Are you suffering from the discomfort of dermatitis – characterised by dry, inflamed, and itchy skin? Gilbride Pharmacy is here to provide you with expert guidance on effective, over-the-counter dermatitis treatment options.
Management
Dermatitis, also commonly known as eczema, is typically managed through a combination of two key approaches:
1. Emollients: These include cleansers and moisturisers specifically designed for extremely dry and sensitive skin.
2. Topical Corticosteroids: Medicated creams and ointments applied directly to the affected areas.
For individuals with atopic dermatitis, it is advisable to apply emollients daily and reserve the use of topical corticosteroids for flare-up periods.
The treatment approach for various types of dermatitis is quite similar, focusing on the application of medicated treatments and moisturisers to the affected skin. In certain instances, these treatments may prove insufficient, and a specialised treatment approach may be required.
Treatments
Emollients Regular use of emollients is crucial for managing atopic dermatitis. This recommendation also applies to other forms of dermatitis such as contact or nummular dermatitis.
Emollient moisturisers come in various forms, including lotions, creams and ointments. They serve to maintain skin softness, reduce itching and alleviate inflammation. Proper and liberal use of emollients can reduce the need for topical corticosteroids.
Ointments, being rich in fats, are thicker and provide intensive moisturisation for extremely dry skin. For skin that is less dry or covered in hair, a lighter emollient like lotion or cream is preferable.
Emollient cleansers, such as bath oils and milks, can be added to bathwater to soften and soothe the skin during bathing. They are a gentle alternative to soap-based products, which can irritate and dry out the skin.
When purchasing an emollient, it's advisable to seek advice from our experienced pharmacists. Dermatitis-specific emollients are typically fragrance-free and tailored for sensitive skin. One recommended option is the Grahams Natural C+ eczema and dermatitis cream, known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Topical Corticosteroids Following emollients, topical corticosteroids play a pivotal role in managing dermatitis symptoms. By using emollients daily and avoiding potential triggers, you can potentially reduce the frequency of symptoms like itching, redness and soreness.
During flare-ups, topical corticosteroids, which come in the form of creams and ointments containing steroids like hydrocortisone and clobetasone butyrate, can be applied to the affected skin. It's generally recommended to apply an emollient first, allowing it to soak in for 30 minutes before using the medicated cream. Typically, topical corticosteroid treatment only needs to be used for a few days to yield results.
Certain mild to moderate topical corticosteroids, including hydrocortisone cream and eumovate, are available over-the-counter.
Medicated Shampoos For individuals dealing with seborrhoeic dermatitis affecting the scalp, medicated shampoos serve as the primary treatment. As seborrhoeic dermatitis is believed to be triggered by a reaction to yeast on the skin, your pharmacist or doctor may recommend over-the-counter anti-yeast shampoos like nizoral or selsun.
- Nizoral: Helps address scalp inflammation leading to dandruff.
- Selsun: Reduces scalp greasiness and slows down excessive skin cell growth on the scalp.
Coal tar shampoos can also be beneficial for dryness, itching and flaking. Popular options include Neutrogena T/Gel and Polytar. In cases of very scaly scalp, a medicated shampoo containing salicylic acid may be necessary to remove built-up skin.
Please note that despite being called shampoos, these products are not meant for hair cleaning. They should be applied as treatments and left on for five to ten minutes before rinsing off.
Wet Soaks Individuals with pompholyx/dyshidrotic dermatitis, characterized by blisters on the hands and feet, may require wet soaks as a treatment. This involves soaking the affected hands or feet in a medicated solution, typically containing potassium permanganate.
Antihistamines For those with atopic dermatitis or nummular dermatitis (discoid eczema), itching can be a common issue. Oral antihistamines may be recommended to help alleviate itching. If itching is disrupting your sleep, your doctor may prescribe sedative antihistamines to aid in sleeping.
Medicated Bandages and Wet Wraps In cases of severe itching and dryness, wrapping the skin in bandages or wet wraps can be helpful. These treatments moisturise the skin, reduce inflammation, itching and cracking and prevent scratching that can damage the skin. These bandages and wraps often contain emollients and medicated treatments such as coal tar and topical corticosteroids. If you have a skin infection, it's essential to avoid using bandages or wet wraps.
Other Treatments
If the aforementioned treatments do not effectively control your dermatitis symptoms, it may be necessary to explore alternative approaches. In severe cases, your doctor may refer you to a dermatologist for specialised care. Severe dermatitis can be addressed with treatments like:
- Phototherapy (Involves directing ultraviolet light at the affected skin)
- Corticosteroid Tablets
- Immunosuppressants and Immunomodulators
- Alitretinoin (Specifically used to treat eczema on the hands and feet)
Consulting Your GP
In many cases, mild dermatitis symptoms can be managed without visiting a doctor. Applying plenty of emollients is often sufficient. For those experiencing intermittent itching and soreness, mild to moderately potent topical corticosteroids are available over-the-counter at our pharmacy.
Prescription-strength dermatitis treatments should only be obtained from your GP.
It is advisable to consult a doctor when you initially experience dermatitis symptoms or if you struggle to control your symptoms effectively. Regular use of topical corticosteroids may indicate that your condition requires prescription-strength treatment.
Visit Us
Select your preferred Gilbride Pharmacy branch to visit their page and inquire about this service or simply walk in when it suits your schedule. We are committed to protecting your health and well-being.