What to Do About This Skin Rash

Eczema is the medical term used to describe an itchy, inflamed, non-contagious skin rash. The most severe form is called atopic dermatitis. This skin rash is commonly diagnosed in young children and can sometimes be a life-long condition. It usually affects the insides of a person’s elbows, back of knees, and the face. A less severe form is contact dermatitis. This results when the skin comes directly in contact with substances that may irritate the skin such as household chemicals, soaps, fragrances, and tobacco smoke or if a person has an animal, plant, or food allergy.

Treatment involves avoiding things that may irritate the skin, moisturizing dry areas, and medications that decrease the itching. Steroids such as hydrocortisone and betamethasone (Beta-Val) can be applied directly to the skin to control the itching. Some steroids are available over-the-counter while certain others require a prescription. Antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) block chemicals that trigger itching and can be taken orally or applied to the skin. Tacrolimus ointment (Protopic) and pimecrolimus cream (Elidel) are prescription products used to suppress the immune system that causes flare ups. They are sometimes used when other medications have not worked for atopic dermatitis.
  
  
 
  
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