The constant urge to scratch can take over your day, making it hard to concentrate at work, enjoy time with family, or get a good night’s sleep. You’ve probably tried countless over-the-counter creams and home remedies, only to see your symptoms return again and again. At Millcreek Dermatology, we know that Eczema & Atopic Dermatitis is more than just a skin problem it affects your entire life, and you deserve more than temporary fixes. Dr. Ivan Flint and our dermatologists work closely with you to uncover what’s triggering your flare-ups and build a long-term strategy that brings real, lasting improvement to your skin.
Eczema & Atopic Dermatitis
Understanding Eczema and Atopic Dermatitis
Eczema is an umbrella term for several types of inflammatory skin conditions that cause red, itchy, and inflamed patches on your skin. Atopic dermatitis represents the most common form of eczema, though other types exist as well. While many people use these terms interchangeably, understanding that atopic dermatitis is a specific type of eczema helps clarify your diagnosis and treatment options. The condition affects the skin’s barrier function, making it harder for your body to retain moisture and protect against irritants and allergens. This compromised barrier leads to the characteristic dry, scaly patches that can appear anywhere on your body, though they frequently show up on the hands, feet, ankles, wrists, neck, upper chest, eyelids, and the insides of elbows and knees.
Both children and adults can develop eczema, though the appearance and location of symptoms typically vary with age. In infants, it often appears on the cheeks and scalp, while older children and adults typically experience symptoms on their hands, neck, inner elbows, and behind the knees. The severity can range from mild, with occasional dry patches, to severe cases that significantly impact your quality of life and daily activities.
Benefits of Eczema Treatment
Better Sleep Quality and Daytime Energy
Nighttime itching is one of the most disruptive symptoms of atopic dermatitis, causing you to wake up multiple times and scratch unconsciously while asleep. Professional eczema treatment reduces inflammation and itching, allowing you to sleep through the night without interruption. When you’re well-rested, you’ll have more energy and focus to handle daily responsibilities and enjoy activities you’ve been avoiding.
Lower Healthcare Costs Over Time
Untreated eczema often leads to frequent doctor visits, emergency appointments for severe flare-ups, and repeated purchases of ineffective products. A comprehensive treatment plan reduces the frequency and severity of your symptoms, meaning fewer urgent care visits and less money spent on temporary solutions. Investing in proper dermatological care now saves you from the escalating costs of managing complications later.
Reduced Dependence on Strong Medications
Many people with chronic eczema find themselves relying on increasingly potent medications to control their symptoms. With the right treatment approach, you can often reduce your need for high-strength steroids and systemic medications over time. Your dermatologist will help you develop maintenance strategies that keep your skin healthy with gentler, more sustainable options.
Protection for Your Family Members
Eczema has a strong genetic component, and managing your condition properly helps you understand triggers that may affect your children or other family members. You’ll learn valuable strategies for preventing flare-ups and maintaining skin health that you can share with loved ones who may be at risk. Early intervention based on your experience can help younger family members avoid severe symptoms altogether.
Greater Participation in Physical Activities
Sweat, friction, and exposure to environmental elements during exercise can trigger painful eczema flare-ups that discourage physical activity. Effective treatment strengthens your skin’s resilience, allowing you to engage in sports, outdoor activities, and fitness routines without fear of worsening symptoms. You’ll regain the freedom to stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle without constant worry about your skin’s reaction.
Our Eczema Care Process
Why Sets Our Eczema Treatment Apart
Millcreek Dermatology provides comprehensive, compassionate care for patients dealing with eczema at any age. Our dermatology team stays current with the latest research and treatment options, ensuring you have access to both proven therapies and innovative new approaches. We recognize that eczema affects each person differently, which is why we never rely on one-size-fits-all solutions.
What sets us apart is our commitment to patient education and long-term support. We take the time to help you understand your condition, identify your specific triggers, and develop sustainable management strategies that work with your lifestyle. You’re not just receiving a prescription you’re gaining a partner in your skin health who will support you through every phase of treatment and beyond.
Break Free from Constant Flare-Ups!
Dr. Ivan Flint and our team at Millcreek Dermatology combine clinical expertise with genuine compassion to help you achieve the clear, comfortable skin you deserve. Whether you’re experiencing your first flare-up or have been managing symptoms for years, we have the knowledge and resources to make a real difference in your skin health and overall quality of life.
Call Millcreek Dermatology now at 801-262-3600 to book your eczema evaluation and start working with dermatologists who take the time to understand what’s really causing your flare-ups. Follow our Facebook and Instagram pages for practical tips on managing atopic dermatitis, updates on breakthrough treatments we’re offering, and patient success stories that prove you can take control of your skin health.
FAQs
What is eczema?
Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes red, dry, itchy patches on various parts of your body. It appears as rough, scaly areas that may become thickened from repeated scratching, and the affected skin often looks darker or lighter than surrounding areas. The rash can also appear as small, raised bumps that may leak fluid and crust over when scratched, particularly during active flare-ups.
What causes eczema?
Eczema results from a combination of genetic factors and environmental triggers that affect your skin’s barrier function. Your immune system overreacts to certain irritants, allergens, stress, weather changes, or other triggers, leading to inflammation and symptoms. Common triggers include harsh soaps, fragrances, certain fabrics, pet dander, pollen, dust mites, extreme temperatures, and even stress or hormonal changes.
Is eczema contagious?
No, eczema is not contagious you cannot catch it from someone else or spread it to others through physical contact. The condition is caused by internal factors related to your immune system and genetic predisposition, not by bacteria or viruses. You can safely interact with others without worrying about transmitting eczema, even during active flare-ups.
How to cure eczema permanently?
While there’s currently no permanent cure for eczema, you can effectively manage and control your symptoms with proper treatment and lifestyle modifications. Many people experience long periods of remission where symptoms disappear completely, especially with consistent skin care and trigger avoidance. Working with a dermatologist to develop a comprehensive management plan gives you the best chance of minimizing flare-ups and maintaining healthy skin.
Is eczema an autoimmune disease?
Eczema is not classified as an autoimmune disease, though it does involve immune system dysfunction. The condition is better described as an immune-mediated disorder where your body’s immune response becomes overactive in reaction to certain triggers. However, people with eczema often have a higher risk of developing other immune-related conditions like asthma, hay fever, and food allergies.
Does eczema go away?
Many children with eczema experience improvement or complete resolution of symptoms as they grow older, with some outgrowing the condition by adolescence or early adulthood. However, some people continue to have eczema throughout their lives, experiencing periods of flare-ups alternating with clear skin. With proper treatment and management, you can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms, allowing you to enjoy long stretches of healthy, comfortable skin.
