Dry, Itchy Patches on Face

[Jodie5728]

I had a patch on my chin about the size of a dime which itched and peeled on occasion.  It seems where my skin is irritated another developes.  I now have 7 in the chin area and two near my eye brows.  I literally could itch my face off but I am religious about putting Vit. E, dry skin lotion and the MD gave me fungal meds which have not helped.  They have left dark spots on my chin which I can't conceal.  Any ideas.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Without examination,I cannot confirm a diagnosis but it can be dry skin(xerosis), eczema, sweat dermatitis, allergic reactions  or seborrheic dermatitis.

Eczema is a form of chronic dermatitis (rash).Allergic reaction is one of the important causes of eczema. Allergic reaction can occur to strong soaps, Solvents, chemicals, certain foods, food additives, plants, metals, cosmetics, even urine and faeces of some animals (dust mites).

Wash the areas several times with fresh water. Do not use any cosmetic products at the sites. You can apply some calamine lotion at the rash as it will help in soothing the skin. You can take some OTC oral antihistamine medications like Benadryl or Claritin and see if it helps.

For mild-moderate symptoms a weak steroid may be used (e.g. hydrocortisone as dermacort), whilst more severe cases require a higher-potency steroid (e.g. clobetasol propionate, fluocinonide). Also use good quality moisturizers to prevent moisture loss from the skin.

If still the symptoms do not improve then pls get a clinical examination done by a dermatologist.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional doubts.Kind regards.