Dermatitis Treatment in Washington, DC

What Is Dermatitis?

Dermatitis is a general term used to describe inflammation of the skin. It can cause redness, itching, scaling, dryness, and sometimes blistering or cracking. Dermatitis can affect people of all ages and may be triggered by a variety of factors.

The term "dermatitis" encompasses several different types of skin inflammation, each with its own characteristics and causes.

Common Types of Dermatitis

• Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): A chronic condition that often begins in childhood and is associated with dry, itchy, inflamed skin.
• Contact Dermatitis: Occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or allergen, causing localized inflammation.
• Irritant Dermatitis: Caused by direct damage to the skin from substances such as soaps, detergents, or chemicals.
• Other Clinically Relevant Types: Including seborrheic dermatitis, nummular dermatitis, and stasis dermatitis, among others.

Common Symptoms of Dermatitis

Symptoms of dermatitis can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common symptoms may include:

• Redness or discoloration
• Itching
• Dry, scaly, or flaky skin
• Cracked or fissured skin
• Blisters or oozing in some cases
• Thickened or leathery skin with chronic scratching

Not everyone with dermatitis experiences all of these symptoms.

Common Causes & Triggers of Dermatitis

Dermatitis can develop for many reasons, and identifying triggers can be helpful when managing symptoms. Common causes and triggers may include:

• Genetics and family history
• Environmental factors
• Irritants such as soaps, detergents, and chemicals
• Allergens such as certain metals, fragrances, or plants
• Stress
• Changes in temperature or humidity
• Dry skin

Triggers vary from person to person. Identifying individual triggers can be helpful when managing symptoms.

Dermatitis and Skin of Color

Dermatitis can affect people of all skin tones, but it may appear differently on darker skin. Redness may be less visible, while dryness, scaling, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin after inflammation) may be more noticeable.

Dr. Holmes considers skin tone and individual skin characteristics when evaluating and treating dermatitis.

Learn more about Dermatology for Skin of Color in Washington, DC →

When Should You See a Dermatologist for Dermatitis?

Consider scheduling a dermatology evaluation if you experience:

• Persistent or recurrent skin inflammation
• Severe itching that affects your daily life
• A rash that does not improve with over-the-counter treatments
• Skin that is cracked, painful, or showing signs of infection
• A rash that you suspect may be related to a specific trigger
• Uncertainty about the cause of your skin symptoms

How Is Dermatitis Diagnosed?

Diagnosing dermatitis begins with a dermatologic examination and discussion of your symptoms, triggers, and medical history.

Dr. Holmes may consider the appearance of the rash, its location and distribution, your symptoms, potential triggers, and your personal and family medical history to determine the type of dermatitis and the most appropriate treatment approach.

Dermatitis Treatment Options

Treatment for dermatitis depends on the type, severity, and underlying causes. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include:

• Prescription topical or oral medications
• Skin-care recommendations to restore and protect the skin barrier
• Trigger avoidance strategies
• Other therapies based on individual needs

Dr. Holmes will evaluate your skin and recommend an individualized treatment plan based on your symptoms, skin type, and overall health.

Learn more about Rash Treatment →

How to Manage Dermatitis at Home

Managing dermatitis often involves a combination of medical treatment and daily skin care. Helpful strategies may include:

• Using gentle, fragrance-free skin-care products
• Moisturizing regularly to support the skin barrier
• Avoiding known triggers when possible
• Taking steps to manage stress
• Following your dermatologist's treatment plan consistently

Frequently Asked Questions About Dermatitis

Click on a question to reveal the answer:

Why Choose Dr. Holmes for Dermatitis Treatment

Meet Dr. Yolanda C. Holmes

Dr. Yolanda C. Holmes is a board-certified dermatologist with more than 34 years of experience serving patients in Washington, DC.

She provides individualized evaluation and treatment for dermatitis and other inflammatory skin conditions. With a focus on skin of color, Dr. Holmes considers each patient's skin characteristics, triggers, and symptoms when developing a treatment plan.

Learn more about Dr. Holmes →