Eczema Care for Adults in the Bay Area

Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a chronic condition that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin with red or discolored patches and rashes. It is not contagious, and it tends to flare during certain periods and settle during others. The skin often itches intensely, and scratching can lead to cracking, weeping, and crusting. Eczema commonly appears on the hands, the insides of the elbows, behind the knees, and on the face. Avita MD primary care providers diagnose and manage eczema for adults in Los Altos, Mountain View, and Los Gatos.

What are the symptoms of eczema?

Eczema symptoms range from mild dryness to widespread, intensely itchy rashes that come and go. Common signs include:

• Dry, scaly, or thickened skin
• Intense itching, often worse at night
• Red or discolored patches and rashes
• Rash on the hands, inside the elbows, behind the knees, or on the face
• Cracking, weeping of clear fluid, or crusting where the skin is scratched
• Skin that feels rough or leathery in areas scratched over time

When itching disrupts sleep or the rash spreads or will not clear with basic skin care, a medical evaluation helps.

How does Avita MD diagnose and treat eczema?

At Avita MD, eczema is usually diagnosed from a skin exam and your history, including past flares, family history of eczema, hay fever, or asthma, and the products and conditions that seem to set it off. When an allergic contact trigger is suspected, patch testing can be arranged to identify specific allergens. We also review the role of related conditions such as seasonal allergies and asthma, which often occur alongside eczema.

Treatment centers on daily care that repairs and protects the skin barrier, paired with calming flares quickly. The table below contrasts common triggers with everyday management steps:

Common triggers	Everyday management
Harsh soaps and detergents	Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers
Dry or cold air	Moisturize daily, especially after bathing
Rough fabrics such as wool	Choose soft, breathable clothing
Heat, sweat, and stress	Keep cool and manage stress
Allergens and fragrances	Identify and avoid personal triggers

During flares, topical medications reduce inflammation and itching, and we add other treatments for stubborn cases. Same-day and next-day appointments mean a flare can be seen quickly, and we track your skin over time through longitudinal records so the plan stays effective. When specialty dermatology care is warranted, we coordinate the referral, including any prior authorization.

When should you see a doctor about eczema?

Make an appointment when itching disrupts your sleep or daily life, the rash is widespread or keeps coming back, or over-the-counter moisturizers are not enough. Seek prompt care for signs of skin infection, such as oozing yellow crust, spreading redness, warmth, swelling, or fever, since infected eczema needs treatment right away. Early, consistent care helps calm flares, protect your skin barrier, and keep eczema from interfering with everyday life.