Plagued by Itchy, Red Skin? It Could Be Eczema

It often starts as a minor irritation: a patch of skin that feels itchy for no clear reason, or an area that looks slightly redder than usual. You switch soaps, apply lotion, and hope it clears up on its own. But instead of fading, it flares again — and again.

These telltale symptoms may be signs of eczema, a common but often misunderstood skin condition. Living in this cycle of itchy, red skin can be frustrating, but understanding what eczema looks like and when to seek help can make a world of difference in how your skin feels. 

In this month’s blog, join our expert team at Sanford Dermatology as we take a closer look at eczema and its treatment options. 

What is eczema?

Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects people of all demographics. It weakens the skin barrier, making the skin more sensitive to irritants and allergens. As a result, skin becomes dry, itchy, red, and prone to symptom flare-ups.

Eczema isn’t contagious, and it’s not a result of poor hygiene. Instead, it typically stems from genetic issues, an errant immune response, and triggers like stress, weather changes, and certain skin care products.

Flare-ups don’t look the same on everyone. Some people experience mild dryness, while others deal with intense itching and visible rashes.

Common eczema symptoms include:

• Red or inflamed patches of skin
• Persistent itching, especially at night
• Dry, scaly, or cracked skin
• Thickened skin from repeated scratching

While these symptoms typically appear on the hands, arms, face, neck, or behind the knees, they can show up on almost any skin area.

Why scratching makes eczema worse

One of the hardest parts of eczema is resisting the urge to scratch. Unfortunately, scratching further damages the skin barrier, leading to increased inflammation and a higher risk of infection. This creates a cycle where itching leads to scratching, which leads to more itching.

Breaking that cycle is key to managing eczema — and that requires proper treatment. At Sanford Dermatology, our eczema treatment plans focus on calming inflammation, restoring the skin barrier, and identifying triggers that cause symptom flare-ups.

When over-the-counter products aren’t enough

Many people try to manage eczema with drugstore creams and home remedies. While these can help mild cases, persistent or worsening symptoms often require professional care.

Our dermatologists can quickly confirm whether your symptoms are eczema or another skin condition with similar features, like psoriasis. From there, we can recommend prescription treatments, medical-grade moisturizers, and lifestyle adjustments tailored to your skin.

Treatment plans often focus on consistency rather than quick fixes. With the right approach, many eczema patients experience fewer flare-ups and better overall control.

Why seeing a dermatologist matters

Eczema is highly manageable with expert guidance. In addition to treatments, we help you identify your specific triggers and provide tools to reduce inflammation and protect your skin long-term. Early treatment can also prevent complications such as skin infections and thickened skin from chronic scratching. 

If itchy, red skin is interfering with sleep, work, or daily comfort, it’s time to seek expert help. Schedule a visit at your nearest Sanford Dermatology office in Sanford, Pittsboro, or Lillington, North Carolina, today.