Have your Eczema Treatment in NYC by Dermatologist Debra Jaliman, MD
Dr. Jaliman consults with many patients at her office in New York City to review their medical history and customize a treatment strategy for eczema. Depending on the severity, she will develop an individualized approach to meet your health goals and help heal your skin. Various factors, such as the type of clothing fabric you wear, like wool or mohair, can exacerbate the itchiness of your skin. The type of body wash or soap you use is also crucial. The presence of a humidifier or air purifier at your home will be discussed by the doctor. With years of experience, she has many ways to help you manage this skin condition.
Understanding Eczema
What is eczema?
Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes redness, itching, and inflammation.
What causes eczema?
It’s caused by a combination of genetics, environmental triggers, and an overactive immune response.
What are the different types of eczema?
The main types include atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, nummular eczema, and seborrheic dermatitis.
Is eczema the same as atopic dermatitis?
Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema.
Who gets eczema?
Anyone can get eczema, but it’s more common in people with a family history of asthma, or allergies.
At what age does eczema occur?
Eczema can develop at any age. It can first develop in children, during adolescence, or even in adulthood. Some babies get eczema from food allergies, most commonly cow's milk. The allergens are whey and casein. Infants need to have their diet changed.
Is eczema contagious?
No, eczema is not contagious.
Symptoms & Diagnosis
What are the common signs and symptoms of eczema?
Itching, redness, dry patches, and sometimes blisters or crusting.
How is eczema diagnosed?
A dermatologist can diagnose eczema through a skin exam and a review of your symptoms and history.
Can eczema appear on the face or hands?
Yes, eczema can appear anywhere on the body, including the face and hands.
How do I know if I have eczema or something else, like psoriasis?
A dermatologist can help distinguish between eczema and other skin conditions based on your symptoms.
Triggers & Flare-Ups
What triggers eczema flare-ups?
Common triggers include allergens, harsh soaps, stress, weather changes, and fragrances. Nickel found in jewelry or the snaps on your jeans can be a problem.
- Cold, windy weather.
- Dryness in offices can worsen the skin.
- Exposure to chlorine can be irritating.
- A skin infection can trigger a flare,
- Pollen allergies are triggers.
- Cosmetics with strong acids and chemicals.
- Fragrances can be found in any product. Choose fragrance-free products.
- Stress and anxiety can cause a flare-up.
- Sweating can worsen eczema.
- Fabric softeners are irritants. Alpaca balls are a great alternative to fabric softeners, as they provide a gentle and natural way to soften your clothes without causing any irritation or rashes.
- Opt for cotton underneath your sweater, and avoid certain fabrics that are irritating, like wool or mohair.
- Select laundry detergents without dye and perfume for sensitive skin to prevent flare-ups.
- Soaps and deodorant soaps can cause skin irritation.
- Use mild, super-hydrating soaps and body washes for sensitive skin.
Can stress cause or worsen eczema?
Yes, stress is a known trigger for eczema flare-ups.
Does diet affect eczema?
For some people, certain foods may trigger symptoms, especially if they have allergies.
Can weather changes cause eczema to flare?
Yes, both dry and cold weather can worsen eczema.
Can eczema be triggered by allergies?
Yes, allergies can trigger or worsen eczema in some people.
Treatment Options
How is eczema treated?
With moisturizers, prescription creams, antihistamines, and sometimes oral medications or biologics.
What is the best cream or lotion for eczema?
Thick, fragrance-free moisturizers are best; prescription creams may also be needed.
Are prescription medications necessary?
Often, yes—especially for moderate to severe cases.
Are there any natural remedies for eczema?
Oatmeal baths, coconut oil, and gentle skincare routines can help, but check with your doctor first.
Can light therapy or phototherapy help eczema?
Yes, it can be effective for chronic or severe eczema.
Are biologics used for eczema treatment?
Yes, Dupixent is a biologic approved for moderate-to-severe eczema.
Daily Care & Management
How should I care for my skin if I have eczema?
Use gentle, fragrance-free products and moisturize frequently.
What soaps, detergents, and products should I avoid?
Avoid scented, alcohol-based, and harsh chemical products.
How often should I moisturize?
At least twice daily, especially after bathing.
