Dermatitis in Houston, TX

Dermatitis is one of the most common skin conditions that can affect men, women, and children at any time of year. In fact, individuals from all over the Greater Houston, TX area visit Advanced Dermatology for treatment all year round. Dermatitis is a general term for a condition that can present itself in many different ways. The most common symptoms include skin that is red, flaky, crusty, itchy, and sometimes with blisters.

Certain health conditions, diet, genetics, fabrics, allergies, and asthma can make you more susceptible to dermatitis. Make an appointment at any of our locations in Katy, League City, Pearland, or Sugar Land, TX. We will assess your skin's condition to determine what is causing the breakout and recommend an appropriate treatment for your dermatitis flare-ups.

Atopic Dermatitis
Also known as eczema, atopic dermatitis is a condition that causes the skin to become itchy and red. Men, women, and children can all have this skin rash, which can last for a long time and with recurrent flare-ups.

Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a very common rash that results from being exposed to irritants or allergens in your environment. This is a localized, superficial rash that is caused when a foreign substance comes in contact with the outer layer of the skin. 

Seborrheic Dermatitis
There are two types of seborrheic dermatitis — one for infants and one for adults. Also known as cradle cap, seborrheic dermatitis is a common scalp rash that forms on infants.

Adults with seborrheic dermatitis have red, scaly patches of skin that can also look moist (regardless of the constant flaking of the skin). The yellow or white flaking scales are naturally occurring and not from poor hygiene. These patches are mostly found on or around the ear, on the scalp, face (even eyelids), arms, upper torso, and genitalia.

A number of factors play a role in causing dermatitis. With atopic dermatitis, genetics, dry skin, bacteria, environmental factors, and immune system problems are the leading causes. Contact dermatitis is caused by an adverse reaction to certain products and substances, like soaps, detergents, jewelry, and cleaning materials. With seborrheic dermatitis, the condition could be connected to yeast found in the skin's oil secretion since symptoms are often dependent on the season.

Since there are several types of dermatitis, symptoms are often presented in different ways. Usually beginning in infancy, atopic dermatitis results in a red, itchy rash at the front of the neck, behind the knees, or inside the elbows. Contact dermatitis occurs when you come into contact with a substance that produces an allergic reaction or irritates your skin. It is a red rash that can itch, sting or burn, and possibly blister. With seborrheic dermatitis, reddened skin, scaly patches, and abundant dandruff are common.

Risk factors for dermatitis include a family history of eczema, allergies, or asthma, as these conditions often increase susceptibility. Environmental factors like exposure to harsh chemicals, soaps, or allergens such as pollen and pet dander can trigger or worsen dermatitis. Stress, hormonal changes, and extreme weather conditions can also contribute to flare-ups. People with sensitive skin or compromised immune systems are at a higher risk of developing this skin condition.

Dermatitis is typically diagnosed through a physical examination by a dermatologist. During an appointment at Advanced Dermatology, our professionals will assess your skin for visible symptoms and ask about your medical history, family history, and any triggers or allergens that may be causing flare-ups. In some cases, additional tests are performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out any other underlying conditions. Once a diagnosis is made, our team will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan to manage your symptoms and prevent future flare-ups.

Since every patient's dermatitis symptoms vary, the treatments can vary significantly and will be determined once our practitioners thoroughly assess your skin. In some cases, we may prescribe corticosteroid ointments to be used on affected areas. Some patients benefit from calcineurin inhibitors, which are creams or lotions that can improve immune system dysfunctions that lead to symptoms. Other patients benefit from light therapy treatments.

Can dermatitis go away on its own?
Dermatitis may go away on its own. Many people observe that it occurs in their teenage years but may disappear early into adulthood; however, it is often considered a chronic condition. Additionally, adults may experience that their dermatitis goes away for months or years but flares up again later.

What is the most common type of dermatitis?
Atopic dermatitis, or eczema, is the most common type of dermatitis, affecting approximately 25 million children and adults in the United States. There is no cure for eczema, but it can be heathily managed and treated with proper care.

What are the potential complications from untreated or unmanaged dermatitis?
Many potential issues may arise from dermatitis, but some of the most common include:

• Skin infections (both viral and bacterial)
• Insomnia
• Pink eye
• Inflammation of the eyelids
• Immune system difficulties

Dermatitis is usually painful and can greatly affect your well-being and quality of life to the point where daily activities can't be completed. To take control of your dermatitis and get your life back to normal, contact Advanced Dermatology to schedule your consultation as soon as possible.