Atopic Dermatitis & Eczema Treatment in Petaluma & Hercules

What is Eczema?

Eczema, also known as Atopic Dermatitis, is a skin condition that leads to inflamed, itchy skin and is primarily caused by immune dysregulation and an impaired skin barrier. Eczema is not contagious, can be chronic and uncomfortable, often leading to sleep disruption, secondary skin infections, and emotional distress. At Dermatology Associates of the Bay Area, our board-certified dermatologists provide comprehensive eczema care for patients in Petaluma, Hercules, and the surrounding Bay Area. We specialize in personalized treatment plans that alleviate symptoms, prevent flare-ups, and restore skin health, enabling patients to achieve long-term control and an enhanced quality of life.

What Causes Atopic Dermatitis

The causes and triggers are multifactorial.

Genetics: A family history of eczema, asthma, allergic rhinitis, or food allergies increases the risk.
Immune System Overreaction: The skin barrier protein filaggrin is often impaired, leading to allergen penetration, water loss, and inflammation. There are a number of inflammatory modulators, like interleukins, which are frequently the target molecules of the newer medications you may see advertised in the media.
Environmental Factors: Exposure to dry climates, harsh soaps, or allergens like fragrances.

Patients often experience cycles of flares and remission, where symptoms worsen and then improve. Identifying personal triggers is essential, and our dermatologists help patients develop management strategies tailored to their unique lifestyles.

Symptoms of eczema

The symptoms of atopic dermatitis can vary depending on the age and severity of the condition. Common signs include:

Persistent itching (often worse at night)
Red, inflamed patches on the skin
Dry, scaly, or cracked skin
Thickened, leathery skin (from chronic scratching)
Small, raised bumps that may leak fluid when scratched
Skin infections caused by open lesions

In infants and children, eczema commonly appears on the face, scalp, elbows, and knees. In adults, it often affects the hands, eyelids, and skin folds. Because symptoms can overlap with those of other conditions, such as psoriasis or allergic rashes, a proper diagnosis by a board-certified dermatologist is essential.

Advanced Eczema Treatment We Offer In Our Petaluma and Hercules Clinics

While there is currently no cure for eczema, effective treatments can control symptoms, reduce flare-ups, and improve skin barrier function.

At Dermatology Associates of the Bay Area, we offer a full range of therapies:

Medical Treatments

Topical Corticosteroids: They are best prescribed at the correct strength and in the appropriate vehicle, such as a cream, gel, ointment, lotion, or solution. They reduce inflammation and itching during flares.
Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors (Tacrolimus, Pimecrolimus): Are non-steroid options that help reduce the need to use steroid creams.
Newer steroid-free creams, such as Opzelura, Zoryve, and Vtama, are highly effective therapeutics that work to reduce itch and inflammation.
Oral Antihistamines and moisturizers: Help reduce itch and increase skin hydration to help restore the skin barrier.
Antibiotics: For secondary skin infection (impetiginization).

Advanced Therapies

Biologic Injections (Dupilumab/Dupixent®, Nemluvio, Ebglyss, and Adbry): Are newer, groundbreaking treatments for moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. They target the unique interleukin inflammatory pathways, thereby reducing itch, inflammation and eczema. They have been gamechangers in managing more severe chronic eczema.
Narrow band UVB Phototherapy (Light Therapy): Safe, controlled UV light treatments to reduce inflammation and itching. Our offices have full body light boxes as well as hand-foot units.

Our dermatologists create personalized treatment plans, ensuring each patient receives care tailored to their skin type, age, and condition severity.

Dermatology Associates of the bay area doctors, pa, aesthetician, and staff. Group image outside.

Board-Certified Dermatologists Serving Petaluma & Hercules

Our team of board-certified dermatologists is dedicated to providing expert skin care for patients of all ages. At Dermatology Associates of the Bay Area, we combine advanced dermatology techniques with personalized care to help you achieve healthy, beautiful skin.

Choose a trusted dermatology practice committed to exceptional care and long-term skin health.

What sets us apart:

Board-Certified Dermatologists – Our dermatologists have completed rigorous training and certification to deliver the highest level of dermatologic care. Our medical colleagues recognize our expertise, and as such, we have been recipients of Castle Connolly Top Doctors – including most recently in January 2025
Comprehensive Skin Care – From medical dermatology and acne treatment to advanced acne scar solutions and cosmetic procedures, we offer a full range of services under one roof.
Patient-Focused Approach – Every treatment plan is customized to fit your unique skin type, concerns, and goals.
Advanced Technology – We use clinically proven treatments and devices for effective, safe results.

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Atopic Dermatitis & Eczema Treatment

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there different types of eczema or dermatitis?

Absolutely. The term is often confused with other distinct conditions, such as seborrheic dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, nummular dermatitis, neurodermatitis, and perioral dermatitis.

Can eczema be cured?

Currently, there is no cure. However, with the correct treatments, symptoms can be controlled and flare-ups minimized.

Is Dupixent safe for long-term use?

Yes. Clinical studies have demonstrated that Dupixent is both safe and effective for the long-term management of moderate to severe eczema under medical supervision.

What skincare products should I avoid with eczema?

Avoid fragranced soaps, alcohol-based lotions, and harsh detergents. Our dermatologists can recommend gentle, non-irritating skincare products.

Can diet affect eczema?

Some patients notice flares linked to food allergens (dairy, eggs, nuts). We help patients identify potential dietary triggers.