Skin that is red and irritated is easy to spot. What can be challenging to determine is the cause of your outbreak. It could be acne, or it could be eczema. People often ask if someone with eczema and acne has any recommendations? Here’s how to determine what skin problem you have and how to treat it.
How similar are they?
Both are typical skin problems that can occur at any age. Each can flare up, disappear for a while, then reappear. Both skin problems can be stressful and embarrassing.
However, acne and eczema are not the same things.
Eczema
Eczema, often known as atopic dermatitis, is an autoimmune disease and it means it occurs due to a problem with your immune system. Doctors aren’t sure why it develops, but your skin doesn’t produce as many fats and oils as it should and struggles to retain moisture.
If it runs in your family or if you or any of your family members suffer from allergies, hay fever or asthma, you are more likely to get it.
Eczema can occur anywhere in the body. Especially babies and children tend to get it on their face. It can vary from person to person in appearance. Some people have rough, leathery skin, while others develop red or brownish-gray spots or small raised bumps on various parts of their bodies. Other symptoms include swelling, leaking, and crusting. However, itchy skin is the most common sign of eczema.
Acne
Acne affects the sebaceous glands under the skin. A pimple forms when the tunnels connecting these glands with small holes on the surface of your skin (pores) become clogged. These tumors can contain pus and cause discomfort.
Acne outbreaks are common on the face, neck, back and shoulders.
Acne is more likely if:
- Your parents both have acne.
- You are taking various medications, including steroids (powerful drugs that help with inflammation)
- You use oily makeup
- you are stressed
- Your hormone levels fluctuate (such as during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause)
Diagnosis
You don’t need a lab test to determine if you have acne or eczema. A dermatologist (skin doctor) can tell you this by examining your skin and asking about your family history.
Therapy
It is treated differently depending on the type of skin problem:
Acne
Your doctor will treat your acne and prevent new pimples from growing. The sooner you start therapy, the less likely you are to develop scars.
Acne can be treated with various medications. You apply it directly to your skin (this is known as topical medication), but if your acne is severe, you may need more essential medications. This may include taking an antibiotic for several months, taking high doses of vitamin A (isotretinoin), light therapy (exposing your skin to specific lights), or using chemical peels or facials to get rid of the pimples.
Eczema
There is no cure for eczema, but your doctor will try to relieve your pain and itching while also preventing your skin from deteriorating.
There are many prescription lotions available to relieve your symptoms. Some contain steroids, while others contain drugs that reduce inflammation or affect your immune system. If the itching is extreme, your doctor may prescribe an antihistamine (usually used to treat allergies).
“Wet wrap” therapy can also help relieve skin irritation. Wet dressings are applied to your skin to keep it moist and to facilitate the absorption of medicines. Light therapy, like acne treatment, can be beneficial for your skin.
Precautionary actions
Taking good care of your skin can help control eczema and acne. This recommendation may be helpful:
Be kind to yourself
Wash the skin twice a day and after strenuous exercise with a mild soap.
Take it easy
Scrubbing or using strong detergents can make the situation worse.
Avoid touching the region
If you have itchy eczema, try not to scratch. This can cause skin damage and infection. If you have pimples, avoid picking or popping them.
Protect yourself in the sun
Some eczema and acne medications make your skin burn faster. Don’t go out in the sun between 10 a.m., when the sun’s UVB rays are strongest. Use a mineral-based sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide if you have eczema. Acne sufferers benefit from a brand that is oil-free or “non-comedogenic,” meaning it won’t clog your pores.
Relax
Acne and eczema can both be made worse by stress and anxiety. Try meditation, yoga, tai chi classes, or learn other ways to relax.
Use the right product
If your skin problem is making you insecure, you may want to cover it up with cosmetics. However, you must use the right products. Some makeup can absorb oil, while others hide redness and make your skin smoother. Talk to your doctor about what is best for you.
You can make an appointment with the Best Dermatologist in Faisalabad without problems by Marham.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1- How can both be treated with the same medication?
Salicylic acid is occasionally used to treat acne and eczema. Salicylic acid softens keratin, a protein found in the skin, and can help loosen the dry, flaky skin associated with eczema.
2- Why does eczema break out on my face?
While there is no known reason, many factors, such as allergies, asthma, and a family history of eczema, can increase your chances of getting the condition.
3- What foods can help with eczema?
Dairy, whole grains, red meat, wheat and sugar are all restricted in anti-inflammatory diets, while vegetables and fish are prioritized. In reality, going vegan (or eating an almost completely plant-based diet) is also a viable option.
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