Eczema Treatment in Sarasota, FL

Are you struggling with the discomfort and frustration of eczema? SkinSmart Dermatology®, which has served patients in Sarasota for two decades, offers tailored treatment options to help you achieve relief and healthier skin.
Our team of experienced medical dermatology specialists is committed to providing unmatched care. Whether your eczema is mild or severe, we are here to help you find an effective solution and regain confidence in your skin.
What is Eczema?
Eczema is a common skin disorder characterized by itching and a red rash. It is particularly common in infants and young children.
Eczema most often develops as a result of an allergic reaction or an immune-system malfunction. It can cause irritation and inflammation anywhere on the body but is especially prevalent on the face, the insides of the arms, and behind the knees. In infants with eczema, the scalp is frequently affected.

Types of Eczema
There are several types of eczema, each with unique triggers and symptoms. Here are the most common ones.
Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is the most common, chronic, and severe form of eczema. It occurs most often in people with other allergic conditions, such as asthma or hay fever, and in families with the same issues. Symptoms include dry, itchy skin and red, inflamed patches.
Contact Dermatitis
This type results from direct contact with an irritant or allergen. Signs include redness, swelling, and itching at the contact site.
It can be divided into two types:
- Irritant Contact Dermatitis: Triggered by substances like detergents or harsh chemicals.
- Allergic Contact Dermatitis: Results from allergic reactions to substances like fragrances or metals.
Dyshidrotic Eczema
This form causes small, itchy blisters on the hands and feet. Triggers include stress, exposure to metals, or excessive sweating. It is generally more common in women than men.
Nummular Eczema
Nummular eczema appears as coin-shaped spots on the skin. Spots can be itchy and ooze fluid. It is often triggered by dry skin, insect bites, or injuries.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
This form affects oily areas of the body, like the scalp, face, and upper chest. Symptoms include scaly patches, redness, and dandruff.
Stasis Dermatitis
Stasis dermatitis affects the lower legs as a result of poor circulation. Symptoms include swelling, redness, and scaling. It's often seen in people with varicose veins or other circulatory issues.
Neurodermatitis
This type is triggered by repetitive scratching of the skin. It leads to thick, scaly patches that are intensely itchy and is often linked to stress or anxiety.
Eczema Causes

The precise cause of eczema is unknown. However, certain substances or circumstances can trigger symptoms in susceptible individuals.
Patients with eczema may have adverse skin reactions to many common household products, such as soaps, perfumes, lotions, detergents, and animal dander. They may also develop eczema outbreaks due to upper respiratory infections. In some cases, eczema may result from a food allergy.
Although eczema is quite common in infants, most outgrow it by age two. For infants prone to outbreaks, it is best to avoid using products or fabrics that may irritate their skin and to avoid feeding them foods that seem to precipitate reactions.
For adults, too, the best treatment for eczema may be prevention. By avoiding triggers such as coarse fabrics, extreme heat or cold, animal dander, and certain soaps or detergents, patients may be able to keep outbreaks at bay. Although stress is often a factor that worsens the condition, eczema itself, with its discomfort and displeasing appearance, can also be a cause of stress.
Diagnosing Eczema
Eczema is diagnosed through physical examination and patient consultation. The attending doctor must also take a full family history. Because many people with eczema have other allergies, allergy tests may be prescribed or performed to target possible triggers.
Eczema Treatments
There are several treatments available to ease the discomforts of eczema.
Cold compresses and over-the-counter preparations to address itching may be recommended. If symptoms persist or become more severe, stronger medications may be prescribed.
It is important to treat eczema symptoms because the condition breaches the integrity of the skin, allowing bacteria to invade and cause infection. Itching has to be addressed because scratching can lead to crusting and scabbing of the skin, further breaking down tissues and increasing the risk of infection.
Treatment of eczema may include the following:
- Antihistamines
- Topical corticosteroids
- Changes in bathing and laundering habits
- Antibiotics (if infection is present)
- Immunomodulators (such as cyclosporine)
Because immunomodulators have been linked to an elevated risk of cancer, they are usually prescribed only during severe flare-ups and for children older than two years of age.
FAQs
How Do I Know if I Have Eczema or Psoriasis?
Eczema and psoriasis have distinct characteristics, causes, and treatments. Here's a breakdown of the key differences.
- Cause
- Eczema often results from an overactive immune response to environmental irritants or allergens.
- Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder. It occurs when the immune system increases skin cell multiplication.
- Appearance
- Eczema typically presents as red, inflamed, and itchy patches. It often affects areas like the hands, feet, inside of elbows, and behind knees.
- Psoriasis appears as thick, silvery-white scales or plaques on red, inflamed skin. It commonly affects the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.
- Age of Onset
- Eczema often begins in childhood and may improve or persist into adulthood.
- Psoriasis can develop at any age. However, it most often appears in adulthood (ages 15–35).
Are There Any Lifestyle Changes That Can Help Control Eczema?
Lifestyle changes can control symptoms and improve skin health for many patients. Examples of positive changes include:
- Moisturizing Regularly: Use a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer at least twice daily, especially after bathing.
- Avoiding Known Triggers: These could include irritants like harsh soaps, fragrances, or wool fabrics.
- Using Gentle Skincare Products: Use mild, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic cleansers. Avoid products with alcohol, dyes, or preservatives.
- Taking Lukewarm Baths and Showers: Hot water can worsen irritation and dry out the skin.
Why Choose SkinSmart Dermatology?
Founded in 2005 by Dr. Elizabeth Callahan, a double-board-certified expert in Dermatology and Mohs Micrographic Surgery, SkinSmart Dermatology is Sarasota's premier destination for comprehensive skin care, including eczema treatment.
Our 10,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility provides advanced medical and aesthetic dermatology treatments. With nearly 40 dedicated staff members, we tailor eczema treatments to each individual's unique needs, delivering effective solutions that enhance skin health and well-being.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
If you have eczema and are seeking treatment, visit SkinSmart Dermatology. Our providers, including Dr. Elizabeth Callahan, are experienced in treating eczema and are committed to serving the Sarasota community.
We treat a wide variety of skin problems and care for every individual patient with a personal touch. Schedule an appointment by calling 941-308-7546 or filling out the form on our contact page.