How Dermatologists Treat Eczema

Summary

In this video, Dr. Heather Rogers and Dr. Carly Roman discuss eczema, emphasizing that there is no cure for this chronic skin condition. They explain that eczema can improve over time but may be triggered by stress, cold weather, and irritants. The dermatologists advise on managing eczema in children, recommending gentle skincare and the use of ointments like Aquaphor, but caution against potential allergens. They also highlight the importance of using products that are safe for sensitive skin and the role of the National Eczema Association in reviewing such products. Tips for adults include moisturizing, reducing showers, and using fragrance-free products.

Takeaways

• 🚫 Eczema has no cure: It is a chronic condition that can improve but does not completely disappear.
• 🔄 Fluctuating condition: Eczema symptoms can ebb and flow, with periods of remission and flare-ups influenced by factors like stress and weather.
• 🛡️ Skin barrier dysfunction: The skin's barrier is compromised, allowing irritants to penetrate and cause inflammation, perpetuating the cycle of eczema.
• 👶 Gentle care for children: For pediatric eczema, focus on educating parents about using gentle soaps and moisturizers, and avoiding irritants.
• 🚿 Avoid harsh practices: Long, hot showers and the use of fragranced products can strip the skin of moisture, aggravating eczema.
• 💊 Topical steroids: When used correctly, topical steroids can help calm inflammation and restore the skin barrier, but they should not be feared.
• 🌱 Plant-based alternatives: Products like Dr. Rogers Restore Healing Balm offer plant-based alternatives to traditional ointments, which can be beneficial for eczema-prone skin.
• 🛑 Avoid common irritants: Products containing lanolin, like Aquaphor, can cause allergic reactions and worsen eczema symptoms in some individuals.
• 🧴 Ointments over creams: For eczema, ointments that form a protective barrier, like petroleum jelly or plant-based options, are often more effective than creams.
• 🏠 Home care tips: Simple home care practices such as shorter showers, moisturizing immediately after bathing, and using a humidifier can help manage eczema.

Q & A

What is the primary message from Dr. Heather Rogers and Dr. Carly Roman about eczema?

The primary message is that eczema is a chronic condition with no cure. It can improve over time, but it's something that can ebb and flow throughout a person's life.

Why is there no cure for eczema according to the dermatologists?

There is no cure for eczema because the skin isn't functioning at the capacity it should be, allowing irritants and weather conditions to impact it and not functioning well to keep out irritants.

How does eczema typically present in children?

Eczema often presents in children at a young age, during early childhood or infancy. It can improve over time, with some people seemingly 'growing out of it,' but it can still flare up.

What is the recommended approach for managing eczema in children?

For children, the approach involves parent education, using gentle soaps and moisturizers, avoiding irritants like fragrances and wool clothing, and using steroids appropriately when necessary.

Why are steroids sometimes necessary for eczema treatment?

Steroids are necessary when there is significant inflammation that needs to be calmed down. They help to settle the skin barrier when it's compromised.

What is the role of ointments in treating eczema?

Ointments, like greasy ointments or petroleum-based ones, play a role in preventing water loss from the skin and hydrating the skin barrier.

Why might Dr. Rogers recommend against using products like Aquaphor for eczema?

Dr. Rogers recommends against using Aquaphor because it contains lanolin, which can be an irritant or cause contact allergies, potentially worsening the skin barrier.

What are some alternative treatments or products suggested for eczema management?

Alternatives include using petroleum-based ointments like Vaseline, which is simple and doesn't contain potentially irritating additives, or plant-based options like Dr. Rogers' Restore Healing Balm.

How does stress impact eczema, as mentioned in the context of an adult's sudden eczema flare-up?

Stress can play a role in eczema flare-ups by potentially exacerbating the condition. It's one of the factors, along with cold dry weather, that can cause the skin to become more irritated.

What advice do the dermatologists give for adults dealing with a new eczema patch?

For adults with a new eczema patch, the advice includes potentially using an ointment to seal and repair the skin barrier, avoiding harsh soaps or scrubbing, and maintaining a gentle skincare routine.

What resources are available for individuals seeking more information on eczema-safe products?

The National Eczema Association is a resource that reviews products and provides recommendations for those that are gentle enough for eczema-prone skin.