Eczema Specialist

Advanced Dermatology Surgery Center

Dermatologist & Medical Aesthetics located in Fresno, CA

About 35 million people in the United States suffer from eczema, including kids, teens, and adults. Controlling eczema symptoms is important for feeling better and reducing the risk of infection that can occur when affected areas of skin bleed and crack. As a top-ranked dermatologist in Fresno, California, Dr. Jane Kardashian has extensive experience helping patients of all ages manage their eczema, using the most innovative and advanced approaches for long-lasting relief. If you have eczema or if you have symptoms associated with the condition, call Advanced Dermatology Surgery Center or use our online system to schedule an appointment today.

Eczema Q & A

What is eczema?

Eczema is a chronic skin condition that’s most common among kids but can occur in adults as well, especially adults who had eczema when they were children. Eczema causes patches of red, itchy, flaky skin that can weep, ooze, and develop a crust, especially if the area is scratched or rubbed. Sometimes, the skin can bleed or crack, increasing the risk of developing a skin infection. Without regular treatment, the skin may become hard and leathery, a condition called lichen simplex chronicus.

Is eczema contagious?

No, you can’t “catch” eczema from someone who has the condition, nor can you pass it to someone else, even with direct contact with the affected areas.

What causes eczema?

Researchers aren’t sure what causes eczema, but they believe it’s due to an inflammatory response in the skin that results in irritation and formation of those dry, flaky, itchy patches of skin that are characteristic of eczema. Eczema tends to be worse during “flare-ups” caused by triggers like:

Very dry environments

Irritating soaps and skincare products

Harsh detergents

Certain kinds of makeup

Extreme temperatures

Perspiration

Having a family history of eczema increases your chances of having the condition, and it’s also more common among people who have allergies and asthma.

How does Dr. Kardashian diagnose eczema?

Usually, eczema can be diagnosed with an examination of your skin along with a thorough review of your medical history and your symptoms. In a few cases, Dr. Kardashian takes a small scraping of your skin for further evaluation in a lab to rule out other possible causes of symptoms.

What treatments are available to help me manage my eczema symptoms?

There’s no cure for eczema, but there are several methods available to help manage symptoms so you can lead a more comfortable life. Often, mild to moderate symptoms of eczema can be managed with changes in your routine, like:

Taking shorter, cooler showers

Avoiding long, hot baths and hot tubs

Changing skin care products or soaps

Changing your laundry detergent

Applying moisturizer on a regular basis to keep skin hydrated and prevent dryness and irritation

In addition to lifestyle changes, topical creams or lotions, prescription moisturizers, or antihistamine medications can help control more severe or persistent symptoms like itching and scaling. In very severe cases, phototherapy may be helpful. Dr. Kardashian will develop your treatment plan specifically for your needs.