Eczema

Eczema or atopic dermatitis as it is also referred to as is a fairly common inflammatory skin condition. Scientific studies suggest that a genetic defect in the filaggrin gene as the cause of most cases of eczema. A defect in the filaggrin protein leads to a dysfunctional skin barrier. Filaggrin plays a role in moisturizing and retaining water in the skin. Lack of filaggrin leads to dryness of the skin. Dry skin is itchy skin therefore itchiness is a hallmark of eczema.

Understanding Your Skin

Treatment And Care

Why S. Albertson Is Different

Here at S. Albertson Dermatology we understand how miserable eczema can be. Eczema can really affect your quality of life on a daily basis. Having dry itchy skin is not fun for anyone. We tailor a treatment plan that fits your needs to get your skin clear. Treatment options range from creams/lotions/ointments to oral medications to injectable medications. With continued advancements in research and treatments for eczema we are confident that as we work together we can improve your skin.

Eczema dermatologic treatment in Idaho Falls

Types of Eczema

Unique to You

Acne dermatologic treatment in Idaho Falls

Infantile eczema occurs from age 2 months to 2 years. About half of the time it will present in the first year of life. Typically it will not appear before 2 months of age. Most commonly it will start with redness and dryness of the cheeks and then spread to other parts of the body. It can affect the scalp, neck, knees, elbows, trunk, and buttocks. Often it will be worse in the winter and better in the summer.

Childhood eczema occurs between the ages of 2 and 10. Classically it will affect the antecubital and popliteal fossae. It can also affect the neck, wrists, ankles, eyelids, and face. Itchiness is a constant feature that can lead to lack of sleep and skin infection. The skin lesions become more raised as the itching continues. It becomes imperative to break the itch scratch cycle. 

Adolescent/adult eczema is often preceded by infantile or childhood eczema but not always. A small percentage of patients will develop eczema after age 18 and into adulthood. Adolescents tend to get the classic distribution in the antecubital and popliteal fossae as well as the neck and face. Adults will tend to have a more varied presentation and often will not have classic sites affected. This can make the diagnosis more challenging. But as will other forms of eczema itchiness is a hallmark. 

Infantile eczema occurs from age 2 months to 2 years. About half of the time it will present in the first year of life. Typically it will not appear before 2 months of age. Most commonly it will start with redness and dryness of the cheeks and then spread to other parts of the body. It can affect the scalp, neck, knees, elbows, trunk, and buttocks. Often it will be worse in the winter and better in the summer.  

  • Ear eczema
  • Eyelid eczema
  • Breast eczema
  • Hand Eczema
  • Dyshidrotic eczema (pompholyx)
  • Fingertip hand dermatitis
  • Nummular eczema
  • Xerotic eczema

How We Can Help

See the Difference

Here at S. Albertson Dermatology we have access to all of the treatments for eczema. No two patients are the same so each treatment plan is individualized to meet your specific needs. A treatment plan may be as simple as establishing a daily healthy skin routine or it may require topical medications such as medicated creams and lotions. Some severe cases of eczema require oral or injectable medications. Whatever your needs are, we will work together to get your skin as clear as possible so you can have a better quality of life and face each day with confidence.