About 10% of people in the United States suffer from eczema, a chronic skin condition that causes itching, flaking, scaling, redness, and oozing, along with tiny bumps that look like miniature pimples. Eczema presents challenges no matter where it shows up, but when it affects your face, it can be especially embarrassing.
At Luminary Dermatology, Dr. Michael Foss and our team offer advanced eczema treatment to help patients manage symptoms of eczema wherever it occurs. To mark Eczema Awareness Month, we’re dedicating this post to helping our patients learn some simple tips for managing uncomfortable facial eczema.
When eczema happens on your arms or legs, you can limit exposure to irritants and allergens by protecting your skin with clothing. But when eczema is on your face, it’s not so easy. Instead, it’s important to learn to identify your triggers and then do all you can to avoid them or at least limit your exposure.
Facial eczema shares many of the same triggers as eczema that affects other areas of your body. Animal dander, pollen, and pollution are common environmental triggers, and cleansers, moisturizers, and even makeup can cause eczema flare-ups too. Keeping an “eczema journal” can help you identify your unique triggers so you can avoid exposure.
Because eczema breaks down your skin’s natural barrier, you need to take extra steps to protect your skin and, ideally, maintain that barrier, too. Moisturizing regularly is critical, particularly after showering, washing your face, or swimming. Use a lightweight moisturizer during the day and a thick product while you sleep.
Choose facial cleansers and moisturizers that are designed for sensitive skin, and pay careful attention to the effects of makeup, focusing on products that won’t irritate your skin or clog your pores.
Use sunscreen regularly to prevent your skin from drying out, and consider using a humidifier during the winter to moisten dry indoor air.
Topical medications help provide immediate relief for itching, scaling, and redness. Medications containing corticosteroids are especially effective in combating inflammation and itching. Other medicines help calm the overactive immune system response that triggers eczema symptoms.
Oral medications are usually considered when topical preparations are ineffective in providing long-term relief. Antihistamines, medications to suppress your immune system reaction, and special biologic medications provide specific benefits based on your skin’s unique needs and the symptoms you’re experiencing.
Phototherapy is another potential option, particularly when topical medications and lifestyle changes, like switching facial products, aren’t providing adequate relief. Phototherapy involves using doses of light to trigger responses inside your skin.
These responses help reduce inflammation, so your skin is more comfortable and clearer. Light therapy involves both ultraviolet B (UVB) light and ultraviolet A (UVA) light combined with a compound called psoralen.
Finally, if you have eczema on your face or anywhere else on your body, regular dermatology visits are the key to feeling better and keeping your skin healthy and comfortable. Having regular visits gives our team the opportunity to evaluate your skin and adjust your therapy so it remains as effective as possible, even as your skin’s needs change.
Regular office visits also ensure your treatment remains on track with the most recent advances in eczema care. And of course, it allows us to help you make important lifestyle changes to support optimal skin health.
Facial eczema can definitely pose some challenges, but with the right skincare routine and therapies tailored to your needs, you can enjoy a clearer complexion and a more comfortable experience.
To learn how we can help, book an appointment online or over the phone with Dr. Foss and the team at Luminary Dermatology at one of our offices in Arcadia, Miami, Homestead, Sarasota, Venice, Longboat Key, Bradenton, and Northport, Florida, and Midwest City, Oklahoma.