Atopic Dermatitis Treatment in Salt Lake City, UT

A senior woman having her arm looked at by a professional by Swinyer Woseth Dermatology

Do You Have Atopic Dermatitis? Relieve the Urge to Scratch

If you have atopic dermatitis, you may feel like you’re constantly battling your own skin. The intense itching, red patches, and overwhelming urge to scratch can make you long for relief. Fortunately, you can find it at Swinyer Woseth Dermatology in Salt Lake City and South Jordan, UT. We understand your challenges and provide comprehensive eczema treatment, offering personalized care plans to help you manage symptoms and achieve healthier skin. This guide will help you understand atopic dermatitis and provide skincare tips to manage itching and find lasting eczema relief.

What Is Eczema?

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition affecting millions of people. It causes the skin to become dry and itchy. But unlike other skin problems, atopic dermatitis tends to come and go in flare-ups, with periods of clear skin followed by times when symptoms return.

The word “atopic” refers to a group of allergic conditions that often run in families. People with atopic dermatitis frequently have other allergic conditions like asthma or hay fever. The skin barrier in people with eczema doesn’t work as well as it should, making it harder to keep moisture in and irritants out.

Who Can Get Eczema?

Atopic dermatitis can affect anyone, but it most commonly begins in childhood. About 60% of people with eczema develop it before their first birthday, and 90% develop it before age five. However, adults can also develop atopic dermatitis for the first time. Several factors increase your risk of developing eczema:

Family History – If your parents or siblings have eczema, asthma, or allergies, you’re more likely to develop atopic dermatitis.
Environmental Factors – Living in areas with pollution, cold climates, or low humidity can trigger eczema.
Allergies – People with food or environmental allergies often develop eczema.
Immune System Issues – An overactive immune response can lead to the inflammation seen in atopic dermatitis.

Common Eczema Symptoms

Recognizing atopic dermatitis symptoms helps you seek appropriate treatment sooner. The most common signs include:

Intense Itching – This is usually the first and most bothersome symptom. Itching often gets worse at night and can interfere with sleep.
Red, Inflamed Patches – These patches typically appear on the face, neck, hands, feet, and in the creases of elbows and knees. In babies, the face and scalp are commonly affected.
Dry, Scaly Skin – Dry, scaly skin feels rough and may appear grayish on darker skin tones. The skin may also crack, especially around joints.
Small, Raised Bumps – Bumps can appear and may leak fluid when scratched. These areas can become infected if bacteria enter through broken skin.
Thickened Skin – Thick skin develops in areas that are scratched repeatedly over time. This condition, called lichenification, makes the skin appear leathery.

Understanding the Eczema Itch-Scratch Cycle

The itch-scratch cycle is one of the most challenging aspects of managing atopic dermatitis. Eczema causes itching, which leads to scratching. Scratching then damages the skin barrier, causing more inflammation and itching. This creates a cycle that can be difficult to break, but understanding it is crucial for effective eczema relief.

Why You Shouldn’t Scratch

WScratching provides temporary relief, but it ultimately makes atopic dermatitis worse. Resisting the urge to scratch is essential for healing and long-term eczema relief. Scratching can:

Damage your skin barrier, making it easier for bacteria and irritants to enter
Increase inflammation, leading to more severe symptoms
Cause infections when bacteria enter through scratched areas
Create permanent scarring in severely affected areas
Thicken the skin over time, making it harder to treat

What to Do When Your Eczema Itches

When the urge to scratch strikes, try these immediate relief strategies:

Apply a cool compress to the itchy area for 10-15 minutes. Cold helps numb the itch sensation and reduces inflammation.
Use prescribed medications as directed by your dermatologist. Topical treatments work best when applied to slightly damp skin.
Try the “pat and press” method instead of scratching. Gently pat or press the itchy area with a clean cloth or your palm.
Take a cool bath with colloidal oatmeal or baking soda. These ingredients can help soothe irritated skin.
Apply moisturizer immediately after bathing while your skin is still slightly damp to lock in moisture.
Distract yourself with activities that keep your hands busy, like squeezing a stress ball or playing with a fidget toy.

Tips for Lasting Eczema Relief

These skincare tips can help you achieve better control your atopic dermatitis:

Moisturize Regularly – Use thick creams or ointments rather than lotions. Apply moisturizer at least twice daily and immediately after bathing.
Choose Gentle Products – Look for products labeled “for sensitive skin” or “hypoallergenic.” Avoid those with fragrances, dyes, or harsh chemicals.
Take Short, Lukewarm Baths – Opt for lukewarm baths instead of long, hot showers. Hot water strips natural oils from your skin.
Identify and Avoid Triggers – Common triggers include certain fabrics, soaps, stress, and temperature changes.
Wear Soft, Breathable Clothing – Avoid wool or synthetic materials that can irritate skin. Wear clothes made from cotton or other natural fibers.
Manage Stress – Stress can trigger eczema flare-ups in many people, so practice relaxation techniques, exercise, or go to counseling.
Keep Your Home Comfortable – Use a humidifier during dry weather and maintain moderate temperature levels in your home.

We Can Treat Your Eczema

Professional dermatitis treatment is often necessary for effective eczema management. At Swinyer Woseth Dermatology, we offer comprehensive treatment options, including:

Prescription topical medications to reduce inflammation
Oral medications for severe cases
Light therapy for stubborn eczema
Injectable treatments for moderate to severe atopic dermatitis
Customized skincare routines based on your specific needs.

Contact Us for Dermatitis Treatment Today

Effective eczema relief is possible with the right treatment approach and professional care like you’ll find at our clinics in Salt Lake City and South Jordan, UT. We can develop a personalized plan to manage your symptoms and help you achieve healthy skin, so contact us today to schedule a consultation.