Eczema or atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes the skin to become itchy, dry, and irritated. Eczema often begins in childhood and can persist into adulthood, though some people may experience it only temporarily or in specific phases of their life.
Let’s read this article thoroughly to find information about what eczema is, its causes, types, symptoms, and treatment strategies.
What is Eczema?
As mentioned above, eczema is a skin condition characterized by dry and itchy patches that can become red, scaly, and sometimes blistered or crusted. Eczema can manifest differently across individuals, but it generally involves an irritated skin reaction that can affect both light and dark skin tones.
Eczema is not contagious or cannot be spread through contact, but it often has a genetic component. In addition, eczema is a chronic condition that can recur frequently and require ongoing management, as well as affecting comfort, appearance, and self-esteem.
Common Causes and Triggers of Eczema
Eczema is generally caused by genetic factors, environmental irritants, stress, and allergens. Following are the further explanations:
1. Genetic Factors
Genetic factors can contribute to eczema by weakening the skin’s protective barrier. For example, certain genes, like filaggrin, help the skin retain moisture and stay strong against irritants.
When these genes are altered, the skin can become more prone to dryness, irritation, and infection. People with a family history of eczema or similar conditions are more likely to have eczema themselves.
2. Environmental Irritants
Common household items, including soaps, detergents, fragrances, and cleaning products can also irritate sensitive skin and cause eczema flare-ups. Additionally, wool or polyester materials, sudden temperature changes, and certain foods may also act as triggers.
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3. Stress
While emotional stress doesn’t directly cause eczema, it can worsen existing symptoms. Stress triggers the release of chemicals in the body that increase inflammation, which can worsen eczema symptoms, like itching and redness.
4. Allergens
When someone with eczema is exposed to allergens, their immune system mistakenly identifies these harmless substances as threats. This leads to the release of chemicals, like histamines that cause inflammation and irritation in the skin.
For environmental allergens, such as dust mites or pet dander, the immune system’s overreaction can worsen the itching, redness, and dryness typical of eczema. Similarly, food allergens can trigger the same immune response and lead to flare-ups when consumed.
Types of Eczema
There are seven recognized types of eczema, each with unique triggers and symptoms. Here are the explanations:
- Atopic Dermatitis: The skin becomes dry, itchy, and inflamed. It’s linked to an overactive immune system that responds to triggers, like allergens or irritants.
- Contact Dermatitis: Triggered by allergen or contact with irritants, like soaps, chemicals, or even certain metals, and causes redness, itching, and swelling.
- Dyshidrotic Eczema: This type appears on the hands and feet, characterized by small and intensely itchy blisters that are often filled with fluid. It can be triggered by stress, sweating, or exposure to certain metals.
- Nummular Eczema: Identified by round or coin-shaped lesions on the skin, usually due to dry skin or injury.
- Seborrheic Dermatitis: Affects oily areas, like the scalp, causing dandruff and itchy red skin.
- Stasis Dermatitis: Caused by poor blood circulation, leading to skin discoloration, swelling, and itching.
- Neurodermatitis: This type of eczema is characterized by intensely itchy patches that often appear on the neck, wrists, or ankles. The itching is typically worsened by stress or anxiety.
Read also: How to Shave Facial Hair: For Taking Care of Your Beauty
Eczema Treatments
While there is no cure for eczema, the following are some atopic dermatitis treatments that can help manage the symptoms and prevent flare-ups:
- Moisturization: Keeping the skin hydrated is crucial for preventing dryness and reducing itchiness. Emollient creams, ointments, and moisturizers should be applied frequently, especially after bathing.
- Topical Steroids: These creams are prescribed by dermatologists to help reduce inflammation during severe flare-ups. However, prolonged use should be avoided as it can thin the skin and cause other side effects.
- Antihistamines: Oral antihistamines may help alleviate itchiness, especially if it disrupts sleep. These medications, however, are typically a short-term solution.
- Immunosuppressants: In cases of severe eczema, immunosuppressive medications may be prescribed to control the immune system’s overactivity. However, these medications often come with significant side effects and require professional monitoring.
- Avoiding Triggers: Identifying and avoiding individual triggers can help prevent flare-ups. This might involve using hypoallergenic products, avoiding certain fabrics, or maintaining a stable room temperature.
- Stress Management: Some techniques, like mindfulness, exercise, or adequate sleep can help manage stress and may reduce the likelihood of flare-ups.
That was all the explanation about eczema, its causes, types, and treatments. Since eczema makes your skin highly sensitive, it’s important to be extra cautious when caring for it, especially when it comes to hair removal.
Avoid traditional methods, like shaving as it can irritate the skin further. Instead, consider SHR (Super Hair Removal) treatment at Clean & Tidy which uses low heat energy to target hair follicles without damaging the surrounding skin.
With SHR, you can achieve smooth and hair-free skin while minimizing the risk of irritation flare-ups. Reach out to Clean & Tidy Bugis or Orchard Road now to book your Super Hair Removal session and experience the difference for yourself!
Read also: Skincare Tips: What to Do Before & After Laser Hair Removal
