Atopic Dermatitis/Eczema
Eczema Treatment: Relief for Itchy, Irritated Skin
Eczema is a common skin condition that causes itchy, inflamed rashes that can appear dry, flaky, or even weepy. It can affect people of all ages and often flares up due to environmental triggers, allergies, or sensitive skin.
There are several types of eczema, including:
- Atopic dermatitis (the most common form)
- Contact dermatitis (triggered by allergens or irritants)
- Hand eczema
- Asteatotic eczema (linked to dry skin, often in older adults)
At Total Dermatology, we understand how uncomfortable and frustrating eczema can be—especially when it disrupts your daily life. Our providers take a personalized approach to eczema treatment, helping you identify triggers, soothe symptoms, and strengthen your skin barrier over time.
If you’re dealing with ongoing itchiness, flares, or skin sensitivity, we’re here to help you get lasting relief and healthier skin. Find relief for dry, itchy, irritated skin — request an appointment today
Causes
The exact cause of eczema isn’t fully understood, but it’s believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. If you have a family history of eczema, allergies, or asthma, you may be more likely to develop the condition.
Common eczema triggers include:
- Pollen and pet dander
- Harsh soaps and skincare products
- Chemical or environmental irritants
- Certain foods
- Stress and sudden weather changes
These triggers can weaken the skin barrier, leading to flare-ups of itching, redness, and irritation.
Our providers work with you to identify what’s causing your eczema flares and develop a tailored treatment plan that helps restore and protect your skin.
Treatments
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Eczema Type
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Common Symptoms
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Treatment Options
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Atopic Dermatitis
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Itchy, stubborn rash; common in those with allergies or asthma
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Topical steroids - Oral antihistamines - Immune modulators (topical/oral) - Systemic steroids - Antibiotics - Phototherapy
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Hand Eczema
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Dry, cracked, painful hands; may interfere with daily activities
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-Topical steroids - Systemic steroids - Immune modulators - Phototherapy - Systemic retinoids
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Asteatotic Eczema
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Very dry, inflamed skin that appears cracked or flaky
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Topical steroids - Thick, fragrance-free moisturizers
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Contact Dermatitis
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Rash triggered by allergens (e.g., poison ivy) or irritants
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Topical steroids - Systemic steroids (for severe reactions)
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Dyshidrotic Eczema
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Small, itchy blisters on hands, feet, fingers, or toes
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Topical steroids - Systemic steroids - Immune modulators - Antihistamines - Phototherapy - Oral medications (as needed)
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Note: All treatment plans at Total Dermatology are tailored to the individual. Your provider will recommend the best combination of therapies based on your symptoms, skin type, and medical history.
Types of Eczema
Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic form of eczema that causes a stubborn, itchy rash—often in people with sensitive skin or a family history of allergies. It’s most common in children, typically beginning in the first five years of life, and is frequently seen in families affected by asthma, hay fever, sinus issues, or other forms of eczema.
While some children may outgrow atopic dermatitis during adolescence, others continue to experience flare-ups into adulthood. Managing this condition early with the right skincare and medical treatment can help reduce long-term irritation and improve quality of life.
Hand Eczema
Hand eczema is a common and often stubborn skin condition that can range from mild dryness to painful, cracked, and inflamed skin. It may be triggered by irritants, allergens, frequent handwashing, or underlying skin sensitivity. Without proper hand eczema treatment, symptoms can become chronic and interfere with daily activities like washing, working, or even sleeping.
Asteatotic Eczema
Asteatotic eczema, also known as eczema craquelé, is a type of dry skin eczema that often appears as red, itchy, cracked skin—sometimes resembling a dry, cracked lake bed. It commonly affects the arms, legs, and torso, especially in older adults or during colder months when skin loses moisture.
Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a type of skin rash that occurs when your skin reacts to an allergen or irritant—like poison ivy, poison oak, certain soaps, metals, or chemicals. It typically shows up as red, itchy, and sometimes blistered skin in the area that came into contact with the trigger.
Dyshidrosis or Dyshidrotic Eczema
Dyshidrotic eczema is a chronic, often inherited form of eczema that causes small, intensely itchy blisters to appear on the fingers, hands, toes, or feet. These blisters can be painful, peel, and may return in recurring flare-ups—especially during times of stress or seasonal changes.