Dermatitis (Eczema)

Dermatitis, also known as eczema, is an inflammatory skin condition characterized by pink to red itchy rashes. It can be acute or chronic depending on the duration and progression. Acute dermatitis typically presents with red patches, swelling, and fluid-filled blisters, while chronic dermatitis is marked by thickened, darkened skin (lichenification) and persistent scratch marks due to long-term irritation.

Prevention Tips

Individuals with dry or sensitive skin should avoid irritants such as harsh soaps, detergents, rough fabrics, greasy creams, dust mites, carpets, and animal fur.

• Use gentle, non-allergenic skincare products.
• Choose loose-fitting clothing to minimize skin irritation.

Skin Management Tips

• Limit frequent bathing: Shower no more than twice daily to help retain skin moisture. Avoid long hot showers.
• Pat dry after bathing: Gently pat your skin with a towel and apply moisturizer while the skin is still damp.
• Use mild detergent for laundry: Avoid bleach and fabric softeners.
• Avoid scratching: Scratching worsens inflammation, darkens the skin, and increases the risk of bacterial infections.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if:

• The rash persists despite proper care and medication.
• It appears acutely with severe pain or covers an extensive area.
• Itching is intense with cracked, bleeding, blistering, or painful dry skin.
• Signs of infection such as pus or weeping wounds develop.

Treatment Options

1. Moisturizers and Skin Barrier Protectants

Regular use of moisturizers helps prevent flare-ups and supports other treatments like corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors.
Examples of beneficial ingredients include:

• Emollients: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Calendula Oil, Ceramide, Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, Urea, Shea Butter, Squalane

• Anti-inflammatory compounds: Palmitoylethanolamide, Glycyrrhetinic Acid

• Natural plant extracts: Vitis Vinifera (Grape Seed Extract) combined with glycyrrhetinic acid and telmesteine are helpful steroid-free options for daily maintenance in children 6 months and older.

Application: Use as needed. Apply a thin layer in the direction of hair growth. Test for allergies before prolonged use.

2. Topical Corticosteroids

Effective for reducing inflammation and itching.

• Use low to medium potency for mild symptoms. Apply once or twice daily until symptoms resolve.
• Wait 15–20 minutes after moisturizing before application.
• Use high-potency only for severe flares and under medical supervision.

  Dosage Guide:Fingertip Units(FTU) method.

3. Antihistamines

Helps reduce itching and allergic responses.

First-generation antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine, Chlorpheniramine):

• Cause drowsiness and dry mouth
• Avoid use while driving or operating machinery

Second-generation antihistamines (e.g., Cetirizine, Loratadine, Fexofenadine):

• Less sedating
• Avoid alcohol during use

4. Immunosuppressants

Cyclosporine: Used when topical treatments are ineffective; suitable only for short-term use due to potential side effects (e.g., high blood pressure, kidney issues).

5. Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors

Tacrolimus and Pimecrolimus:

• Non-steroidal immunomodulator for sensitive skin
• Use twice daily for up to 2–6 weeks
• May cause stinging initially
• Avoid use on pre-cancerous or sun-exposed skin for long durations

6. Skin Antiseptics

Used to prevent or manage infection in eczema-affected areas. Examples include: Povidone-Iodine, Chlorhexidine, Copper Sulfate,

7. Topical Antihistamines and Anti-itch Creams

Examples: Calamine, Crotamiton, Phenol

• Used alone or in combination to relieve itching.

8. Combination Therapy: Topical Corticosteroids + Antibiotics

Formulations combining corticosteroids with antibacterial agents (e.g., fusidic acid, mupirocin) help treat infected eczema.

9. Monoclonal Antibody Therapy

Dupilumab: Targets IL-4 and IL-13. Used in patients aged 12+ with moderate to severe eczema unresponsive to topical treatments.