Eczema Treatment: Symptoms, Causes & Effective Management

What Is Eczema?

Eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) is a chronic skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed patches on the skin. While eczema is not contagious, it can cause significant discomfort and flare up due to allergens, irritants, or environmental factors. Although there is no permanent cure, various eczema treatments can help manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups.

Key Facts About Eczema

Affects over 31 million Americans, including 10-20% of infants (many outgrow it).
Linked to genetics, immune system responses, and environmental triggers.
Common symptoms include redness, itching, swelling, and scaly patches.
Can appear anywhere on the body, including the face, hands, elbows, and knees.

Types of Eczema

There are several forms of eczema, each with unique triggers:

• Atopic dermatitis (most common, often starts in childhood).

• Contact dermatitis (caused by irritants like soaps or allergens like nickel).

• Dyshidrotic eczema (small blisters on hands and feet).

• Nummular eczema (coin-shaped patches).

• Seborrheic dermatitis (affects oily areas like the scalp and face).

• Neurodermatitis (thick, scaly patches from excessive scratching).

You can have multiple types simultaneously, making proper diagnosis essential.

Types of Eczema Comparison

Reference: DOI: 10.1177/20406223211002979

Symptoms of Eczema

Eczema symptoms vary but often include:
 Intense itching (worse at night).
 Dry, sensitive skin.
 Red or brownish-gray patches.
 Swelling and inflammation.
 Crusting or oozing (in severe cases).
 Thickened, cracked skin from chronic scratching.

Where Does Eczema Appear?

Common locations:

• Face & cheeks (especially in babies)

• Hands, wrists, and fingers

• Elbows and knees

• Ankles and feet

• Neck and scalp

Less common areas: Nipples, breasts, genitals.

Table 2 – Eczema Symptoms by Age Group

What Causes Eczema?

Eczema results from a combination of genetic and environmental factors:

1. Immune System Overreaction

• The immune system mistakes harmless irritants (like pollen or soap) as threats, triggering inflammation.

2. Genetic Factors

• Family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies increases risk.

• Filaggrin gene mutations weaken the skin barrier, leading to moisture loss.

3. Environmental Triggers

• Dry air, extreme temperatures, pollution.

• Harsh soaps, detergents, fragrances.

• Synthetic fabrics (wool, polyester).

• Stress and hormonal changes.

4. Food Allergies (Less Common)

Some people experience flare-ups after consuming:

• Dairy, eggs, peanuts, soy, wheat.
  (However, not everyone with eczema has food triggers.)

Table 3. Eczema Trigger Identification

How Is Eczema Diagnosed?

A dermatologist can diagnose eczema through:
 Physical examination of the skin.
 Patch testing (to identify allergens).
 Skin biopsy (to rule out other conditions).
 Review of medical & family history.

Best Eczema Treatments & Management

1. Medical Treatments

• Topical Steroids (hydrocortisone, betamethasone) – Reduce inflammation.

• Moisturizers (ceramide-based creams, petroleum jelly) – Repair skin barrier.

• Antihistamines (Benadryl, Zyrtec) – Relieve itching.

• Immunosuppressants (Dupixent, Protopic) – For severe cases.

• Light Therapy (UVB phototherapy) – Helps reduce flare-ups.

2. OTC Products

For mild to moderate eczema, over-the-counter (OTC) products can provide significant relief. Look for these key ingredients when selecting products:

Recommended OTC Ingredients:

• Colloidal oatmeal – Soothes itching and inflammation

• Ceramides – Help restore skin’s protective barrier

• Hyaluronic acid – Boosts moisture retention

• Aloe vera – Calms irritated skin

• Petroleum jelly – Locks in moisture

NellaDerm Eczema Care Products

NellaDerm offers a dermatologist-developed line specifically formulated for eczema-prone skin:

1. NovaNella Eczema Stick 

2. NellaCare (for kids)
3. NellaDerm anti-inflamation Cream 
   

3. Home Remedies & Prevention

– Moisturize daily (apply after bathing).
– Use lukewarm water (avoid hot showers).
– Wear soft, breathable fabrics (cotton).
– Avoid known triggers (fragrances, harsh chemicals).
– Manage stress (yoga, meditation, therapy).
– Use a humidifier in dry climates.

4. Treating Childhood Eczema

• Short, warm baths (not hot).

• Fragrance-free moisturizers after bathing.

• Cotton clothing (avoid wool/synthetics).

• Keep nails short to prevent scratching.

Can Eczema Be Cured?

There is no permanent cure, but symptoms can be effectively managed with:
 Consistent skincare.
 Avoiding triggers.
 Medications when needed.

Many children outgrow eczema, while adults may experience lifelong flare-ups.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical help if you experience:
 Severe itching disrupting sleep.
 Signs of infection (pus, fever, swelling).
 No improvement with over-the-counter eczema treatments.

Final Thoughts

Eczema is a manageable condition with the right treatment plan. By identifying triggers, moisturizing regularly, and using medications, you can reduce flare-ups and improve skin health.

Learn more about eczema treatment: 

1. National Eczema Association (NEA)
   https://nationaleczema.org/
   The leading U.S. nonprofit dedicated to eczema education and research

2. American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) – Eczema Resource Center
   https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/eczema
   Dermatologist-approved eczema treatment guidelines

3. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) – Atopic Dermatitis
   https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/atopic-dermatitis
   NIH’s comprehensive resource on eczema causes and treatments

4. Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) – Eczema Section
   https://www.aafa.org/eczema-atopic-dermatitis/
   Focuses on the connection between eczema and allergies

5. American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI) – Eczema Overview
   https://acaai.org/allergies/allergic-conditions/skin-allergy/eczema/
   Medical perspective on eczema and allergic triggers

6. Eczema Society of Canada
   https://eczemahelp.ca/
   Canadian resource for eczema treatment and support

7. Global Parents for Eczema Research (GPER)
   https://www.gper.org/
   Advocacy group focused on eczema research and treatments

8. National Eczema Society (UK)
   https://eczema.org/
   UK’s leading eczema charity with extensive resources

9. International Eczema Council
   https://www.eczemacouncil.org/
   Global network of eczema experts and clinicians