Atopic dermatitis or eczema is a red, itchy rash that usually begins in infancy on a baby’s scalp and/or cheeks. As the child ages and into adulthood, the rash most commonly occurs where the skin flexes (like inside the elbows, behind the knees and the front of the neck.) When scratched, the rash can leak fluid and crust over. While the cause of eczema is unknown, this form of dermatitis can be related to a mix of factors, including: food, dry skin, a gene variation, an immune system dysfunction, bacteria on the skin and environmental conditions. People with atopic dermatitis may experience improvement and then flare-ups.
Chelsea Skin & Laser may begin your treatment with a prescription of a topical corticosteroid, Rinvoq, Opzelura or Jak inhibitors. Antihistamines often decrease itch and antibiotics could be prescribed if an infection develops. Allergy patch testing to determine a source for the dermatitis could be recommended or phototherapy has shown effective for severe cases.