Effective skin health relies on maintaining moisture for a smooth, supple, and healthy complexion. When grappling with the persistent skin condition known as eczema, the natural moisture balance is disrupted, leading to bothersome symptoms like itchiness and inflammation. Despite eczema’s challenges, you can effectively manage symptoms through precise diagnosis and clinical care. Feinstein Dermatology takes pride in offering dedicated eczema relief for individuals within the Delray Beach, FL community. Our commitment to patient care ensures that you receive comprehensive support in addressing and alleviating the effects of eczema, empowering you to enjoy healthier and more comfortable skin.

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Atopic Dermatitis and Its Causes

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, often manifests in early childhood, and while symptoms may alleviate with age, this outcome is not guaranteed. The precise causes of this condition remain a subject of ongoing research, with a widely recognized consensus pointing towards a strong genetic component, possibly aggravated by environmental factors and by the strength of the immune system.

If you have eczema, you may notice red, itchy patches on your skin, with the most common areas being the arms and behind the knees. However, these patches can also appear elsewhere on your body.


Treatment Options

The first step in your eczema treatment journey is to seek a diagnosis from one of our board-certified dermatologists, who can help to identify some of the factors causing eczema flare-ups.

While you cannot cure eczema, you can manage its symptoms and reduce flare-ups. Topical solutions, including steroids and antihistamines, often prove effective, along with oral medications and light therapy.


Tips for Managing

To help manage eczema flare-ups, your dermatologist might recommend shorter, lukewarm showers as well as topical or oral medications to keep inflammation under control.


Meet Our Board-Certified Dermatology Team

At Feinstein Dermatology in Delray Beach, FL, our commitment is patient satisfaction and loyalty. We are defining the new standard in customer experience and outcomes, striving to lead by example for others to follow. With a dedicated patient base of over thirty-five thousand (35,000) individuals who have entrusted us with their dermatological and cosmetic needs, we have earned our reputation as a leading provider in the field.

Our team comprises dedicated professionals, including board-certified dermatologists, a board-certified Mohs surgeon, and a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon. We invite you to experience the exceptional care and dedication that defines Feinstein Dermatology.

LEADERS IN DERMATOLOGY & COSMETICS

Meet Your Providers

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Brian Feinstein, D.O., FAAD

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Thomas Cahn, M.D., FAAD

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Lawrence Enisman, M.D., FACS

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Meredith Hancock, M.D., FAAD

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Robb Wilentz, M.D.

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Nathalie Allison-Fecteau, PA-C

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Nicole Fernandez

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Eczema FAQs

Eczema is a general term used to describe an inflammation of the skin. In fact, eczema is a series of chronic skin conditions that produce itchy rashes; scaly, dry and leathery areas; skin redness; or inflammation around blisters. It can be located anywhere on the body, but most frequently appears in the creases on the face, arms and legs. Itchiness is the key characteristic and symptom of eczema. When scratched, the lesions may begin to ooze and get crusted. Over time, painful cracks in the scaly, leathery tissue can form.

Eczema affects people of all races, genders and ages. It is thought to be hereditary and is not contagious. The cause of eczema remains unknown, but it usually has physical, environmental or lifestyle triggers. Coming into contact with a trigger, such as wind or an allergy-producing fabric, launches the rash and inflammation. Although it is possible to get eczema only once, the majority of cases are chronic and are characterized by intermittent flare-ups throughout a person’s life.

Eczema takes on different forms depending on the nature of the trigger and the location of the rash. While they all share some common symptoms like itchiness, there are differences.

The following are some of the most common types of eczema.

Atopic Dermatitis

The most frequent form of eczema, atopic dermatitis is thought to be caused by abnormal functioning of the body’s immune system. It is characterized by itchy, inflamed skin. Atopic dermatitis tends to run in families. About two-thirds of the people who develop this form of eczema do so before the age of one. Atopic dermatitis generally flares up and recedes intermittently throughout the patient’s life.

Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is caused when the skin comes into contact with an allergy-producing agent or an irritant, such as chemicals. Finding the triggering allergen is important to treatment and prevention. Allergens can be things like laundry detergent, cosmetics, jewelry, fabrics, perfume, diapers and poison ivy or poison sumac.

Dyshidrotic Dermatitis

This type of eczema strikes the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. It produces clear, deep blisters that itch and burn. Dyshidrotic dermatitis occurs most frequently during the summer months and in warm climates.

Neurodermatitis

Also known as Lichen Simplex Chronicus, this is a chronic skin inflammation caused by a continuous cycle of scratching and itching in response to a localized itch, like a mosquito bite. It creates scaly patches of skin, most commonly on the head, lower legs, wrists or forearms. Over time, the skin may become thickened and leathery.

Nummular Dermatitis

This form of eczema appears as round patches of irritated skin that may be crusted, scaly and extremely itchy. Nummular dermatitis most frequently appears on the arms, back, buttocks and lower legs, and is usually a chronic condition.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common condition that causes yellowish, oily and scaly patches on the scalp, face or other body parts. Dandruff, in adults, and cradle cap, in infants, are both forms of seborrheic dermatitis. Unlike other types of eczema, seborrheic dermatitis does not necessarily itch. It tends to run in families. Known triggers include weather, oily skin, emotional stress and infrequent shampooing.

Stasis Dermatitis

Also known as varicose eczema, this form of eczema is a skin irritation that appears on the lower legs of middle-aged and elderly people. It is related to circulation and vein problems. Symptoms include itching and reddish-brown discoloration of the skin on one or both legs. As the condition progresses, it can lead to blistering, oozing and skin lesions.

Yes, eczema can spread, particularly if left untreated or if the affected individual continues to be exposed to triggers that exacerbate the condition. Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by red, itchy, and inflamed patches of skin. These patches can spread to other areas of the body if the inflammation is not controlled. Additionally, scratching the affected skin can lead to further irritation and the spread of eczema lesions to nearby areas. Proper management of eczema, including the use of moisturizers, topical corticosteroids, and avoiding triggers, can help prevent its spread and reduce symptoms. If you notice spreading or worsening of eczema patches, it’s essential to consult with Dr. Feinstein, a board-certified dermatologist, for evaluation and appropriate treatment.


Feel Good About Your Skin

At Feinstein Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, we’re more than just skincare experts in the heart of the Palm Beaches – we’re your partners in feeling good about your skin, for life. Our commitment is to help you embrace your skin’s natural beauty and maintain a healthy, confident glow. We understand that your skin reflects your well-being, and we’re dedicated to making you feel comfortable in your own skin. Don’t wait to take that first step towards your skincare journey – schedule a consultation for eczema treatment at our office in Delray Beach, FL today at (561) 498-4407, and let us be the dermatologists who are there for you, every step of the way.