Eczema
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San Francisco Dermatology
Dermatologists located in Union Square, San Francisco, CA
The itchy, scaly, and red breakouts caused by eczema can be embarrassing – and painful. At San Francisco Dermatology in downtown San Francisco near Union Square, board-certified dermatologists Michael J. Dans, MD, PhD and Mark Reisman, MD, can help you gain control over eczema and improve your skin’s health. Book an appointment online through the patient portal or call the office today to learn more.
Eczema Q & A
What is eczema?
Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a type of red and itchy skin rash. While it often appears in childhood, you can develop eczema at any age. Eczema is a lifelong condition that may flare up at different times of your life, and it does not have a cure.
Eczema can appear on any part of the body, but may be more likely to appear on the hands, feet, wrists, ankles, neck, chest, or inside the bend of your knees and elbows. Symptoms of eczema include skin that is:
- Dry and itchy
- Reddened
- Scaly-looking
- Thickened
- Sensitive
What causes eczema?
The cause of eczema is unclear. Physicians believe it may be related to a gene that prevents your skin from protecting you from irritants.
Certain irritants can make eczema worse. These include:
- Certain chemicals
- Excessive sweating
- Dry air
- Allergens, like dust or pollen
- Scented skin products or detergents
Knowing what triggers your eczema can help you avoid those things and reduce your number of flare-ups.
How do dermatologists treat eczema?
At San Francisco Dermatology, Dr. Dans and his team use a variety of treatments to help you prevent eczema flare-ups and improve your skin’s health. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions closely to keep eczema under control.
Your personalized treatment plan may include multiple lotions and/or creams to use each day or when you have a flare-up. Some creams, such as moisturizers and corticosteroids, help keep skin from itching and becoming irritated. Other creams help repair your skin after a breakout. Antibiotic creams help prevent skin infections.
For very severe breakouts, your doctor may prescribe oral steroids to stop the skin reaction. A new medicine, called dupilumab, may also help people with very severe eczema.
At San Francisco Dermatology, Dr. Dans and Dr. Reisman provide personalized care for minor to severe eczema, improving the appearance and health of your skin. Book an appointment online through the patient portal or call the office to find out how he can help you.
