How to get rid of eczema on the scalp. Salicylic Acid for Scalp Eczema: Effective Treatment Options and Management
How does salicylic acid help treat scalp eczema. What are the potential side effects of using salicylic acid topically. Which other treatment options are available for managing scalp eczema symptoms. How can lifestyle changes help alleviate scalp eczema discomfort.
Understanding Scalp Eczema and Its Symptoms
Scalp eczema, also known as seborrheic dermatitis when it affects the scalp, is a common skin condition characterized by inflammation, dryness, and itchiness. On the scalp, it often manifests as scaly, red patches or areas of skin that appear lighter than the surrounding tissue. Many individuals with scalp eczema also experience dandruff, which can be both uncomfortable and embarrassing.
Seborrheic dermatitis tends to occur in areas where the skin is naturally oily, such as the scalp, face, and upper back. In infants, this condition is referred to as cradle cap. The exact cause of scalp eczema is not fully understood, but factors such as genetics, stress, hormonal changes, and certain medical conditions may contribute to its development.
The Role of Salicylic Acid in Treating Scalp Eczema
Salicylic acid is a well-known keratolytic agent, which means it helps to remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. This property makes it particularly useful in treating scalp eczema and other related conditions. Here’s how salicylic acid works to alleviate symptoms:
- Exfoliation: Salicylic acid helps to break down and remove the outer layer of dead skin cells, reducing scaling and flaking.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: It has mild anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated skin.
- Pore unclogging: By removing dead skin cells, salicylic acid helps to keep pores clear, potentially reducing the risk of further irritation.
When used as directed, salicylic acid can be an effective component in managing scalp eczema symptoms. However, it’s essential to use it properly and be aware of potential side effects.
Proper Application and Usage of Salicylic Acid for Scalp Eczema
To maximize the benefits of salicylic acid for scalp eczema, follow these guidelines:
- Clean the affected area thoroughly before application.
- Apply a thin layer of the product directly to the scalp, avoiding contact with eyes and mouth.
- Gently massage the product into the scalp.
- Leave on for the recommended time, which may vary depending on the specific product.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Use as directed by your healthcare provider or according to product instructions.
It’s important to note that salicylic acid may cause skin dryness or irritation in some individuals. If you experience any adverse reactions, discontinue use and consult your healthcare provider.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions of Salicylic Acid Use
While salicylic acid is generally safe when used as directed, there are some potential side effects and precautions to be aware of:
Common Side Effects:
- Minor skin irritation
- Dryness or peeling of the skin
- Slight changes in skin color (usually temporary whitening)
Serious Side Effects (rare but require immediate medical attention):
- Severe allergic reactions (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat)
- Severe skin irritation or burning
- Headache or ringing in the ears
- Stomach pain, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Dizziness or shortness of breath
Do not use salicylic acid if you are allergic to it or have open wounds, sunburn, or severely irritated skin. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult their healthcare provider before using salicylic acid topically.
Alternative Treatments for Scalp Eczema
While salicylic acid can be effective, there are other treatment options available for managing scalp eczema:
Topical Corticosteroids:
These anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce itching and inflammation. They are available in various strengths and should be used as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Antifungal Treatments:
Since fungal overgrowth can exacerbate scalp eczema, antifungal shampoos or creams containing ingredients like ketoconazole or selenium sulfide may be beneficial.
Coal Tar Products:
Coal tar has been used for decades to treat scalp conditions. It can help slow skin cell growth and reduce inflammation and itching.
Medicated Shampoos:
Shampoos containing zinc pyrithione, salicylic acid, or other active ingredients can help manage symptoms when used regularly.
Lifestyle Changes and Home Remedies for Scalp Eczema Relief
In addition to medical treatments, certain lifestyle modifications and home remedies can help alleviate scalp eczema symptoms:
- Stress management: Practice relaxation techniques, as stress can exacerbate eczema symptoms.
- Gentle hair care: Use mild, fragrance-free shampoos and avoid harsh styling products.
- Avoid hot water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water to prevent further irritation.
- Moisturize: Apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to your scalp to combat dryness.
- Dietary changes: Some individuals find relief by identifying and avoiding trigger foods.
