Dry, irritated skin associated with eczema

MEDICAL DERMATOLOGY

Eczema Treatment in Dubai

Understanding eczema, protecting the skin barrier and managing inflammation with appropriate medical care.

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Al Barsha Heights (Tecom), Dubai

♧Dryness

⠿Itching

≋Inflammation

What is eczema?

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition. It causes dry, itchy and sensitive skin that can flare up periodically. The skin barrier is often weaker, allowing moisture to escape more easily and making the skin more reactive to irritants and allergens.

Eczema can affect children and adults. It is not contagious and cannot be spread from one person to another.

Common signs and symptoms

≋Dry skin

♨Itching

●Red or inflamed
areas

⌁Rough or thickened
skin

⠿Flare-ups

⌁Cracks or
scaling

The skin barrier in eczema

In eczema, the outer layer of the skin loses moisture more easily and becomes more vulnerable to irritants, allergens and viruses. This can lead to dryness, inflammation and increased sensitivity.

Healthy skin barrier Illustration of a healthy skin barrier retaining moisture

Moisture is retained and the skin is better protected.

Eczema-prone skin Illustration of an eczema-prone skin barrier allowing moisture to escape

The skin barrier is weaker, allowing moisture to escape and irritants to penetrate more easily.

What can trigger eczema?

Eczema can be influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Common triggers include:

♧Harsh soaps
and cleansers

♜Fragrances and
certain skincare
products

♟Dust and
environmental
allergens

☼Heat, sweating
and climate
changes

▤Certain fabrics
(e.g. wool)

♨Frequent hand
washing and
detergents

♧Stress

۞Infections
(e.g. colds, viral
infections)

Be gentle with your skin

The skin absorbs what we put on it. Inappropriate skincare products can worsen eczema, leading to irritation, more dryness or more flare-ups.

♧Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers.
▤Choose moisturizers that are suitable for sensitive or eczema-prone skin.
♙Be cautious with exfoliating acids, active ingredients and multiple products.
♧If you are unsure about a product, ask for medical advice.

When should you consult a doctor?

It is recommended to consult a doctor if you:

✓Have persistent or recurrent eczema
✓Have significant itching or disturbed sleep
✓Notice signs of possible skin infection (e.g. increased redness, crusting or pain)
✓Are unsure about the diagnosis
✓Need advice on long-term management

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can eczema be cured?

Eczema is usually a chronic condition. While it cannot be permanently cured, symptoms can often be well controlled with appropriate medical care, skincare and trigger management.

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2. How can I reduce itching?

Keeping the skin well moisturized, avoiding known triggers and using the treatment advised by your doctor can help reduce itching. It is also important to avoid scratching, as this can worsen inflammation and damage the skin.

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3. What type of moisturizer is suitable for eczema-prone skin?

Thick, fragrance-free moisturizers and emollients are generally recommended. Your doctor can advise on the most suitable options for your skin type and condition.

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4. Can certain skincare products make eczema worse?

Yes. Products containing fragrances, exfoliating acids, strong active ingredients or multiple formulations can irritate sensitive skin and trigger flare-ups. If you are unsure about a product, it is best to ask for medical advice.

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5. Why does eczema often become worse at night?

Itching can be more noticeable at night due to reduced distractions, warmer skin temperature and the natural daily variation in inflammatory signals. This can affect sleep quality.

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6. Is eczema contagious?

No. Eczema is not an infection and cannot be spread from one person to another through skin contact, sharing towels or being in the same environment.

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7. When should I consider additional treatments beyond creams?

If eczema is persistent, frequently flares up, significantly affects your sleep or daily life, or if there are signs of skin infection, your doctor may discuss additional treatment options based on your individual situation.

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Consultation room at Medrose Medical Center

Eczema consultation at Medrose

Our doctors assess your skin, review possible triggers and create an appropriate management plan to help control your eczema and support healthier skin over time.

Book a Consultation →

♥Al Barsha Heights (Tecom), Dubai

Medical content prepared and reviewed by Dr. Nadjia Guergour.
Doctor of Medicine.