Eczema – One of the Most Common Inflammatory Skin Conditions
Eczema is one of the most common inflammatory skin diseases. Its cause is not fully understood, and due to a wide range of symptoms, it is often mistaken for scabies, psoriasis, contact dermatitis, or seborrheic dermatitis. The right eczema ointment not only soothes symptoms but also protects the skin from harmful external factors. Learn more below about the symptoms and causes of eczema, as well as how to treat it and prevent flare-ups.
What is eczema and what are its symptoms?
Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with a tendency to relapse. Symptoms vary depending on the age of the patient.
In infants and young children, small, itchy bumps and blisters may appear, which can turn into sores and erosions.
In teenagers and adults, the condition typically presents as thickened, scaly skin lesions that may crack and become painful.
Symptoms can be extremely bothersome, making accurate diagnosis and proper treatment essential. It’s important to remember that eczema is not just a cosmetic problem but a serious inflammatory condition requiring a comprehensive treatment approach.
What is eczema (atopic dermatitis) and how is it treated?
Eczema (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition with recurring episodes. Its symptoms, especially itching, vary with the patient’s age. There are two main clinical forms: eczematous and lichenified.
Eczematous phase – typically affects infants and children, with small itchy bumps and blisters appearing on the cheeks, abdomen, back, lower legs, and wrists. Scratching leads to sores and erosions.
Lichenified phase – more common in adolescents and adults, with thickened, scaly skin lesions forming on the hands, face, neck, and flexural areas. These often crack, especially during movement.
Possible causes include abnormal epidermal structure, genetic mutations, overactive immune response, and environmental factors.
Eczema treatment – therapeutic approach
Key steps include:
Avoiding allergens – if possible, identify and eliminate contact or food allergens. Damaged skin allows allergens to penetrate more easily, triggering IgE antibody production and allergic reactions. Common allergens include dust mites, pollen, animal dander, milk, nuts, and eggs.
Using emollients regularly – essential in restoring the skin’s barrier by moisturizing and sealing the epidermis.
Topical treatments – corticosteroid creams or ointments, or calcineurin inhibitors for sensitive areas. In severe cases, systemic therapy may be required to control inflammation.
Antihistamines for eczema (prescription)
The mainstay treatment includes corticosteroid ointments (mGKS), often combined with emollients. Calcineurin inhibitors are preferred for sensitive areas like the face or in children.
Topical absorption depends on skin thickness:
Best absorption: face, eyelids, skin folds, intimate areas
Poorer absorption: backs of hands/feet, soles
Additional systemic medications for severe eczema:
Cyclosporine A
Azathioprine
Methotrexate
Mycophenolate mofetil
JAK inhibitors (abrocitinib, baricitinib, upadacitinib)
Monoclonal antibodies (dupilumab, lebrikizumab)
⚠️ There is no “best” eczema ointment – only the one best suited for you. All prescription treatments require a doctor’s consultation and can be issued as an e-prescription.
Eczema ointments – why formulation matters
Ointments are preferred for dry skin. They form an occlusive layer, preventing water loss and enhancing drug absorption. Ideal for thickened, scaly (hyperkeratotic) skin and lichenified lesions.
Ointments may contain additional active ingredients:
Salicylic acid – promotes peeling and steroid penetration
Neomycin, gramicidin, gentamicin – antibacterial
Tar – softens skin, enhances absorption
Clotrimazole, natamycin, nystatin – antifungal
Clioquinol – antiseptic, enhances steroid absorption
Lotions and creams for eczema-prone skin
Creams absorb faster but are less effective for hydration. Ideal for acute eczema with exudation. Lotions and solutions are used for hairy areas.
Over-the-counter treatments for eczema
Though no OTC product replaces prescription ointments, some may support skin recovery:
Vitamin A – soothes irritation, promotes regeneration
Panthenol – moisturizes, soothes, improves elasticity
Allantoin – regenerates and exfoliates dead skin cells
Fatty acids – help restore the skin barrier
To relieve itching:
Zinc oxide creams and pastes
Products with polidocanol – up to 30% more effective than emollients alone
Skin care for eczema
Caring for eczema is key. First, identify and eliminate irritants (e.g., dish soap, laundry detergent, deodorants). Standard body lotions and hand creams may worsen the condition due to fragrances and dyes.
Use fragrance-free emollients to soothe, hydrate, and protect the skin.
Medical consultation at Dimedic
At Dimedic, we offer dermatology consultations (video or phone). Our team helps diagnose eczema, choose the right treatment, and issue prescriptions.
Professional support is essential to manage eczema effectively and improve quality of life for those with atopic dermatitis.