- Humidifier use: Maintaining proper humidity levels can help prevent skin dryness.
Incorporating these lifestyle changes alongside medical treatments can lead to better management of scalp eczema symptoms.
When to Seek Professional Medical Advice for Scalp Eczema
While many cases of scalp eczema can be managed with over-the-counter treatments and lifestyle changes, there are instances when professional medical advice is necessary:
- Symptoms persist or worsen despite home treatment
- The condition interferes with daily activities or sleep
- You experience severe itching or pain
- There are signs of infection, such as oozing, warmth, or fever
- You’re unsure about the diagnosis or appropriate treatment
A dermatologist or healthcare provider can offer a proper diagnosis and recommend a tailored treatment plan for your specific case of scalp eczema.
Preventing Scalp Eczema Flare-Ups: Long-Term Management Strategies
Managing scalp eczema is often an ongoing process. Here are some strategies for long-term management and prevention of flare-ups:
Identify and Avoid Triggers:
Keep a journal to track potential triggers such as stress, certain hair products, or environmental factors that may exacerbate your symptoms.
Maintain a Consistent Hair Care Routine:
Establish a gentle hair care regimen using products suitable for sensitive skin. Avoid frequent washing if it tends to dry out your scalp.
Regular Moisturizing:
Use a scalp-friendly moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated and prevent dryness, which can lead to flare-ups.
Balanced Diet:
Consume a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals to support overall skin health.
Stress Management:
Incorporate stress-reduction techniques into your daily routine, such as meditation, yoga, or regular exercise.
Follow-Up Care:
Maintain regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your condition and adjust treatment as necessary.
By implementing these long-term management strategies, many individuals with scalp eczema can achieve better control over their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Remember that what works for one person may not work for another, so it may take some time to find the most effective combination of treatments and lifestyle changes for your specific case.
Scalp eczema, while often chronic, can be effectively managed with the right approach. Whether using salicylic acid, other topical treatments, or a combination of medical interventions and lifestyle modifications, there are numerous options available to help alleviate symptoms and prevent flare-ups. By working closely with healthcare providers and remaining patient and consistent with treatment, individuals with scalp eczema can find relief and maintain healthier, more comfortable scalps.
Salicylic Acid Topical (Compound W)
Brand Names:Acnevir, Akurza, Aliclen, Bensal HP, CeraVe SA, CeraVe SA Renewing
Reviewed:
Salicylic acid is a keratolytic (peeling agent) that causes shedding of the outer layer of skin.
Salicylic acid topical (for the skin) is used in the treatment of acne, dandruff, seborrhea, or psoriasis, and to remove corns, calluses, and warts.
Salicylic acid topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
uses
What is Salicylic Acid Topical (Compound W) used for?
- Acne
- Dermatological Disorders
warnings
What is the most important information I should know about Salicylic Acid Topical (Compound W)?
You should not use salicylic acid topical if you are allergic to it.
Using this medicine in a child or teenager with flu symptoms or chickenpox can cause a serious or fatal condition called Reye’s syndrome.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have:
- liver or kidney disease;
- diabetes; or
- blood circulation problems.
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Side Effects
What are the side effects of Salicylic Acid Topical (Compound W)?
Salicylic acid topical can cause a rare but serious allergic reaction or severe skin irritation. These reactions may occur just a few minutes after you apply the medicine, or within a day or longer afterward.
Stop using this medicine and get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, itching; difficult breathing, feeling light-headed; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Also stop using salicylic acid topical and call your doctor at once if you have:
- severe headache, ringing in your ears, problems with hearing, thinking problems;
- severe stomach pain, vomiting, or diarrhea;
- a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
- shortness of breath; or
- severe burning, dryness, or irritation of the skin.
Common side effects may include:
- minor skin irritation, rash, or peeling; or
- changes in the color of treated skin (usually whitening).
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Can I take Salicylic Acid Topical (Compound W) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
C
Risk cannot be ruled out
Based on FDA pregnancy categories
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Interactions
What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Salicylic Acid Topical (Compound W)?
Avoid using this medicine on open wounds or on sunburned, windburned, dry, or irritated skin.
Rinse with water if this medicine gets in your eyes or mouth.
