Dermatitis Treatment in Dallas, Texas

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What is Dermatitis?

Dermatitis is a broad category of skin conditions, which is generally characterized by skin irritation. Some of the most common forms of dermatitis include the following skin conditions:

Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is a skin ailment that results in red, itching rashes after you make contact with an irritant. This form of dermatitis is essentially the skin’s reaction to an allergen–or something you are allergic to. You could also feel a stinging sensation or develop blisters on the affected area if you are experiencing contact dermatitis.

Seborrheic Dermatitis (Dandruff)

Seborrheic dermatitis–sometimes referred to as dandruff or cradle cap in infants–is a common form of dermatitis that causes scaling, itching, redness, and dandruff that does not go away. It’s commonly a long-term condition that is manageable through dermatological care but could still cause seasonal flare-ups to occur.

Follicular Eczema

This kind of dermatitis often affects people with darker skin complexions and results in thickened skin and hair follicle bumps or protrusions from the skin’s surface.

Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

Another common form of dermatitis is called atopic dermatitis–more commonly known as eczema. Eczema often causes seasonal flare-ups but can be managed under the care of your dermatologist. People who suffer from eczema notice itchy, dry, red patches of skin that most often appear between creases where the body naturally bends. For example, eczema is common in the:

  • Armpits
  • Elbows
  • Knees
  • Neck/Below chin
  • Eyelids
  • Between fingers/toes

The main cause of Dermatitis

Depending on the type of dermatitis you are suffering from, the underlying cause of the condition will vary. Here’s a run-down of possible causes of the most common types of dermatitis:

Causes of Seborrheic Dermatitis (Dandruff)

Dandruff dermatitis is often caused by a yeast or fungus that is found in the natural oil production of your skin.

Causes of Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis, which is the result of making contact with something the skin is sensitive to, is actually caused by an allergic reaction. Some of the most common triggers for this kind of dermatitis include certain perfumes, some jewelry, cleaning products, certain creams and lotions, poison ivy, and other skin irritants and allergens.

Causes of Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

Eczema is most likely related to a genetic mutation in the skin, an immune system dysfunction, exposure to certain allergens, a skin infection, or naturally dry skin. Doctors are currently unsure of the exact cause of eczema, but at least one of the above-mentioned causes is likely a contributing factor.

What foods can cause Dermatitis?

There are certain foods that are commonly associated with skin flare-ups for dermatitis conditions. Dermatitis foods to avoid include:

  • Nuts
  • Citrus fruits
  • Eggs
  • Soy products
  • Dairy products
  • Some spices(including cinnamon and cloves)
  • Tomatoes
  • Wheat or gluten products

The potential first sign of Dermatitis

Irritation to the skin caused by dermatitis can take very different forms depending on the exact type of dermatitis a person is experiencing. Additionally, dermatitis can affect different areas of the body, which may have an impact on how the condition presents. The condition often takes the form of one or more of the following signs and symptoms of dermatitis:

  • Dry skin
  • Skin redness
  • Itching skin
  • Rashy-looking skin
  • Skin blistering
  • Crusting on the skin
  • Oozing from skin blisters
  • Dandruff
  • Flaking skin

What does Dermatitis look like?

If you notice any of the below symptoms of dermatitis, you should schedule a visit with a trusted dermatologist to examine your skin and offer treatment options for dermatitis:

  • Redness
  • Itching
  • Patches of skin
  • Rashing
  • Thickened skin
  • Stinging
  • Sudden changes in your skin
  • Dandruff
  • Skin that flares up occasionally
  • Hair follicle bumps
  • Crusty skin
  • Irritated skin on the elbows or behind the knees

How long does contact Dermatitis last?

Contact dermatitis usually lasts between two and four weeks. In most cases, the rashing, redness, and other symptoms will appear within minutes or hours after your skin made contact with the allergen. The rash is typically sensitive and bothersome for at least a couple weeks and then begins to heal.

Can hot water make Dermatitis worse?

Most dermatologists recommend using cool or warm water on the skin affected by dermatitis. Soaking in a cool tub when the skin is irritated can help calm the symptoms of dermatitis and allow the body to soak in water and stay hydrated. On the other hand, hot water should be avoided because it could cause the skin to become even more dried out and further aggravate your symptoms.

How to get rid of Dermatitis on your face

Facial dermatitis can be calmed using the following tips:

  1. Wash the face using cool or warm water
  2. Keep your skin hydrated using a dermatologist-recommended facial cream
  3. Avoid harsh skin cleansers that can irritate the skin
  4. Use protective UV-blocking sunscreen
  5. Use facial cosmetic products that are dermatologist-recommended
  6. Consider your dermatologist’s treatment options, including phototherapy

What is the best treatment for Dermatitis?

Consult a dermatologist about your specific dermatitis condition to understand which treatment options may be right for you. Some of the currently available dermatitis treatment options from a dermatologist may include:

  • Dermatologist-prescribed ointments, creams, or gels
  • Dermatitis phototherapy
  • Corticosteroids (pills or injections) for severe dermatitis
  • Calcineurin inhibitor creams

If you are experiencing symptoms of dermatitis that are interfering with your quality of life, a consultation with an experienced dermatologist may be the first step towards helping restore the appearance and health of your skin. At Dermatology Treatment and Research Center, our board-certified physicians hold expertise in clinical, cosmetic, and general dermatology and are ready to provide you with high-quality expert care in a friendly and compassionate atmosphere. Call 972.661.2729 or fill out the form on this page to book an appointment.