Eczema : Atopic Eczema or atopic dermatitis is a chronic dermatological disease that causes skin rashes and itching.
This pathology is both very embarrassing from an aesthetic point of view but also in terms of the discomfort generated.
The existing treatments against eczema are above all symptomatic, but do not allow a definitive cure. Qare’s medical team gives you advice on how to relieve your symptoms.
The different types of eczema treatments
What cream for eczema?
Eczema appears in flare-ups forming patches and lesions , sometimes dry, sometimes oozing and itchy.
During these outbreaks of eczema , the first treatment consists of applying topical corticosteroid- based creams and/or ointments , prescribed by the doctor. The latter will determine the power of the local treatment according to the condition of your skin.
This is an attack treatment aimed at removing the plaques and reducing itching , but it does not prevent recurrences.
If you apply a cream or ointment against eczema, be sure to respect the dosages indicated, without massaging or applying thick layers.
You should continue treatment until the lesions disappear , usually between 1 and 3 weeks. The best cream to treat your eczema will be the one recommended by your doctor.
If topical corticosteroid treatment fails, a dermatologist or pediatrician can prescribe an immunomodulator ointment (based on tacrolimus).
Oral treatment for eczema
Topical treatments for eczema can be supplemented with oral treatments. The doctor can temporarily prescribe antihistamines , used against allergies, to reduce itching when it is severe and interferes with sleep.
He may also prescribe stronger topical corticosteroids to be taken by mouth. Local or oral antibiotics are used only in case of bacterial superinfection of the lesions.
How to cure eczema with home remedies?
In case of chronic eczema or triggered by psychological factors, it is also possible to use grandmother’s remedies such as herbal treatment, in addition to a well-conducted medical treatment.
Certain plants or oils have indeed soothing virtues in the treatment of eczema. However, there is no miracle cure for eczema.
- The sage used in infusion can relieve the skin. Dip a compress in the infusion and place it on the skin.
- Chamomile cream can also soothe damaged skin.
- Coconut oil is very moisturizing and helps reduce dryness of the skin.
- Aloe vera relieves itching and moisturizes the skin. You can apply it in gel.
- Argan oil is a very good natural treatment for dry eczema because it moisturizes the skin.
- Applying vitamin E oil to the skin can help soothe itching.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a natural treatment for eczema, avoid putting apple cider vinegar or the like on your lesions.
Since homeopathy has not proven its effectiveness, we advise you to consult your doctor to benefit from drug treatments if necessary.
In addition, here are the actions to apply in case of eczema:
- do not take too hot or long showers ;
- wash with soap -free bars or mild soap-free cleansers;
- avoid soaps, chemicals, perfumes and cosmetics;
- dry yourself by dabbing on the skin (not by rubbing);
- wear light cotton clothing , and avoid synthetic or scratchy materials.
Laser treatment for eczema
There is the possibility of laser treatment of eczema reserved for severe and extensive forms of the disease affecting a large part of the skin surface.
It would reduce lesions and improve skin hydration. There are also ultraviolet treatments but these can increase the risk of skin cancer.
Additionally, some patients respond well to natural sun exposure which promotes healing.
What is the most effective treatment for my type of eczema?
Contact eczema: how to treat it?
Contact eczema is a skin disease that is acquired after contact with an allergen . It most often affects the wrists, feet or face.
It is different from atopic eczema which occurs on an atopic genetic ground in babies and young children . However, the two can coexist.
Treatment for contact eczema includes:
- eviction of the allergen in question from the patient’s environment;
- local topical corticosteroids .
Nervous eczema: how to get rid of it?
People with atopic eczema may experience flare-ups or an exacerbation of their eczema during times of stress . The disease is caused by a disorder of the immune system which can also be disrupted by the production of cortisol (the stress hormone).
In this case, it is important to maintain a rhythm and a healthy lifestyle to prevent stress and its consequences. Here are a few tips :
- take care of your sleep and avoid factors that could disturb it (screen at night, alcohol, etc.);
- exercise regularly ;
- eat healthy ;
- save yourself moments of relaxation ;
- integrate relaxation or meditation exercises , and why not sophrology , into your routine.
Treat facial eczema
If you have patches of eczema on your face , you must be careful not to apply any cream on it. The treatment of eczema on the face, on the neck or even the eyelids, remains based on low-activity corticosteroids (TREDESONIT° type), but as the skin is more fragile, there are specific creams . Never apply cream without seeking medical advice.
Relieve eczema on hands
The treatment for eczema on the hands is the same whether the eczema is atopic or allergic .
- You can apply a corticosteroid cream on the advice of your doctor.
- You can complete this treatment by using moisturizing creams , oily if possible, on your skin. You can ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice on choosing it.
- To wash your hands, use soap-free cleansing gels .
Eczema treatment for the scalp
If your eczema affects your scalp and ears ( seborrheic dermatitis ), the treatment is slightly different. Your doctor may prescribe suitable corticosteroid-based shampoos or lotions .
They will reduce dandruff and scales.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is eczema contagious?
Eczema is not a contagious disease. It develops in people with genetic predispositions or after contact with an allergen.
What foods to avoid in case of eczema?
To find out if your eczema is linked to a food allergy, you can do tests by avoiding certain foods for a given period, such as cow’s milk, eggs, fish and shellfish, for example. Ask your doctor for advice.
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