In an article published by LATINA, dermatologists detailed atopic dermatitis triggers and self-care routines patients can follow to treat the condition at home. The author of the article, who has had eczema for over 20 years, was treated by Miriam Casal, MD, a dermatologist who runs a wholly Latina/Hispanic-staffed practice out of Elmhurst, Queens. Dr. Casal provides tips, alongside Laura Scott, MD, FAAD, on managing eczema.
Drs. Casal and Scott explained that atopic dermatitis can be caused by a weakened skin barrier that makes the skin more sensitive to allergens and irritants, and more susceptible to inflammation and infections. As a result of the damaged skin barrier, the skin may retain less moisture and patients may experience flare-ups involving skin dryness, itchiness, and rashes most commonly in the flexural areas of the body—the inside of the elbow, back of the knee, base of the knuckles, and eyelids. Patients were advised to avoid atopic dermatitis triggers—such as stress, smoke, sweat, products containing fragrance, cleaning products, synthetic and wool fabric, cold weather, and changes in temperature or humidity. The experts noted that patients may experience more atopic dermatitis flare-ups in the winter months when they raise the heat in their homes and take hot showers that can strip the skin of its protective moisture. They suggested wearing cotton clothing, using a humidifier to minimize skin irritants and dryness, and taking warm or cool showers to limit moisture loss. The experts recommended that patients moisturize the skin twice daily with topical moisturizers or anti-inflammatory creams to reduce flare-ups, especially within 3 minutes after showering. They also encouraged patients to keep a record of all of the potential allergens or irritants they come into contact with to find the culprits contributing to their flare-ups. The experts concluded by urging individuals who have symptoms of eczema to first consult a dermatologist who can properly diagnose and prescribe treatments for all types of eczema, while acknowledging that issues to accessing health care can often or sometimes be a factor.