Eczema
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Bay Ridge Dermatology
Dermatology and Laser Specialists located in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, NY
If your skin is dry, red, and itchy, you may have eczema. As experts in skin health, the team at Bay Ridge Dermatology in the Bay Ridge area of Brooklyn, New York, can diagnose your eczema and provide treatment to help reduce your breakouts. Call today or request an appointment using the request appointment button.
Eczema Q & A
What is eczema?
Eczema is a type of skin condition that causes red, itchy, inflamed skin that’s very common in children, but can occur in adults too. Eczema is a chronic skin condition that may worsen over time.
You may be more likely to develop eczema if it runs in your family. Environmental factors, such as harsh soaps, may also lead to the development of this uncomfortable skin condition.
How do I know if I have eczema?
Eczema symptoms vary and it may be difficult to self-diagnose, so the team at Bay Ridge Dermatology conducts a thorough examination to diagnose your condition. Special testing usually isn’t necessary to diagnose eczema, but it may be recommended to rule out another cause of your rash.
Common symptoms of eczema include:
- Itchy skin that gets worse at night
- Dry skin
- Red or gray patches of skin on the hands, feet, chest, inside the elbows or knees
- Thick, cracked, scaly skin
Due to scratching, you may also experience redness and swelling. Eczema usually appears before age five and continues throughout your lifetime, although you can go years without a breakout.
How is eczema treated?
Due to the variations in this skin condition, it may take some trial and error to find the perfect treatment to help improve your skin health. The team at Bay Ridge Dermatology works closely with you to help determine the best plan.
Some common treatments include:
- Topical ointments
- Oral medication
- Draping the affected areas with antibiotic-treated bandages
Bay Ridge Dermatology also offers light therapy with the XTRAC® laser, which helps reduce inflammation and clear up your skin. For best results, the team recommends 2-3 treatments a week for a total of 10-12 treatments over the course of four weeks.
What can I do at home to reduce breakouts?
In addition to medical treatment, the team at Bay Ridge Dermatology also recommends you take steps at home to help improve your skin health and reduce eczema flare-ups.
This includes moisturizing your skin and using anti-itching creams or medication to help reduce the urge to scratch. The team also recommends using hypoallergenic body soaps and laundry detergents.
For eczema treatment, call today or request an appointment online.
