What can I do if stress triggers my atopic dermatitis?
Managing stress and atopic dermatitis flare-ups If you live with atopic dermatitis (AD), you know stress can trigger flares. A recent survey by ESC showed that stress can be a very common trigger for itch among adults who live with AD. But avoiding stress in life can seem almost impossible… so what can we do? […]
Are ointments the best moisturizers?
Ointments vs. creams: Which Is better for moisturizing eczema? Are ointments better than creams when it comes to moisturizing? What is the difference between the two? It essentially comes down to water content. Ointments are typically oil-based, and can sometimes feel greasy, whereas creams are typically water-based and generally absorb more quickly into the skin. […]
What is the role of the skin barrier in people with atopic dermatitis?
Understanding the role of the skin barrier in atopic dermatitis The skin barrier is the outermost layer of the skin, and its role is to protect the body from irritants such as allergens and viruses, while also regulating water loss and skin hydration. In people with atopic dermatitis (AD), it is often said that they […]
My skin sometimes becomes discoloured after a flare – can this be permanent?
Understanding eczema-related skin discoloration: insights from Dr. Marissa Joseph One of the most common and visible symptoms of eczema is the discoloration of the skin. Skin discoloration can result from a loss of pigment, visible as lighter patches of skin (hypopigmentation), or an increase in skin pigment, visible as darker patches of skin (hyperpigmentation). A […]
Does atopic dermatitis itch more at night?
Why atopic dermatitis itch intensifies at night and how to manage it If you live with atopic dermatitis (AD), does it feel like the itch gets worse at night? Many report to ESC that the itch can make it challenging to not only fall asleep but stay asleep at night. This lack of sleep can […]
Can special diets cure eczema?
Special diets and eczema: insights from dermatologist Dr. Marissa Joseph When diagnosed with eczema, it is only natural to try to control symptoms by changing our diet, avoiding triggers, and making lifestyle changes to stop the itch and rash. But can these special or elimination diets actually cure eczema? Sadly, the answer is no. During […]
What’s new in atopic dermatitis (AD) treatment?
Exciting advancements in atopic dermatitis treatment Good news for the eczema community! Did you know there are currently more than 80 new treatments in development for the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD)? New developments include oral, injectable, and topical treatments, and even experimental treatments like fecal transplantation (wait, what?!). There has never been a time […]
Share your story: Crystal’s story
Crystal’s Eczema Story “Remember, you are not alone.” Recently, ESC invited Crystal L. to share an update on her eczema journey and how it has evolved since she shared her story with ESC in 2016. As an ESC peer support volunteer, Crystal has helped countless people navigate life with eczema and atopic dermatitis, and we […]
Phototherapy treatment for eczema and skin cancer – what are the risks?
Exploring the long-term safety of phototherapy for atopic dermatitis When atopic dermatitis (AD), the most common form of eczema does not respond to topical therapies, or is very widespread and severe, dermatologist may recommend phototherapy or light therapy, a treatment which uses controlled and metered doses of light to help to manage inflammation in the […]
Share your story: Tanya’s story
Tanya’s eczema story Finding acceptance as a caregiver and an eczema sufferer Having moderate to severe eczema can make you feel like an expert in the condition. So when an eczema sufferer becomes a parent to someone with eczema, how does that knowledge translate to taking on the new role of caregiver? We invited ESC […]
Tips for talking to teachers about eczema
Revised Eczema School and Daycare Guide helps facilitate the transition back to school and daycare When our children are babies, we as parents are used to caring for them and their eczema 24/7. But what happens when they start daycare or school? It can be an emotional experience to share the role of caregiver with […]
UPDATE: New treatments for AD are here and more are coming!
Processes and new advancements in atopic dermatitis treatments There have been many advancements in research and treatments for atopic dermatitis (AD) in recent years, and there are currently more than 80 new treatments in development for AD. These advancements don’t happen overnight, and it can take years for new medications to be made available in Canada. […]