Methods to Get Rid of Skin Inflammation

Skin inflammation is known by many names in the medical community. When skin becomes swollen, itchy and red -- all signs of inflammation -- this is known as a rash or dermatitis to a medical professional. In order to get skin inflammation to go away, it is necessary to know what is causing the inflammation in the first place. Once you know the cause of the symptoms, then you can treat the problem with confidence.

Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

• Eczema is a type of skin condition characterized by scaly skin that develops small bumps that weep when they are scratched open. As with all inflammation, the skin will be red and irritated. Methods of treatment include bathing the skin in lukewarm water to keep it moist, avoiding harsh soaps and avoiding sweating. Lubricate any areas that are affected by the eczema. Use over the counter moisturizing creams to lubricate your skin. Ask your doctor to recommend a brand. Try not to scratch. Your doctor might prescribe medications for you such as antihistamines, antibiotics, topical steroid creams and oral immune suppression medications.

Contact Dermatitis

• Contact dermatitis is a reaction the skin develops after coming in contact with an irritant. Poison ivy is the most commonly known contact irritant, but metals such as nickel, chrome and mercury can also cause skin reactions. Soaps, perfumes and other chemicals can also cause itching, redness and swelling. To treat, first identify and remove the irritant. Then wash the skin and anything that came in contact with the irritant. Use cold and wet compresses if you have any broken blisters. Over the counter anti-itch creams can be used to help soothe the itching. Oatmeal baths can be helpful as well.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

• The skin sheds scales in seborrheic dermatitis. It is most commonly known as dandruff in adults and cradle cap in infants. It can cause redness and itchiness of the scalp in addition to greasy, scaly flakes. Washing with medicated shampoos is usually enough to clear up this type of dermatitis. However, for cradle cap infants, use mineral oil and gentle shampoo to clear up the condition.

Other Types of Dermatitis

• Localized scratch dermatitis is chronic itching of the skin that is treated with antihistamines, topical anti-itch creams and corticosteroid creams. Nummular dermatitis is more prevalent in winter. This condition resembles pimples on the skin and is treated with ultraviolet light therapy in addition to corticosteroids. Perioral dermatitis looks like acne around the mouth and is treated with antibiotics. Stasis dermatitis is the red flaky skin that occurs when edema pools in the lower leg where blood and fluid are static. Treatment includes treating the edema, moisturizing the skin and treating any infection that occurs.