Should I take baths or showers if I have eczema?
Short, lukewarm showers or baths are better—followed immediately by moisturizing.
What fabrics are best or worst for eczema-prone skin?
Soft cotton is best; avoid wool and synthetic fabrics that can irritate.
Special Populations
Can babies or young children get eczema?
Yes, eczema often begins in infancy.
What should I do if my baby has eczema?
Use gentle moisturizers and speak to a pediatric dermatologist for guidance.
Is eczema common during pregnancy?
Yes, hormonal changes can trigger or worsen eczema.
Can eczema develop in adults for the first time?
Yes, adult-onset eczema is possible.
Lifestyle & Prevention
How can I prevent eczema flare-ups?
Avoid known triggers, moisturize regularly, and follow your treatment plan.
Does eczema go away with age?
It may improve with age, but some people have it lifelong.
Is eczema linked to asthma or allergies?
Yes, eczema is part of the “atopic triad” along with asthma and allergies.
Can exercise worsen eczema?
Sweat can irritate eczema, so shower and moisturize after exercising.
Advanced Concerns
What should I do if over-the-counter treatments aren’t working?
See a dermatologist for prescription options or advanced therapies.
Can eczema lead to skin infections?
Yes, broken skin can become infected, especially if scratched.
When should I see a dermatologist for eczema?
If symptoms are persistent, severe, or affecting your quality of life.
Are there long-term complications from eczema?
Chronic itching and scratching can cause skin thickening or scarring.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the skin affected by eczema?
Studies have indicated that individuals with eczema possess lower levels of filaggrin due to genetic differences. Filaggrin plays a crucial role in binding skin cells and strengthening the skin by connecting keratin filaments. People with eczema experience a loss of moisture and develop gaps between their skin cells, resulting in the formation of microscopic holes in the skin. Research on eczema has also shown that patients have fewer ceramides, which are natural substances responsible for retaining moisture and preventing dryness. To alleviate dry and peeling skin, it is recommended to apply oil, creams, or ointments after bathing or showering to provide relief.
How is the immune system affected?
Someone with eczema has an immune system that is overly sensitive and reacts to irritants in the environment and allergens.
What location does eczema occur in?
It can be seen as patches on the creases of the arms, legs, feet, toes, soles, knees, hands, palms, fingers, wrists, face, neck, hand, and chest. It can occur almost anywhere on the body.
What other conditions are associated with eczema?
It is associated with food allergies, hay fever, and asthma.
Are people with eczema more susceptible to contact dermatitis?
Contact dermatitis is an allergic dermatitis but people who have these skin conditions seem to be more susceptible. They often need to be patch-tested.
Who is an eczema specialist?
It is best to see a board-certified doctor or healthcare provider who specializes in dermatology for a consultation and to discuss your treatment options. They will answer all your questions, discuss any concerns you may have, and devise a treatment plan specifically for you. It may also be beneficial to see an allergist to determine what specific allergies you have and to provide more information on your condition and the specific irritant that is causing your reaction. They work as a team with dermatologists to give you advice, suggest changes in your environment to minimize allergens, and decrease the risk of another bad flare of your eczema. Dr. Jaliman is an eczema specialist. She has been helping patients with eczema for over thirty years.
What is dyshidrotic eczema?
This is a type of eczema that consists of tiny blisters on the hands or feet.
Is there a cure for eczema?
There isn't a cure for eczema. There are many effective treatments available
How do topical calcineurin inhibitors work?
Calcineurin is a protein that increases inflammation, redness, and itching in the skin. An inhibitor blocks it and improves the eczema. There are 2 available prescription topicals in the United States. One is called Elidel (pimecrolimus) cream and the other is Protopic (tacrolimus) ointment.
What eczema treatment is available?
- A moisturizer with ceramides to repair the barrier
- Hydrocortisone cream/ointment or other steroids
- Oatmeal baths
- Bleach baths
- Shorter showers with warm water instead of hot water
- Prescription topical medication
- Antihistamines to help with itching
- Injectable monoclonal antibodies
- New topical JAK inhibitor creams and medications
- Calcineurin inhibitors
- Phototherapy
- Light therapy
Call Dr. Debra Jaliman’s office at to schedule your appointment for eczema treatment today.