This medicine may be flammable. Do not use near high heat or open flame. Wash the medicine off your hands before handling a hair styling appliance (such as a curling or straightening iron). High heat could cause the medicine to ignite and burn your skin. Do not smoke until the gel has completely dried on your skin.
Avoid using other medications on the areas you treat with salicylic acid topical, unless you doctor tells you to.
Dosage Guidelines & Tips
How to take Salicylic Acid Topical (Compound W)?
Use Salicylic Acid Topical (Compound W) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
What should I do if I missed a dose of Salicylic Acid Topical (Compound W)?
Salicylic acid topical is used when needed. If you are on a dosing schedule, skip any missed dose. Do not use two doses at one time.
Overdose Signs
What happens if I overdose on Salicylic Acid Topical (Compound W)?
If you think you or someone else may have overdosed on: Salicylic Acid Topical (Compound W), call your doctor or the Poison Control center
(800) 222-1222
If someone collapses or isn’t breathing after taking Salicylic Acid Topical (Compound W), call 911
911
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Symptoms, treatment, and natural remedies
Eczema can result in inflamed, dry, itchy skin. On the scalp, skin may appear scaly and red, or a lighter color than the surrounding skin. A person may also experience dandruff.
One of the main types of eczema that can affect the scalp is seborrheic dermatitis. It appears in areas where the skin is most oily, such as the scalp, face, and upper back. When seborrheic dermatitis affects babies, it is known as cradle cap.
In this article, we look at risk factors for scalp eczema, how to prevent it, and what treatment involves.
Seborrheic dermatitis is a type of eczema linked with the scalp, though it can appear in other areas with a lot of oil-producing glands in the skin.
Doctors do not fully understand what causes seborrheic dermatitis, but a type of yeast that lives on the skin may be involved. Malassezia, this yeast, exists on everyone’s skin, and it may trigger an immune response in some people. This response leads to the inflammation and itchiness.
Seborrheic dermatitis affects up to 5% of the general population, and slightly more males than females have it. It is common in babies. In adults, it is most common in people aged 40 or over.
Seborrheic dermatitis can resemble dandruff, which is a milder condition that affects up to half of the population.
It is possible for other types of eczema to affect the scalp, including atopic eczema or contact dermatitis. A doctor, such as a dermatologist, can identify the type.
Certain factors can make people more prone to seborrheic dermatitis. These include:
- having oily skin
- being male
- living in a dry or cold environment
- having a condition that weakens the immune system, such as HIV
- having a neurological condition, such as Parkinson’s disease
- having certain mental health conditions, such as depression or an eating disorder
- taking certain medications, such as lithium, dopamine antagonists, or immunosuppressants
The following might trigger a flare-up of this type of eczema:
- stress
- lack of sleep
- sweating
- irritants
- dry skin
People can usually tell the difference between eczema and dandruff by looking for visible signs of inflammation. Both eczema and dandruff can cause flaky skin and itchiness, but only eczema typically causes inflamed patches of skin.
Researchers think that dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis are part of the same disease process and that both are related to the presence of Malassezia fungus on the scalp.
Research from 2015 argues that the two exist on a continuum, with dandruff is on the milder end and seborrheic dermatitis causing more severe symptoms.
Scalp eczema causes patches of itchy, inflamed, dry skin. The patches may change in shape and size over time.
People with seborrheic dermatitis may also have:
- patches of waxy or oily skin
- skin that flakes off
- yellow or red discoloration, in people with lighter skin tones
- skin that is darker or lighter than the surrounding area, in people with deeper skin tones
The condition typically appears in areas with a lot of oil-producing glands. A person with seborrheic dermatitis on their scalp may also have it in other areas that produce oil, such as the:
- nose
- eyelids
- eyebrows
- ear canal
- area behind the ears
- upper back
Even after the rash heals, any color changes may last.
The best approach depends on the type of eczema a person has. For seborrheic dermatitis, treatment involves using topical products that reduce the growth of the yeast, calm inflammation, and remove the flakiness.
The first step involves skin care, and a dermatologist can describe how to keep the scalp clean and hydrated. Replacing any harsh shampoos with gentle, pH-balanced ones may reduce irritation, for example.
