Dermatitis is a problem that can happen to anyone, whether you have sensitive skin that is sensitive to various substances or even those with underlying diseases such as allergies or chronic skin diseases. When dermatitis occurs, the skin feels irritated, red, swollen, itchy or even dry and flaky. This dermatitis problem often affects the quality of life because it not only makes you feel uncomfortable but also affects your confidence and daily life.
Treating dermatitis is not just about using creams or ointments to relieve symptoms. Proper care requires a diagnosis from a medical professional to find the real cause of the symptoms and an effective treatment approach. In this article, we will discuss the treatment approach for dermatitis from a medical professional’s perspective and what you should know to take care of your skin properly.
1. Understanding dermatitis
Dermatitis is a condition in which the skin becomes irritated and inflamed, often with visible swelling, redness, itching, or inflammation. There are several types of dermatitis that commonly affect people, including :
- Atopic Dermatitis ( Eczema ) : Often found in children and adults with a history of allergies, itching, dry skin and red rashes .
- Psoriasis : Rapid growth of skin cells causes the skin to thicken and flake .
- Contact Dermatitis : Caused by contact with irritants such as soaps, shampoos or chemicals.
- Fungal Dermatitis : Caused by a fungal infection on the skin, such as Tinea .
2. Treatment of dermatitis by a specialist
Treatment of dermatitis requires a proper diagnosis from a medical professional to find the real cause of the symptoms. Treatment includes medication and proper skin care, as well as some behavioral changes to prevent recurrence.
2.1 Use of topical steroids
One of the treatments for dermatitis that doctors often recommend is the use of topical steroids, which are drugs that have properties to reduce inflammation, reduce swelling and redness, and relieve itching quickly. There are many types of topical steroids and they vary in strength. The doctor will choose the drug that is appropriate for the severity of the symptoms.
The use of topical steroids must be under the supervision of a doctor because long-term use may cause side effects such as thinning of the skin or infection.
2.2 Use of antibiotics and antifungals
For dermatitis caused by infections such as bacteria or fungi, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or antifungal medications to help treat the condition. These medications include topical antibiotics or antifungal medications, which can help reduce infection and prevent the inflammation from spreading.
Treatment with antimicrobials or antibiotics should be strictly followed by a doctor to prevent possible side effects or drug resistance.
2.3 Use of antihistamines
If your dermatitis is caused by an allergic reaction to a substance, such as a chemical or irritant, your doctor may recommend an antihistamine to help reduce itching and prevent further irritation caused by the allergy.
Antihistamines can help relieve the itching that often occurs with atopic dermatitis or other allergies. They work by blocking histamine, a chemical that plays a role in triggering allergic reactions.
2.4 Use of skin care cream
In addition to medication, moisturizing the skin is also important in treating dermatitis, as dry or dehydrated skin can trigger more dermatitis.
Doctors often recommend that patients use a moisturizer that is rich in moisturizers and non-irritating. Look for a cream that is free of fragrances and harsh chemicals, such as one that contains aloe vera, shea butter, or glycerin.
2.5 Use of phototherapy
If dermatitis doesn’t respond to medication, your doctor may consider phototherapy , which uses ultraviolet ( UV) light to help reduce inflammation and stimulate skin healing. It’s often used to treat people with psoriasis or other chronic skin conditions.
Light therapy should only be performed under the supervision of a medical professional, as excessive exposure to UV light can damage the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer.
2.6 Behavior modification and avoidance of stimulants
Treatment of dermatitis is not just about taking medication, but also involves changing your behavior that can help reduce the risk of recurrence. This includes avoiding substances that may trigger dermatitis, such as soaps or shampoos that contain harsh chemicals, avoiding contact with allergens, such as dust or pollen, keeping your skin clean, and using protective gear against chemicals.
3. Prevention and post-treatment care
Post-treatment skin care is important to allow the skin to heal and prevent recurrence of inflammation. Apply a moisturizer after each treatment and avoid contact with chemicals or other triggers.
Treatment of dermatitis should not be just a temporary use of topical medication, but should be a continuous and comprehensive care to restore the skin to good health sustainably.
summarize
Treating dermatitis is a process that requires proper understanding and care from many aspects, not just using medications, but also choosing the right skincare products, avoiding triggers that may irritate the skin, and taking care of the skin consistently. Treating dermatitis requires careful and careful practices to allow the skin to heal and reduce the chances of future skin problems.
One of the most important factors in treating dermatitis is choosing the right skincare products for your skin type. Products with gentle ingredients and free of harmful chemicals can help nourish your skin and reduce irritation from using inappropriate products. Additionally, avoid triggers such as chemicals in skincare products, fragrances, or allergens that can cause more skin inflammation.
