Your skin is dry, incredibly itchy... and it's driving you insane. This is not your normal case of under-moisturizing. So what's going on? There is a good chance you could have eczema. This non-contagious disease is believed to be triggered by genetics COMBINED with long-term exposure to allergens like food, plants, or substances in the air. DON'T confuse eczema with psoriasis, which involves the building up of skin cells, resulting in a rash. It's most common in babies and children, but adults are still susceptible, ESPECIALLY if you live in a city or dry climate. Red, swollen, INTENSELY itchy or burning skin is the first sign of a flare up. Depending on how bad your case is, this can turn into dry flaking or blisters and seeping lesions. These patches can show up anywhere on the body, but usually appear on the inside of your elbows, backs of the knees, and on your face and hands. The sooner you treat it, the sooner you can ditch the discomfort-no matter WHAT body part is affected. The most common method of attack is a prescribed topical medication. Corticosteroid creams and ointments can be used to control the itch. The only downside-- long term use can cause the skin to thin and lighten. Immunomodulators make up a newer type of topical cream that reduces both inflammation and your immune system's reaction, and have few side effects. When topical medications aren't enough, your doctor may give you a stronger oral corticosteroid. Antibiotics may also be used if the skin has become infected. In severe cases, you may be given an immune suppressing medication, but only for a short period of time because of harmful side effects like increased risk of cancer and infections. While there is no cure for eczema, there ARE changes you can make to prevent a reaction -- such as changing your bathing routine. Try showering every OTHER day, instead of every day, using warm, not hot water. Wash with a mild, sensitive skin soap to avoid drying. And when you towel off, PAT yourself dry to keep from removing essential oils. Finally, finish off by applying a thick lotion or oil to lock in moisture. To learn more about other common skin conditions, check out the rest of the videos in this series.