Eczema Specialist
Integrated Dermatology of Newton-Brighton
Dermatology located in Brighton, MA, Mashpee, MA & Needham, MA
An estimated 31.6 million people in the United States have eczema. If you need help relieving chronically dry, itchy skin during eczema flare-ups, you can find help at Integrated Dermatology of Newton-Brighton. Mark Amster, MD, and the team offer customized care plans for eczema at offices in Needham, Mashpee, and Brighton, Massachusetts. You can receive prescription medications to relieve your symptoms and vital information to keep eczema well-controlled in the long-term. Call the Integrated Dermatology of Newton-Brighton office nearest you or book an appointment online today.
Eczema Q & A
What is eczema?
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic condition that makes your skin itchy and red.
Healthy skin has a natural barrier that keeps it moisturized and protected from irritants, bacteria, and allergens. When you have eczema, you don’t have this barrier and are at an increased risk for persistent symptoms like:
- Dry skin
- Itching
- Cracked, scaly skin
- Discolored patches of skin
Small, raised bumps can also form on your skin and might leak fluid if you scratch too much. Your skin can also become swollen and extra sensitive from excessive scratching.
If not properly managed, eczema can increase your risk for recurrent skin infections.
When should I seek treatment for eczema?
In many cases, eczema develops in children before the age of five. However, the condition can also develop in adolescence and adulthood.
Typically, the symptoms of eczema flare-up periodically and can be severe enough to interfere with your routine.
Integrated Dermatology of Newton-Brighton recommends scheduling an eczema evaluation if you have difficulties sleeping because of persistent scratching or if you have signs of a skin infection, such as areas of skin that discharge pus or bleed frequently.
How is eczema treated?
The dermatology specialists at Integrated Dermatology of Newton-Brighton customize a treatment plan that focuses on relieving your symptoms and preventing new flare-ups of eczema.
In addition to keeping your skin well moisturized, your provider might recommend medications you apply topically to control itching. If you have an active skin infection, you might need a course of antibiotics to clear it.
If your eczema symptoms are severe or hard to control, you might benefit from oral medications like corticosteroids that treat chronic inflammation.
Integrated Dermatology of Newton-Brighton also works with you on strategies to protect the long-term health of your skin. Your provider can recommend skin care products such as cleansers, lotions, and sunscreens that are gentle on your skin and protect it from allergens and other substances that can trigger an eczema outbreak.
If you can’t find relief from chronic eczema itching with home care, schedule a diagnostic evaluation online or by calling the Integrated Dermatology of Newton-Brighton office nearest you today.