Help – I have eczema on my face and it won’t clear up.

I am 31 years old and have had eczema since I was a kid. I had never had it on my face until a year ago. However the dermatologist gave me a cream and it made it worse. I went back to him and he gave me a shot. That was 3 weeks ago and its worse than ever. I am at a loss for words. I have read some of peoples concerns on some eczema sites and they worry its there shampoo. I literally can only use the shampoo I use (Loreal Kids) due to being allergic to a certain product in them. I had allergy testing done when I had a reaction to a shampoo I used for years but they added an ingredient that I am allergic too. I am allergic to Methylchloroisothiazolinone and Sulfa. I am exhausted and am trying to interview for jobs since I just graduated college so I would like to look nice and not like I do. Please help me I don't know what to do. Sarah

Hi Sarah,

Please read the post just before this one too. You already have figured out some of it. So I can hear how frustrating this is for you so here are some thoughts.

First, you’ve given your dermatologist several chances and things aren’t going well and also it’s very possible that the “shot” was a type of cortisone. Often those shots will temporarily clear eczema up but it sometimes recurs when the shot wears off.   It might be time to consider a second opinion. If you communicate well with your current dermatologist, then call and ask to be worked in asap since you’re worse.

Second, sometime when the skin barrier layer is broken down by the eczema, then other problems, especially infections, are opportunists. Please make sure that you are cultured (done with just a swab) for bacteria like Staph and ask your dermatologist if you might have a yeast overgrowth now from the various creams (some aggravate this).  

While you are waiting you may want to stick with very bland products like Cerave or Cetaphil Cleansers and moisturizing cream or even vaseline. Be sure to read the labels of all products (not just shampoos)  to make sure they don’t contain the allergens you mention above.  Remember, we are all individuals so if something stings, burns, makes you redder or worse, stop the product and call your doctor.  

Dr. I 

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

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