Dermatitis or eczema refers to a breakdown of the natural skin barrier and inflammation of the skin that leads to redness, itching, and irritation. If you're concerned about dermatitis, trust your skin to the experts at DERM Lab in North Vancouver.
Dermatitis is a general term for inflammation of the skin. It encompasses a variety of skin conditions characterized by redness, swelling, itching, and sometimes blistering or flaking. Various factors, including allergic reactions, irritants, genetic predispositions, infections, or underlying health conditions, can cause dermatitis. Â
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic condition that affects approximately 17% of Canadians. It causes red, inflamed, and itchy skin, sometimes accompanied by small, fluid-filled bumps (vesicles). Eczema can occur at any age, from infancy to adulthood. It is caused by genetic changes leading to skin barrier breakdown and inflammation. Atopic dermatitis can significantly impact your quality of life, leading to itching, discomfort, sleep disturbances, skin infections, and emotional distress.
Identifying the specific type of dermatitis and its triggers is essential for effective management and relief. Dermatologists make a diagnosis with a thorough evaluation of symptoms and medical history. Once diagnosed, they can recommend suitable treatment options to alleviate inflammation, itching, and discomfort.Â
Emollients, such as moisturizers or barrier creams, help repair the skin barrier, lock in moisture, and soothe dry, irritated skin. Regular emollient application can relieve itching and discomfort associated with dermatitis.
Dermatologists may recommend lifestyle modifications to avoid triggers and minimize dermatitis flare-ups. This may include identifying and avoiding allergens or irritants, practicing proper skincare routines with gentle cleansers and moisturizers, and managing stress to reduce the impact of dermatitis on daily life.
Traditionally, topical corticosteroids are applied directly to the affected skin to reduce inflammation and itching. We aslo have increasing non-steroid options, such as topical calcineurin inhibitors (Protopic ® or Elidel ® or phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE-4) inhibitors (Eucrisa ®, which may also be prescribed for certain types or body sites of dermatitis. Health Canada just approved a brand-new topical, Opzelura ®, which is a first of its kind topical JAK inhibitor for patients with atopic dermatitis.
Phototherapy involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet light in a controlled environment in a physician’s office, from artificial light sources like narrow-band UVB (NBUVB). This treatment helps reduce inflammation, suppress the immune response, and improve dermatitis symptoms, particularly in cases of severe or widespread involvement. Note that the bulbs used in tanning salons are UVA, which are more damaging to the skin and do not have the same dermatitis-relieving effect- stay away!
There are several Health Canada-approved prescription medications for moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. Systemic medications such as oral immunosuppressants, biologic agents, or Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors target inflammation and modulate the immune system. These medications are typically reserved for patients who do not respond to other treatments or have widespread or debilitating eczema symptoms. Your dermatologist can help you navigate whether these options are right for you.
Consulting a dermatologist ensures you receive personalized care, helping you regain healthy and comfortable skin. Dermatologists possess the expertise to accurately diagnose the type of dermatitis and develop customized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. By working with a dermatologist, you can access specialized treatments, ongoing support, and guidance to manage dermatitis and improve your quality of life. To get a referral to DERM Lab, consult with your family doctor, nurse practitioner, or another primary care physician and request to be referred to DERM Lab.Â
Take the first step towards managing your acne by requesting a referral to our experienced dermatologists. During your appointment, we will assess your condition, discuss your concerns, and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. Our dedicated team is committed to providing comprehensive care and support to help you achieve healthier, clearer skin and regain your confidence. Â