Eczema is a very common skin condition, and it usually gets worse for most who have it during the colder months.

Overall, eczema is a tough condition to treat. Our AFC Urgent Care Boulder team shares additional info on eczema below, so keep reading!

What Is Eczema?

Eczema is a condition that makes your skin red and itchy. It’s most common among young children, but anyone at any age can get it. Most forms of eczema are chronic and will flare up periodically.

It’s one of many types of dermatitis, and it damages the skin barrier function (the “glue” of your skin), which will, in turn, make the skin more sensitive and more prone to infection and dryness. We’ve listed eczema’s common symptoms below.

Common Symptoms of Eczema

• Dry skin
• Itching, which may be severe, especially at night
• Red to brownish-gray patches—especially on the hands, feet, ankles, wrists, neck, upper chest, eyelids, inside the bend of the elbows and knees, and in infants, the face and scalp
• Small, raised bumps, which may leak fluid and crust over when scratched
• Thickened, cracked, scaly skin
• Raw, sensitive, swollen skin from scratching

Is Eczema Treatable?

Yes and no. It’s difficult to treat eczema itself, but it’s possible to limit and reduce the severity of flare-ups. In most cases, you may need to try various treatments over months or years to control eczema and limit the amount of flare-ups you experience.

The earlier eczema is recognized and diagnosed, the better. If regular moisturizing and other self-care steps don’t help, your doctor may suggest things like OTC creams, ointments and some prescription medications. We’ve listed some additional ways you can treat and limit eczema flare-ups below.

Ways to Limit Eczema Flare-Ups

• Use a humidifier if dry air makes your skin dry.
• Use mild soaps and other products that are free of perfumes, dyes and alcohol. Look for products labeled “fragrance free,” “hypoallergenic” and “for sensitive skin.”
• Moisturize your skin using a cream or ointment. Lotions don’t work as well. Apply several times a day, including after you bathe or shower.
• Use lukewarm water in the tub or shower instead of hot.

Do you have more questions about eczema? If so, don’t hesitate to reach out to our AFC Urgent Care Boulder team today.