Skin problems on forehead

[E_Double]

I have had skin problems on my forehead for the past 2 or 3 years.  It's a combination of red bumps and red patches, some of it looks like it might be acne.  It's on my forehead, the space in between my eyebrows and in my hairline a little bit.  It doesn't feel itchy or irritated though.  I have noticed that sun exposure, stress and excessive sweating cause my skin problem to get worse.  I've tried several different treatments but it has never gone away.  I have been using betaderm cream and that helps reduce inflammation but it never fully goes away.  I don't think it's good to use it for a long period of time though.  I think the skin problems could be from taking azathioprine.  I have been taking it for crohn's disease for the past 9 or 10 years.  Or maybe I'm allergic to a certain food product.  If someone could give me advice that would be greatly appreciated.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
I cannot confirm anything without examination but it can be seborrheic dermatitis or eczema. 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 eczema 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).

Eczema can be exacerbated by dryness of the skin. 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.