Glossary

Treatments used in place of or in addition to conventional medicine. They can include things like coconut oil, topical vitamin B12, meditation, and massage.

A chronic, inflammatory skin disorder that results in itchy skin and a red, scaly rash. Atopic dermatitis is the most common form of eczema and affects approximately 18 million adults and 9.6 million children in the US.

A biologic drug is a product that is produced from living organisms or contains components of living organisms.

An eczema treatment that involves bathing in a mild bleach and water solution to help reduce inflammation and the amount of bacteria on the skin.

Long-lasting or recurring over and over again. Eczema is an example of a chronic disorder.

A mixture made mostly from oil and water that is used on the skin. Creams can be either purchased over-the-counter (OTC) or prescribed by a doctor. Some creams may have steroids in them to help with eczema.

Type of protein that has an effect on the immune system and is involved in the underlying inflammatory process in many conditions or diseases, including eczema.

Inflammation of the skin.

A doctor who specializes in the treatment of skin disorders, including eczema.

A skin disorder that causes redness, itch, and rash.

When eczema symptoms worsen and is usually accompanied by itching, swelling, redness, oozing and bleeding.

A condition that originates inside the body as an immune response and results in swelling, redness, oozing, bleeding, and itching of the skin.

A treatment that uses ultraviolet light to treat eczema. Also called phototherapy.

A substance used to hydrate (increase the water content) of skin to help make it softer and more flexible.

A clear, thick, greasy substance that can be applied to the skin. Ointments can be either found over-the-counter or prescribed by a doctor. Many types of ointments are used to treat eczema.

Describes medicines that can be bought without a prescription—usually at a drug store or supermarket. They can include supplements, moisturizers, and hydrocortisone lotions.

Steroids (ie, corticosteroids) are hormones naturally produced in the body that affect the immune system and reduce inflammation. As a medicine, they are used for skin conditions such as eczema to reduce inflammation and itch.

Any sign or feeling that shows a person may have a disease or disorder. In eczema, common symptoms include redness, swelling, and itch.

Encompassing the entire body. Systemic medications are usually injected or taken orally.

Used on the surface of the skin. Creams and ointments are examples of topical medications. They can be found either over-the-counter or prescribed by a doctor.

Something that can cause eczema inflammation. Triggers can come from a substance outside or inside the body. Common triggers include dry skin, soaps, household cleaners, stress, and heat and climate.

Treating eczema by soaking pieces of fabric in water and applying it to the skin. It can often help reduce inflammation and help other eczema medications work better.