Next, the doctor may recommend an antifungal cream, spray, or scalp treatment. This may contain a combination of:
- zinc pyrithione
- salicylic acid
- selenium sulfide
- ketoconazole
- ciclopirox
- sulfacetamide
- coal tar
- sulfur
For more severe cases, a mild corticosteroid can calm the inflammation. A doctor may prescribe a topical corticosteroid, which goes on the skin, to treat an active flare-up that causes severe pain, itching, and flaking. Corticosteroids are not suitable for use over long periods, however.
A doctor may also prescribe a topical medication that suppresses the immune system. These products do not contain corticosteroids and a person can use them for longer periods. For very severe cases, doctors may prescribe an oral antifungal medication.
For babies with cradle cap, mineral oil can help loosen the flakes so that they fall off with gentle washing. Usually, this is all that is necessary. The condition often improves on its own after a few months.
In adults, seborrheic dermatitis can come and go for long periods and require managing to reduce flare-ups.
Many prescription products for seborrheic dermatitis contain ingredients that people can purchase over the counter, such as:
- coal tar, which reduces itching
- sulfur, an antibacterial mineral
- salicylic acid, a compound that naturally occurs in plants and exfoliates flaky skin
Many over-the-counter scalp treatments contain these substances.
Also, some research shows that daily use of a 5% tea tree oil shampoo can significantly improve mild-to-moderate symptoms without causing side effects. However, less research has gone into this approach.
People should never use essential oils undiluted on the skin. Also do not use these oils at all to treat eczema in children or babies.
There is no single test for scalp eczema. The yeasts that play a role in seborrheic dermatitis occur naturally on everyone’s scalp, so testing for these will not help.
Instead, a doctor does a physical examination and takes the person’s medical history. They may diagnose eczema based on the symptoms alone, or they may perform tests to rule out other possibilities, such as an allergic reaction.
The specific symptoms can also reveal the type of eczema.
If a doctor suspects a fungal infection, they may take a skin scraping and send it for analysis.
Since experts are not sure exactly why scalp eczema develops, they cannot recommend a surefire method of prevention.
Still, a person can reduce the chances of the condition flaring up by:
- avoiding contact with harsh soaps, chemicals, or solvents
- protecting the head in cold or dry weather
- using a humidifier to make indoor air less dry
- washing the scalp after exercise and other activities that cause sweating
- reducing and managing stress levels
- receiving treatment for any medical conditions that increase the risk of seborrheic dermatitis
If a medication may be contributing to scalp eczema, a doctor can describe the next steps.
Seborrheic dermatitis is a type of eczema that tends to affect the scalp. Doctors believe that it results from an immune system reaction to a type of yeast that naturally grows on the skin. Seborrheic dermatitis causes one or more patches of itchy, flaky skin, which may feel oily.
Treatment may involve using topical creams, sprays, or shampoos that contain antifungal and anti-inflammatory ingredients.
Because other types of eczema can also occur on the scalp, it is important to get a diagnosis. The doctor can also rule out other conditions that can cause an inflamed or flaky rash, such as psoriasis.
Read the article in Spanish.
causes, what it looks like, types, stages, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment
Causes
Classification
Symptoms
Complications
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prevention and prognosis
Eczema is an inflammation of the skin of a non-infectious nature. Among the main manifestations are redness and itchy blisters that contain fluid. May become chronic. The name “eczema” comes from the word “boil”, and it came from the fact that the bubbles in this disease are similar to those that appear in boiling water.
Eczema can occur on the hands, feet, face. The disease can appear regardless of age and gender, but women are more susceptible to it. The reasons for this are unknown, perhaps it is due to the hormonal background or more frequent contact with household chemicals. Most often it has a professional nature: when the skin is constantly exposed to chemicals, allergens, especially against the background of a weakened immune system.
Eczema is not contagious and is not transmitted to other people, since microorganisms do not participate in its development.
Causes and triggers
It is now established that the cause of eczema is primarily hidden in genetics: a predisposition to it is inherited. If one of the parents has this disease, then the probability of its occurrence in children is up to 40%, and if two parents have it, up to 60%.
With a large number of synthetic substances in the modern world, from household chemicals to food additives, as well as allergens, stress, the likelihood of eczema with a genetic predisposition is very high. Moreover, in such cases, severe forms often occur, which are difficult to treat and give complications.
