Eczema

Eczema refers to a number of conditions that cause red, irritated, and itchy skin. At kalon Dermatology in Staten Island and the Sheepshead Bay neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York, the experienced providers first determine the cause of your eczema so they can create a plan that clears up your skin in the shortest time possible. For expert eczema care, call the office or schedule your consultation online today. 

What is eczema?

Eczema is a general medical term used to describe irritated, inflamed, and itchy skin. It’s a common condition that comes in many types and causes varying symptoms. 

You can develop eczema at any age, but it usually first appears during infancy or childhood. The skin condition may come and go, but it’s a chronic skin disease. People with a history of hay fever or asthma are more likely to have eczema.

Treatment for eczema focuses on reducing flare-ups. 

What are some of the types of eczema?

Eczema types have different triggers and symptoms. Some of the common types of eczema include:

Atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a long-term skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and scaly skin. This type develops when there’s a breakdown in your skin’s barrier function, making it more sensitive to outside elements. 

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis causes a red, itchy rash after your skin comes in contact with an allergen or irritant. Poison ivy is a type of contact dermatitis.

Dyshidrotic eczema

People with dyshidrotic eczema develop blisters and itchy skin. Researchers theorize that this type of eczema results from allergies or stress. 

Neurodermatitis

Neurodermatitis, also called lichen simplex chronicus, causes a cycle of itching and scratching on a patch of skin. The itch is intense, making it hard to stop scratching.

Nummular eczema

Nummular eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes coin-shaped welts on the skin that ooze fluid. Allergies, infections, and dry skin may cause this type of eczema.

Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis causes dry, flaky skin on the scalp, leading to dandruff. 

What happens during an eczema evaluation?

Your provider at kalon Dermatology understands the many types of eczema and completes a thorough evaluation so you get an accurate diagnosis.

Your provider may take a skin biopsy to confirm or rule out a diagnosis. They may also do skin allergy testing to identify the cause of your flare-ups. 

What are the treatments for eczema?

kalon Dermatology takes an individualized approach to skin care, customizing your eczema plan based on type and severity of symptoms. Treatment may include:

• Corticosteroid creams 
• Antibiotics for bacterial infections
• Antihistamines for allergies
• Topical calcineurin inhibitors to improve skin barrier function
• Phototherapy
• Regular warm baths
• Daily skin moisturizing
• Using mild soaps and detergents

Your provider also talks to you about your eczema triggers and the steps you can take to avoid them.

To determine the best approach to care, call kalon Dermatology or schedule your eczema appointment online today.