Eczema

Eczema is a general term that refers to red, itchy skin. There are many types of eczema, each causing specific symptoms. Shannon Tumblin, ARPN, Kristy Anderson, ARPN, and the Island Aesthetics & Dermatology team specialize in diagnosing and treating all types of eczema. To get help with your red, itchy rash, call the office in Coupeville, Washington, or book an appointment online today.

What is eczema?

Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition. Though symptoms vary, eczema starts as itchy skin that leads to dry skin, scaly patches, blisters, or an infection. 

You may go through periods of remission (no rash) and flare-ups (rash) with eczema. The severity and frequency of your flare-ups may vary, but you can go years without any problems. 

Currently, there’s no cure for eczema, and the goal of treatment is to reduce the severity and frequency of your flare-ups.

What are the types of eczema?

There are seven types of eczema. They include:

Atopic dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema. With this type, you may have dry, inflamed, itchy patches of skin. 

Contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis causes inflammation and itching after your skin comes in contact with an allergen or irritating substance. Poison ivy is an example of contact dermatitis.

Dyshidrotic eczema
With dyshidrotic eczema, you develop dry, burning skin that leads to a rash with blisters.

Neurodermatitis
Neurodermatitis causes small areas of itchy, scaly skin.

Nummular eczema
With nummular eczema, you develop coin-shaped red rashes all over the body. 

Seborrheic dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis causes dry, inflamed skin on the scalp.

Stasis dermatitis
Stasis dermatitis causes thick, discolored skin around the ankles due to problems with circulation through the veins in the legs. 

What happens during an eczema evaluation?

The team at Island Aesthetics & Dermatology takes an individualized approach to care. The specifics of your eczema evaluation depend on the type and severity of your eczema.

Your provider reviews your symptoms, medical history, and family history. They examine your skin and may take a tissue sample to confirm or rule out the cause of your skin condition. 

What are the treatments for eczema?

The Island Aesthetics & Dermatology team customizes your eczema treatment plan based on the severity and frequency of your flare-ups and the type of eczema you have. Treatment for your eczema may include:

• Over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription cortisone creams
• Bathing treatments (bath oil, baking soda, oatmeal bath)
• Wet wraps
• Antibiotics
• Skin barrier creams
• Skin moisturizers
• Light therapy
• Biologics

The team also helps you identify your eczema triggers, such as a skin irritant or allergen, weather change, or stress. 

To get help with your eczema, call Island Aesthetics & Dermatology or schedule an appointment online today.