Improving My Skin
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Improving My Skin

After I started working full time, I realized that the stress wasn't doing nice things to my skin. Instead of my typical glowing appearance, I was left with splotchy, uncomfortable, pimple-ridden skin. I didn't like how it looked or felt, which is why I decided to see about visiting a dermatologist. It was amazing to see how well he cared for me after I went. He felt my skin, gave me some advice on daily cleaning, and talked with me about which medications might help. I was absolutely blown away with how much of an improvement he helped me to achieve. This blog is all about the wonders of modern day dermatology.

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Improving My Skin

Topical Eczema Treatment For The Eyelids

Phillip Lucas

Also known as atopic dermatitis, eczema can affect any part of the body, and it causes skin itchiness, inflammation, and redness. Sometimes accompanied by allergies and asthma, eczema can also develop without any preexisting conditions. Eczema can develop in people of all ages, however, eczema of the eyelids may be more common in adults. Here are some effective eczema treatments for atopic dermatitis of the eyelids.

Topical Corticosteroid Ointments

Mild strength corticosteroid ointments help relieve eczema manifestations of the eyelids. They can be purchased without a prescription at any pharmacy. However, you should check with your doctor to determine which strength is best for you. While topical corticosteroid ointments are very effective treatments for eyelid eczema, they should be used sparingly.

The skin on your eyelids is thinner than the skin on your face, and because topical corticosteroids can cause further thinning of the skin, only the lowest concentration should be used. If your corticosteroid ointment is ineffective in treating your symptoms, see your dermatologist who can recommend an alternative treatment option. Corticosteroid ointments are considered very safe for most people who use them, however, certain people may develop mild skin irritation or minimal redness on the areas in which the ointment is applied. 

Calcineurin Inhibitors

Topical calcineurin inhibitors such as tacrolimus, are also called TCIs. Like topical corticosteroids, TCIs are very effective in treating the itching, swelling, and redness of eyelid eczema. However, unlike topical corticosteroid ointments, TCIs do not thin your eyelid skin. They cannot be purchased over-the-counter, but your dermatologist can write you a prescription. TCIs may cause mild photosensitivity, which means that your eyes may become sensitive when exposed to bright light, especially sunlight.

Topical calcineurin inhibitors may also cause mild stinging or burning sensations when initially applied, however, this is considered normal and will resolve in a week or so. As with all topical eczema eyelid treatments, wash your hands thoroughly before applying your TCI medication and avoid using cosmetics such as eye shadow and mascara until your eyelids have healed. Your dermatologist may recommend using your TCI medication for a month or more and they can safely be used on a long-term basis.

If you develop any of the above symptoms of eyelid eczema, make an appointment with your dermatologist. After a complete examination, they will recommend a treatment option to suit your needs. It is also important to note that eyelid eczema does not typically cause vision problems, however, if you do experience blurred vision, tell your dermatologist, who may refer you to an eye doctor for further evaluation. 

Contact a dermatologist that offers eczema treatment for more information.


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