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Eczema is a condition that causes the skin to become itchy, red, and inflamed. According to the National Eczema Association, over 55% of adults with moderate to severe eczema report inadequate disease control. If you have this condition, you know it can be frustrating and uncomfortable to deal with. Here is a list of common claims about people with eczema and the truth about these claims.

1. Your Skin Is Always Dry and Flaky

One major claim about people with eczema is that their skin is chronically dry and flaky. While it's true that dryness is a sign of this condition, the severity can vary. Many folks find that using moisturizers and avoiding triggers can keep flares under control. Your skin may feel smooth most of the time, even if you have a mild case. Don't believe that your skin is doomed to be a flaky mess. With proper care, you can maintain hydration and a healthy glow.

2. You Must Avoid Allergens and Irritants

Another assumption is that if you have eczema, you need to avoid anything that could possibly irritate your skin. That means steering clear of fragrance products, wool clothes, grass, pet dander, and more. However, the level of sensitivity can differ from person to person based on the type they have. While caution with irritants is wise, you may be able to tolerate more things than you think without triggering a flare. Get to know your unique triggers and don't panic if you occasionally encounter one.

3. Your Only Treatment Option Is Steroid Creams

Steroid creams and ointments are commonly prescribed for eczema, leading some to believe it’s the only real treatment option. There are many other ways to manage it besides steroids. For mild-to-moderate cases, there are non-steroidal prescription creams. Lifestyle changes like avoiding triggers, reducing stress, and moisturizing daily also go a long way. If those fail, newer injections, oral medications, or light therapy may help before resorting to steroids. Don't lose hope if steroids haven’t worked for you.

As you can see, many blanket claims about people with eczema don't tell the whole story. The condition varies in severity and trigger factors among individuals. While eczema can certainly be frustrating, there are plenty of management strategies to try. Now that you know some common myths, you can have more balanced, realistic expectations if eczema is part of your life. If you're dealing with this condition, schedule an appointment with The Dermatology Clinic P.A., and let us see how we can help you.