Understanding Eczema

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Eczema is actually not a singular disorder in itself, but rather, a group of conditions that cause the skin to become dry, itchy and inflamed. In more serious cases, the skin may also appear flaky, scaly, cracked and blistering. When scratched, the blisters may even start weeping and eventually scar.

The most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis, and this term is often used interchangeably with “eczema”.

Read on to find out more about:

Why does eczema occur?
What are the causes of eczema?
What are the types of eczema?

Why Does Eczema Occur?

In people with a healthy and intact skin barrier, external irritants remain outside the skin and moisture is effectively retained within the skin. In people with eczema, their immune system is overactive, which triggers an inflammatory response that damages the skin barrier. This results in skin that is dry, itchy and more prone to irritants and bacteria entering the skin, and moisture escaping the skin.

Eczema can sometimes also be triggered by environmental and psychosocial factors such as:

Allergens: Dust mites, mould, etc.
Foods: Dairy products, nuts, wheat, gluten, etc.
Irritants: Soaps, detergents, scratchy materials, etc.

High or low temperatures: Sweat or dryness can irritate the skin
Stress: Psychological stress and anxiety

Identifying potential triggers is key in helping you regain effective eczema control. Speak to our dermatologists today for a detailed examination.

For more information, call us at +65 6734 1411

What are the Types of Eczema?

The most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis; and other types include:

Contact Dermatitis

Dyshidrotic Eczema

Discoid Eczema (also known as Nummular Dermatitis)

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Stasis Dermatitis

Your Dermatology Care Team

Dr. Neoh Ching Yin

Dr. Cheong Wai Kwong

Dr. Phay Ken-Lin

Led by Dr Cheong Wai Kwong, Specialist Skin Clinic is an accredited dermatology clinic that has been serving both local and expatriate communities in Singapore for over 30 years. Situated in the heart of town (Orchard), the clinic is well-equipped, private, comfortable and accessible to all.

Joining Dr Cheong Wai Kwong are Dr Phay Ken-Lin and Dr Neoh Ching Yin, all of whom are particularly experienced in treating eczema, on top of all other medical and cosmetic dermatological conditions.

meet our specialists

With appropriate treatment, it is entirely possible to lead a good quality of life with eczema. We welcome you to drop by for a detailed and personalised assessment.

Thank you for choosing Specialist Skin. Please fill up the form below and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

1 Grange Road #06-04, Orchard Building, Singapore 239693

Main Line: (65) 6734 1411
Fax: (65) 6235 5900
Email: [email protected]

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