Patrick Thomas Ottuso, M D F A A D

The depth of the scars will dictate if the scars remain noticeable or fade to a minimal discoloration. For instance, so-called “ice pick” scars are deeper and require intervention to
remove or decrease the depth of the injury. Chemical peels and superficial laser resurfacing is often used for superficial scarring. Deeper scars may require deeper resurfacing, surgical intervention, or deeper chemical peels.

Patrick Ottuso

Wash with cerave or aquanil cleanser. Apply aquaphor ointment 2-3 x per day for 2-3 days then vanicream moisturizing cream as needed. Avoid sun exposure for 7-10 days.

If over 6 months old...neutrogena baby zinc oxide block.

First, the cause of the eczema needs to be determined...assuming it is truly eczema. In general, eczema on the legs may be due to contact dermatitis, hereditary factors, or poor circulation, namely stasis dermatitis. Leg eczema can be treated with topical steroids, emollients or non steroid ointments and creams. Skin barrier creams and ointment may also be beneficial. Also, other entities may mimic eczema such as psoriasis and fungus to name a couple.

Patrick Ottuso

Yes, there are a number of treatment options including chemical peels, punch grafting, and laser resurfacing. The appropriate technique ultimately depends upon the number of scars that need to be treated, the depth of the scars, and cost. I would recommend seeing a cosmetic dermatologist or plastic surgeon that specializes in such treatments and request before and after photos of the patients treated. Also, discuss downtime with each procedure and risks involved.

Patrick Ottuso

Such signs/symptoms may be due to contact dermatitis from something like sunscreen or it may be due to something called solar urticaria or less likely sun sensitive dermatosis such as lupus. It would be prudent to see a dermatologist for evaluation and possible testing for the above.

It depends on the type of laser used and the experience of the user. Also, the body may respond with what is called neovascularization and create new veins. The odds though are good that the area will not recur. There is also a small chance of changes in pigmentation in the area treated.

Short term potent topical steroid ointment by prescription, but in the meantime, emollients such as aquaphor, aveeno eczema repair cream or cerave cream 2-3 times per day. Wash with Dove unscented soap or aquanil cleanser. Over the counter hydrocortisone cream 2 x per day for up to 2 weeks, until prescription is obtained.