SKIN CONCERN:
Eczema/Dermatitis Treatment
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition characterised by red, itchy, and inflamed skin.
Its exact cause isn’t fully understood, but it’s thought to result from a combination of genetics, immune system, and environmental factors.
CAUSES
Eczema is a chronic condition with periods of remission and unexpected flare-ups. By identifying its underlying causes, our atopic dermatitis specialists in Wollongong can create a personalised treatment plan that effectively reduces the frequency and intensity of flare-ups, helping you maintain healthier skin.
Genetics: A family history of eczema can increase the risk.
Immune System Dysfunction: Overactive immune responses can lead to skin inflammation.
Skin Barrier Weakness: Eczema often occurs when the skin’s protective barrier is compromised, allowing irritants and allergens to penetrate.
Allergens: Substances like pollen, dust mites, and certain foods can trigger flare-ups, especially in individuals with allergies.
Irritants: Harsh soaps, detergents, fragrances, and chemicals can worsen symptoms.
Environmental Factors: Cold, dry weather and excessive sweating can exacerbate eczema.
Stress: Emotional stress can weaken the immune system and worsen symptoms.
TYPES OF ECZEMA
Each type of eczema comes with different symptoms and requires tailored care.
- Atopic dermatitis — This condition is characterised by inflamed, dry and cracked skin. It’s common in young children but can affect individuals at any age. It may flare up periodically due to allergens, stress or environmental factors.
- Contact dermatitis — It manifests as a rash that develops when your skin is exposed to a substance that triggers an allergic reaction. Common irritants include plants, fragrances and cosmetics.
- Dyshidrotic eczema — A chronic condition characterised by the appearance of small blisters on the fingers, palms and soles of the feet. As the blisters dry out, they can leave the skin scaly and prone to cracking.
- Neurodermatitis — This type of eczema starts with an itchy patch, often set off by irritants like tight clothing or insect bites. The irritation can lead to intense persistent scratching, which may cause the skin to become thickened, leathery and prone to open sores that may bleed. It often affects areas such as the legs, arms, wrists or neck.
- Nummular eczema — It appears as raised, coin-shaped spots on the skin that can be intensely itchy. These lesions may ooze clear fluid and eventually become crusty. Nummular eczema can be brought on by allergies, bacterial infections, skin injuries or exposure to harsh soaps and rough fabrics.
- Stasis dermatitis — This condition results from poor blood circulation typically in the lower legs. Symptoms include ankle swelling, itching and dryness. Over time, the skin can become discoloured and thickened.
- Seborrheic dermatitis — This is an inflammatory form of eczema, which mainly affects areas of the body with a high concentration of oil glands, including the scalp, face, chest, armpits, behind the ears and sides of the nose. Common signs include ring-shaped rashes and patches of greasy skin covered with flaky white or yellowish scales.
Contact us today to learn more about our atopic dermatitis treatments in Wollongong and pricing.
TREATMENTS
The management of eczema can be through a variety of approaches. An appointment with one of our doctors is essential to tailor a plan to suit your skin’s needs. We also offer treatments from our dermal clinicians that may assist in the management of eczema such as LED light therapy.
FAQs
What treatments do you offer at Advantage Skin Clinic to treat eczema (atopic dermatitis)?
To help manage eczema symptoms, we offer Dermalux® LED light therapy, a non-invasive treatment that utilises light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to accelerate skin cell regeneration. This eczema treatment uses a combination of near-infrared and red light, both known for their strong anti-inflammatory effects, to soothe and revitalise the skin.
How many eczema treatments will I need and how quickly can I expect to see results?
The number of Dermalux® LED light treatments required depends on the type and severity of your eczema. During your initial consultation, our eczema specialists in Wollongong will provide an estimate of the number of sessions and their frequency.
While many clients may see noticeable improvements after just one session of LED red light therapy, we generally recommend a course of four to six treatments for more lasting outcomes.
Is atopic dermatitis treatment painful?
No, our Dermalux® LED treatment is designed to be pain-free and non-invasive. However, should you experience any discomfort, please inform your eczema specialists immediately.
Are there any risks or side effects associated with eczema treatments?
Dermalux® LED phototherapy is a safe and non-invasive treatment, but certain medical conditions may increase the risk of side effects.
If you’re pregnant, nursing, have a history of severe allergic reactions to sunlight or have been diagnosed with specific types of skin cancer, it’s important to discuss these factors during your initial consultation. Our doctors and dermal clinicians will carefully review your medical history to ensure this treatment is appropriate and safe for you.
How do I care for my skin between treatments?
It’s crucial to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your eczema specialist. Generally, you can resume your regular skincare routine, but it’s essential to keep your skin hydrated with a good moisturiser and protect it from UV exposure by applying sunscreen daily.
What other skin concerns do you treat at Advantage Skin Clinic?
Our eczema treatment clinic in Wollongong is equipped with advanced technologies to help manage various conditions:
For more information about our booking process and eczema treatment clinic hours, please refer to our FAQs page.
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