Eczema Treatment in Phoenix
We help control itching, flares, and skin irritation.
Eczema Treatment in Phoenix, AZ – Relief for Itchy, Inflamed Skin
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis (AD), is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects millions of children and adults in the U.S. Characterized by itchy, red, and inflamed skin, eczema can significantly affect your comfort, sleep, and quality of life. At Phoenix Surgical Dermatology Group, our board-certified dermatologists offer advanced eczema treatment in Phoenix for patients of all ages.
We combine clinical expertise with a personalized approach to help manage flares, soothe irritated skin, and prevent complications. Whether you're dealing with childhood eczema, adult-onset eczema, or stubborn chronic symptoms, our team is here to provide compassionate, evidence-based care.
What Is Eczema?
Eczema is a genetic, non-contagious skin disease marked by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It can appear anywhere on the body and often flares in response to environmental or lifestyle triggers. Up to 13% of children and 10% of adults in the U.S. are affected, with symptoms typically starting before age five.
Although many children outgrow eczema, others continue to experience sensitive, reactive skin into adulthood. Eczema varies in severity and may present as:
- Dry, scaly patches
- Red, inflamed skin
- Cracking or weeping blisters
- Thickened, lichenified skin from chronic scratching
What Causes Eczema?
Eczema is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors that disrupt the skin barrier and trigger an exaggerated immune response. Common contributing factors include:
- Genetics – Family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies
- Skin barrier dysfunction – Increased water loss and decreased protection against irritants
- Immune system dysregulation – Overreaction to allergens or environmental factors
- Environmental triggers – Such as irritants, allergens, temperature extremes, and stress
Common Eczema Triggers
Managing eczema means identifying and avoiding potential triggers. These may include:
Fragranced soaps, detergents, and skin care products
Synthetic or wool fabrics
Excessive sweating or heat
Dust mites, pet dander, pollen
Stress or emotional distress
Cold, dry weather
Hot showers or baths
Certain foods (especially in children)
What Are the Symptoms of Eczema?
Symptoms can vary by age and severity. Here’s how eczema typically appears:
- Infants: Itchy, red, scaly patches on the cheeks, chest, or scalp
- Children: Red, oozing patches inside elbows, behind knees, around the mouth or neck
- Adults: Thickened, dry, itchy areas on hands, wrists, eyelids, ankles, and flexural areas
Persistent scratching may lead to complications like:
- Skin infections
- Lichenification (skin thickening)
- Contact dermatitis
- Disrupted sleep patterns
How Is Eczema Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is based on:
- Detailed patient history, including family allergies or asthma
- Physical examination of skin lesions
- Exclusion of similar conditions, such as psoriasis or skin infections
- Patch testing for contact allergens, if necessary
Our dermatology providers will assess the
extent and severity of your eczema to guide treatment planning.
How Is Eczema Treated?
The primary goals of treatment are to relieve itching, reduce inflammation, repair the skin barrier, and prevent infection. Our approach may include:
1. Daily Skincare and Moisturization
- Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizers
- Lukewarm baths followed by emollient application
- Gentle cleansers
2. Topical Therapies
- Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
- Calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., tacrolimus)
- Crisaborole (Eucrisa®) for mild-to-moderate eczema
3. Systemic and Advanced Therapies
- Dupilumab (Dupixent®): Biologic for moderate-to-severe eczema
- Phototherapy (narrowband UVB)
- Short-term oral steroids for severe flares
- Immunosuppressants for stubborn disease
4. Lifestyle and Trigger Management
- Identifying and eliminating irritants
- Managing stress and improving sleep
- Treating co-existing allergies
Why Choose Phoenix Surgical Dermatology Group?
Board-certified and fellowship-trained dermatologists
Individualized eczema treatment plans for children and adults
Expertise in both mild and severe forms of atopic dermatitis
In-office procedures and ongoing support for chronic care
Frequently Asked Questions About Eczema
Is eczema contagious?
No. Eczema is not an infectious disease and cannot be spread from person to person.
Can eczema be cured?
While eczema is a chronic condition with no definitive cure, it can be effectively managed with the right skincare routine, medications, and trigger avoidance.
How do I know if I or my child has eczema?
If you or your child has persistent dry, itchy, inflamed patches of skin, especially with a history of allergies or asthma, it may be eczema. A consultation with a dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis.
Can stress cause eczema to flare?
Yes. Stress is a well-known trigger for eczema flares. Managing emotional stress is often a key part of eczema management.
What should I avoid if I have eczema?
Avoid hot water, fragranced skin products, harsh soaps, itchy fabrics (like wool), and environmental allergens like pollen or pet dander when possible.
Start Healing Your Skin Today
If you or your child is struggling with
itchy, irritated, or inflamed skin, trust the expert dermatology team at Phoenix Surgical Dermatology Group for effective, compassionate care. From
pediatric eczema to adult chronic atopic dermatitis, we’re here to help you find relief and restore your skin’s health.
