Eczema or atopic dermatitis is an uncomfortable chronic skin condition that many people have to deal with, whether kids or adults. It’s a fairly common ailment that affects people of all ages, with up to 30% of people in the United States having some form of dermatitis. It commonly affects the hands, feet, neck, and other parts of the body. The odds of atopic dermatitis occurring on the face are relatively rare, but it’s possible—and when it happens, the result can be highly uncomfortable.

Many patients with facial eczema experience a lot of distress because their symptoms are highly visible. Moreover, the skin on the face is particularly sensitive, which makes any flare-up feel significantly worse than on other parts of the body. People can feel itchy, sore, and uncomfortable when this condition acts up.

For most patients with facial eczema, flare-ups are only temporary and last a couple of weeks at most. Still, they have a high chance of recurring in the future. On the other hand, some people experience this condition for long periods and can suffer from it throughout their lives. Its effects can be devastating for one’s confidence, comfort, and overall quality of life. 

The condition can be limited to the face or a part of a more generalized type of dermatitis. It can be highly distressing to deal with either way. Fortunately, there are some ways to remedy the problem, such as reducing its symptoms and preventing flare-ups from recurring in the future. 

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Facial Eczema?

Like other types of dermatitis, facial eczema can look different from person to person. The most common signs and symptoms of this chronic skin condition include:

• Patches on the skin from red to brownish-gray
• Small, raised bumps that may leak fluids
• Itching, which can be more intense at night
• Raw, sensitive, or swollen skin
• Thickened, dry, scaly skin

Facial eczema typically begins in early childhood. Some people stop experiencing its effects later in life, but it may persist to adolescence or adulthood in others. It can flare periodically and clear up after a while.

If the skin develops blisters and becomes crusty or weepy, it may be a sign of an infection. When this occurs, it’s best to call the doctor right away.

What Causes Facial Eczema?

Research remains inconclusive regarding what causes facial eczema, but experts suggest that the immune system and the environment play a key role in the condition. When the body encounters environmental triggers, such as irritants, allergens, or stress, the immune system may overreact, inflame the skin, and cause an eczema flare-up.

Among the most common triggers that cause flare-ups are:

• Allergens
• Extreme temperatures
• Air pollutants, such as tobacco smoke
• Certain skincare products
• Fragrances and perfume
• Illnesses
• Infections from microorganisms
• Fabrics, such as polyester or wool
• Stress or anxiety

Facial eczema is not contagious, but parents can pass it on to their children via genetics. Women, people with asthma or hay fever, and those who have a family history of dermatitis are prone to having this condition.

What Can Help with Facial Eczema?

The current methods of providing facial eczema relief involve using drugs that suppress your immune system’s response to triggers. Other remedies include steroid injections or anti-inflammatory creams that can reduce inflammation. However, all of these can be expensive and only deal with the itch and rashes. They do not prevent flare-ups from recurring.

Biologics, a new class of medication, can help patients deal with facial eczema by blocking specific proteins involved in long-term inflammation. Only physicians can administer this form of relief as it involves injections and intravenous (IV) therapy.

Nowadays, there is a rising method to remedy facial eczema and other types of dermatitis, which is SmartLotion®. This product helps in relieving your symptoms, such as itchiness, redness, and inflammation. Moreover, it has an edge over other forms of relief because it helps prevent future flare-ups. It keeps the skin’s natural microbiome healthy, and its anti-inflammatory aspects are mild enough to be safe for everyday use.

Helpful Tips to Deal with Facial Eczema

Living with facial eczema is never easy, but there are things you can do to prevent or reduce its symptoms and improve your quality of life. Here are some tips for dealing with this chronic skin condition:

Tip #1: Identify Your Triggers

Identifying what causes your facial eczema flare-ups is key to dealing with the condition. It could be anything from pollen, smoke, dust, pet fur, certain fabrics, metals, the cold, or even being in the bath for too long. Looking for specific triggers can help you avoid them and prevent worsening your symptoms in the future.

Tip #2: Watch What You Eat

Although food isn’t a direct cause of flare-ups, many people with facial eczema also have food allergies. Having an allergic reaction can worsen the symptoms of eczema, so it’s always best to watch your diet. Consult a doctor if a certain type of food causes swollen lips, hives, or difficulty breathing. Your healthcare provider may identify the cause of the allergic reaction and help you avoid them.

Tip #3: Maintain a Healthy Environment

Many patients with the condition stay up all night because the itching and discomfort can make it difficult to sleep. If you experience symptoms at home frequently, it may be best to check your environment and keep it as eczema-friendly as possible. 

If you have pets, you may opt for allergy-blocking pillows and sheets to protect your sensitive skin. It may also help to wear appropriate clothing and keep the temperature at optimal levels to help you stay comfortable at home.

Tip #4: Ensure Your Skin’s Health

Keeping your skin healthy is one of the best ways to deal with dermatitis. It’s advisable to moisturize often, use fragrance-free products, and apply hypoallergenic sunscreen that’s good for sensitive skin. Make sure to avoid rubbing your skin vigorously with a towel after baths—pat it dry instead. Of course, applying topical eczema relief products can also benefit you.

Invest in the Best Eczema Relief Products

Dealing with eczema is never easy, especially when it affects such a prominent area like your face. Although physicians still have yet to find its exact cause, people who live with the condition can identify the triggers. Avoiding triggers, monitoring your diet, maintaining a healthy environment, and taking care of your skin can dramatically improve your quality of life.

If you’re looking for eczema remedies in the US, Harlan MD has you covered. SmartLotion® is currently the only product in the world that can provide relief for the condition and prevent future flare-ups from occurring. Shop now and get yours today!