However, in order for the disease to manifest itself even with a predisposition, the influence of some predisposing factors is required, including:
If a person has any of the above, this does not guarantee manifestations of eczema. However, some factors can cause its appearance at any time, for example, hypothermia, trauma with skin damage, alcohol consumption, contact with chemicals, including cosmetics, or those that are part of food, severe stress and anxiety.
The disease begins when an autoimmune reaction is triggered, that is, the body produces antibodies against skin cells. This occurs when several factors are combined at once: predisposition, contact with chemicals, the action of antigens from chronic infectious foci, against the background of a decrease in immunity. As a result of autoimmune processes, inflammation appears on the skin with characteristic watery vesicles.
Classification
There are different forms of eczema that can vary greatly, and here are a few of the most common:
- True. It usually appears on the face and limbs. The affected areas of uneven shape alternate with healthy ones, have vesicular vesicles, papules, pustules. The skin turns red, weeping erosions form on it. In the chronic form, the skin coarsens, becomes dry, abscesses may appear when combed erosions become infected.
- Nummular or nummular eczema. It is provoked mainly by allergic reactions and chronic infectious processes in the oral cavity or respiratory system. It looks like coin-shaped plaques 1-3 cm in diameter, with vesicles, areas of wetting, crusts. In women, it usually occurs during puberty, and in men – closer to 60 years.
- Microbial eczema. Usually occurs around infected wounds or areas of pyoderma. May have a different shape with a clear border. In the center, purulent or serous crusts appear, when peeled off, areas of weeping are exposed. Itching is strongly pronounced, which provokes infection of the affected areas.
- seborrheic eczema. It starts on the head under the hair, in places where the sebaceous glands accumulate. Then it moves to other areas of the body. The skin is hyperemic, edematous, with yellow papules and covered with yellow crusts.
- Varicose eczema. It develops against the background of varicose veins, on the legs, near varicose ulcers. Severe itching is characteristic.
- sycosiform form. It is formed during infection and inflammation of the hair follicles and spreads beyond the hairline. It occurs on the face, under the armpits, on the pubis. This form is characterized by weeping and severe itching.
- Dyshidrotic eczema. It affects the skin of the palms and feet, where hyperemic areas appear with small bubbles containing liquid.
- Professional. Occurs due to the influence of production factors. Usually this is frequent contact with allergens – chemicals, antibiotics, metals. It often happens to those who often immerse their hands in water: dishwashers, cooks, cleaners, orderlies. It manifests itself in the contact zone as true eczema and disappears if the irritating factor is removed, for example, to change jobs.
- Dry eczema. It usually appears in older people on the background of too dry skin. Usually affects the hands or feet, and not only the epidermis, but also the dermis. It is manifested by redness, the formation of papules, peeling, ulcers. Severe itching, soreness, burning sensation are characteristic.
Eczema in children also occurs, children from the age of 3 months can get sick. In them, the disease can affect any area of \u200b\u200bthe head, except for the nasolabial triangle, as well as the buttocks and limbs.
The disease goes through several stages of development: first there is hyperemia of the skin, itching, then papules form, then vesicles with fluid and weeping when they open. This is the stage of weeping eczema, when infection of the affected skin is possible. Then these areas dry up and crusts form. Further, the crusts are exfoliated, the skin is restored.
Symptoms
Symptoms of different forms of eczema are somewhat different, but they are also characterized by common manifestations:
- skin redness, swelling;
- the formation of vesicles with vesicular contents;
- severe itching.
Also, this pathology is characterized by the opening of vesicles and the formation of crusts, under which areas of weeping are noticeable. At the stage of recovery, these crusts begin to peel off.
Complications
Pathology can be complicated by the addition of an infection. Then the affected areas can fester and symptoms of intoxication will appear, with an increase in temperature and a deterioration in well-being. Infection can cause ulceration of the skin, which can visibly damage a person’s appearance.
The most dangerous complication is erythroderma, when inflammation covers 90% of the skin. This disease has a high mortality rate.
