What is Eczema?

Atopic dermatitis (Eczema) is a general term for an inflammatory skin disorder. This can be caused by some sort of allergic reaction or contact with an irritant. This condition can appear as young as infancy because it is a result of the skin becoming irritated due to something a person comes into contact with. The first step would be to begin to identify the source of irritation and avoid any contact with it if possible. Once the source of irritation is found, topical treatments such as physician prescribed cortisone creams or antihistamines. Persisting reactions can also be treated with ultraviolet B and A light therapy (phototherapy).

What is Hand Eczema?

Eczema is a very common skin condition and eczema of the hands is often a form contact eczema/dermatitis. This condition is very common among people with jobs involving cleaning, cook, hairdressing, healthcare and mechanical work can have an uncomfortable effect on the hands. The main symptoms of hand eczema include one or more of the following: redness, itching, pain, dryness, cracks, and blisters. Treatment may include corticosteroid or non-corticosteroid topical medications.

Phototherapy for Eczema

Phototherapy is a type of light therapy which uses a special kind of light to treat a condition. The most common type of phototherapy used to treat eczema is narrowband ultraviolet B (UVB) light, though broadband UVB, PUVA (psoralen and UVA) and UVA1 are other forms of phototherapy that can be used for eczema.

Phototherapy helps to reduce itching, calms inflammation, increase the production of vitamin D, and boosts bacteria-fighting systems in the skin. In general, patients will need steady treatment over 1-2 months to see an improvement in their eczema.

If you are living with rosacea and are looking for a way to combat symptoms, Phototherapy may be able to help. Contact Dr. Shauna Diggs’ office today to schedule a consultation.