Eczema on the face
Eczema on the face has a wide variety of causes. Most commonly, it is a manifestation of contact eczema, atopic eczema or bacterial infection. The correct diagnosis also determines the treatment.
Beware of cosmetics and dusty environments
Flight attendant disease
Contact eczema on the face is, among lay people, known as flight attendant's disease. It occurs mainly around the lips, on the chin and neck and around the eyes. The cause is skin disrupted by frequent washing, makeup removal, using unsuitable creams and cosmetic masks. Also, dry and dusty environment or mild airborne allergens from the working environment can cause irritation.
Prevention and treatment consists mostly in eliminating the irritation. This means either changing the environment or using a protective barrier cream. This can isolate the skin surface from contact with the irritant.
Atopic eczema can also occur in adulthood
Atopic eczema in the face occurs around the eyes, mouth and neck. Dry, peeling itchy patches and atopy in childhood clearly indicate the diagnosis. In adulthood, stress tends to be the trigger.
Treatment of eczema on the face according to symptoms
Dry spots and flaking areas should be treated with moisturizing creams. For example, zinc ointment, beeswax cream or medical petroleum jelly can have a healing effect.
Wet eczema should rather be treated with zinc oil or ointment with ichtoxyl.
There is a wide range of eczema creams. It is better to use those that contain as few ingredients as possible. Ask for samples. Test these in small amounts on the neck or elbow socket for 5 days to see if any irritation occurs.
Treatment of atopic eczema on the face should be in the hands of a qualified dermatologist. Corticosteroid creams are prescribed for visible eczema patches to soothe. This is followed by care containing intensive hydration and protection of the skin barrier.
Fungi and bacteria
Bacterial or fungal diseases can also appear as eczema on the face. Very often, it occurs in association with the daily using and wearing of face masks, respirators and cosmetic masks.
The bacterium malassezia furfur causes acne-like irritations – the seeding of watery and popping pimples, typically on the forehead and chin.
Tinea causes rather flaky skin and the appearance of crusting, often in lines along the nose or eyebrows.
Yeasts of the candida genus itch and burn on the cheeks or behind the ears.
For more extensive symptoms on the face, it is better to see a doctor for a smear to determine the cause and treatment.