Diagnosis
To diagnose eczema, a dermatologist conducts an examination and questioning whether a person has relatives with this disease, allergic reactions, and type of activity. Skin hyperemia, erosion, gray crusts and weeping allow a preliminary diagnosis, but some research may be required.
Among them:
- biochemical blood test;
- blood test for immunoglobulin E;
- sowing discharge to identify microorganisms and determine their sensitivity to antibiotics – to exclude the microbial form and treat secondary infections.
You may also need to consult other specialists: an endocrinologist, a gastroenterologist, a psychoneurologist.
Treatment
For the treatment of eczema, an individual approach is required, since it is necessary first of all to eliminate provoking factors. A hypoallergenic diet is prescribed, with the exception of foods such as fish, fatty meats, cocoa and coffee, citrus fruits, and legumes.
If the disease is caused by external factors, they should be eliminated: move to a more environmentally friendly place, change jobs, exclude contact with disease-provoking factors, including at home.
The following drugs are also used to treat eczema:
- antihistamines – to reduce itching;
- desensitizing – to stop inflammation and normalize metabolic processes in the skin;
- glucocorticosteroids – with volumetric weeping eczema or the absence of results from treatment with other drugs;
- antibiotics – if a microbial form is detected or a secondary infection has joined.
Immunostimulating drugs may also be prescribed to increase the body’s defenses. Along the way, the therapy of the underlying disease should be carried out, if this has been detected, and first of all, the pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract. It is possible to prescribe sedatives to normalize the central nervous system.
Lotions with astringents can be used locally – this accelerates the formation of crusts and their drying. Ointments and creams for eczema based on corticosteroids and antiseptics have also proven effective.
Prevention and prognosis
With proper and timely treatment, after a few days, itching and inflammation are noticeably reduced. Recovery occurs in 3-4 weeks, so the prognosis for uncomplicated forms of eczema is favorable. In the complicated form, it depends on the accompanying problems and the possibilities for their treatment.
Prevention of eczema requires good hygiene and avoid contact with allergens. Proper skin care is also important – keeping it clean, using emollients and moisturizers, but damage and the use of harsh products should be avoided.
The author of the article:
Shapovalova Valeria Olegovna
cosmetologist, dermatologist, trichologist
work experience 4 years
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Treatment of eczema | Dobromed
What is eczema? ”, and is an excellent description of one of the symptoms of this disease – a rash that resembles bubbles of boiling water.
Symptoms of eczema
Eczema is characterized by sudden exacerbations and remissions. Today, for example, she can suddenly and in every sense clearly declare herself, and in a few weeks her symptoms will completely and completely disappear. In children, eczema can appear on the face, chin or chest. In adults, it is more often seen on the neck, elbows, inside of the palms and under the knees. At the same time, eczema is very capricious and can manifest itself anywhere and anytime. It is not at all necessary that, having appeared once, say, on the elbow, it will continue to affect this part of the body. Despite the fact that the typical manifestations of eczema are redness and a rash that causes burning and itching, this disease is very diverse and can manifest itself with a variety of symptoms. Here are just a few of them: painful reddening of the skin with characteristic itching; a blistering rash that can get “wet” and peel off; mild to moderate itching, which in some cases can turn into severe inflammation of the skin; dry, cracked, scaly or keratinized skin; yellow scales on the eyebrows and scalp. When diagnosing eczema, it is important to remember that its symptoms are very individual, each person will have their own. You may have one symptom of this disease, or all together. And it is not at all necessary that the same type of eczema will have the same manifestation pattern in two different patients. The only way to know for sure if your skin problems are eczema is to make an appointment with a dermatologist.
Types of eczema
Today it is difficult to identify a single classification of eczema. Its forms are usually determined depending on the location, nature and nature of occurrence. There are 5 most common forms of this disease.
Atopic dermatitis
The terms “eczema” and “atopic dermatitis” are often used interchangeably, but this is not entirely correct. Atopic dermatitis is a severe, chronic and often relapsing form of eczema that is most often caused by a genetic predisposition. Atopic dermatitis is characterized by dry, cracked, scaly skin accompanied by redness and itching. This type of eczema most often appears on the folds of the arms, legs, neck, and also in the chest area. The reasons for its appearance can be very different, from changing seasons to allergies to powder and soap. Stress and food allergies can also trigger this ailment.
Contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a type of eczema that appears as a red dry rash that makes the skin slightly swollen and causes unbearable itching. As a rule, a rash occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or substance, which, due to the individual characteristics of each person, can cause an allergic reaction. From the moment of contact with the allergen and before the onset of symptoms, it can take a matter of minutes or days. The most common triggers for allergic contact dermatitis are shower gels, shampoos, soaps, laundry detergents, cosmetics, and even jewelry. This list also includes detergents, bleaches, disinfectants, as well as various fertilizers and pesticides.
True eczema
True or, as it is also called, idiomatic, eczema is a classic form of manifestation of the disease. It is rather difficult to establish the specific cause of its occurrence. It occurs sporadically and for no apparent reason. Most often, this eczema manifests itself in the form of small nodules of a rash filled with a clear liquid. Subsequently, they can turn into weeping erosions, overgrow with crusts, scales and be accompanied by unpleasant sensations of burning and itching. If all of these eczema symptoms appear at the same time, doctors diagnose true eczema. In addition, this type of eczema is characterized by a symmetrical rash. If rashes, say, appeared on one arm, they often occur on the second.
Seborrheic eczema
Seborrheic eczema tends to occur on areas of the skin rich in sebaceous glands. Although seborrheic eczema most commonly affects the scalp, it can appear in and around the ears, on the eyebrows, nose, back, between the shoulder blades, and on the upper chest. This type of eczema appears as greasy yellow or white scales. Although seborrheic eczema is a chronic condition, long-term remission can be achieved with adequate treatment.
Microbial eczema
Microbial eczema is an allergic reaction of the body that occurs against the background of a weakened immune system when the skin is chronically infected with bacteria, most often staphylococci or streptococci. As a rule, microbial eczema occurs in places of cuts, abrasions and wounds that do not heal for a long time and manifests itself in the form of large inflamed areas covered with scaly skin, purulent crusts or weeping erosion. Despite the fact that microbial eczema can occur on any part of the skin, even on the head, it still most often appears on the hands and feet.
Causes of eczema
Contrary to popular belief, eczema is not an infectious disease and therefore cannot be contracted. Although the exact cause of eczema is not known, it is believed that it may be caused by an overly sensitive immune system to certain external stimuli, which manifests itself in inflammation of the skin in the form of redness, rashes and itching. Research also suggests that some people with eczema have a mutation in the gene responsible for making filaggrin, a protein that helps maintain a healthy protective barrier of the epidermis. Without enough filaggrin, the skin begins to lose moisture, dry out and crack, thereby opening the gate for bacteria and viruses. As a result, many people with eczema have very dry skin that is prone to frequent infections. Most experts agree that eczema is caused by a combination of internal and external causes – an oversensitive immune system and triggers, which may include, but are not limited to, the following factors: genetic predisposition; disruption of the endocrine system of the body; disruption of the gastrointestinal tract; an allergic reaction to pathogens of fungal and bacterial infections; allergic reaction to the use of household chemicals; taking certain medications; an allergic reaction to a number of foods; house dust mite; stress; hypothermia, overheating and the negative effects of ultraviolet radiation. © vostock-photo
Treatment and prevention of eczema
Since eczema is a chronic disease, it is impossible to get rid of it once and for all. The key to maintaining health lies in relieving and preventing symptoms. Specific treatments for each patient are selected individually, based on the symptoms and type of eczema. As a rule, dermatologists recommend using moisturizing creams, antihistamines, and, if necessary, topical corticosteroids to eliminate symptoms that have already appeared. In some cases, light therapy can be a good helper in the treatment of eczema. To prevent eczema, it is necessary, if possible, to identify and eliminate external triggers that initially provoked its appearance. However, do not forget that for each person eczema manifests itself in its own way, respectively, and the external processes that trigger its appearance are different for everyone. When trying to identify the trigger of eczema, remember that sometimes it appears only after a while after external exposure, and tracking it can sometimes be problematic. Therefore, in order to minimize the risk of eczema, you need to make some adjustments to your lifestyle. People prone to inflammation of the epidermis are not recommended to overdry the skin, they should drink plenty of water, do not abuse the hot bath and shower, and use household chemicals with caution.