General & Pediatric Dermatology
Eczema & Atopic Dermatitis Treatment
Eczema, or dermatitis, refers to a group of conditions that cause inflamed, irritated, itchy skin — affecting both children and adults. Dr. Sergay has helped countless patients manage and gain long-term control of this chronic condition through personalized, evidence-based care.
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Dr. Sergay's Approach
Understanding Eczema & Dermatitis
Eczema, or dermatitis, refers to a group of conditions that cause inflamed, irritated, itchy skin. There are many types of eczema including atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, hand eczema, and dyshidrotic eczema. Dr. Sergay has helped countless patients manage and gain control of this chronic condition.
One of the most important aspects of Dr. Sergay's management philosophy is educating patients and families about the condition and ways to improve the skin barrier. Atopic dermatitis is a complex condition of genetics and immunology — there is not one single cause. Dr. Sergay takes the time needed with each patient and family to understand their history and skin issues, then formulates a treatment plan with the goal of long-term control.
Prompt evaluation with a dermatologist is important: the longer inflammation remains in the skin, the longer it takes to clear. Dr. Sergay will help identify your triggers, strengthen your skin barrier, and choose the right medications — so you spend less time flaring and more time comfortable in your skin.
Children & Adults
All ages, every skin type
Barrier-First Approach
Protect & restore skin function
Know Your Condition
Common Types of Eczema
Atopic Dermatitis
The most common form of eczema, atopic dermatitis (AD) usually develops by 5 years of age and involves itchy red rashes that come and go. It is strongly linked to genetics, immune dysfunction, and skin barrier defects.
- Itchy, red, dry patches
- Often begins in infancy or childhood
- Linked to asthma & allergies
- Chronic with periodic flares
Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a red, itchy rash caused by direct skin contact with an irritant or allergen. A dermatologist is often needed to identify the specific culprit ingredient or substance.
- Red, itchy rash at contact site
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Blisters in allergic reactions
- Patch testing to find triggers
Hand Eczema
Hand eczema affects the hands and fingers, often triggered by frequent handwashing, chemical exposure, or occupational irritants. It can be painful and debilitating if left untreated.
- Dry, cracked, painful skin
- Blisters on palms or fingers
- Common in healthcare workers
- Worsened by wet work or gloves
Dyshidrotic Eczema
Dyshidrotic eczema causes small, intensely itchy blisters on the edges of the fingers, toes, palms, and soles. Flares are often triggered by stress, sweating, or exposure to metals like nickel.
- Small fluid-filled blisters
- Intense itch or burning
- Triggers: stress, sweat, metals
- Can occur on hands and feet
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis presents as scaly patches, red skin, and dandruff primarily on the scalp, face, and oily areas. It is related to yeast overgrowth and responds well to targeted treatments.
- Flaky, scaly patches
- Red skin on scalp, nose & ears
- Can affect eyebrows & chest
- Responds to antifungal therapy
Nummular Eczema
Nummular eczema causes distinctive coin-shaped spots of irritated, itchy skin. It tends to affect the legs, arms, and torso, and is often associated with dry skin and environmental triggers.
- Round, coin-shaped lesions
- Crusty or oozing patches
- Common on lower legs
- Often misdiagnosed as ringworm
Avoid & Identify
Common Eczema Triggers
Identifying and avoiding your personal triggers is one of the most effective ways to reduce eczema flares. Dr. Sergay takes a thorough history to help pinpoint what's driving your symptoms.
Weather & Temperature
- Hot or cold weather
- High humidity
- Low humidity / dry air
- Sweating from heat
Stress & Emotions
- Emotional stress
- Anxiety
- Sleep deprivation
- Major life changes
Irritants & Chemicals
- Fragrances in soaps or lotions
- Harsh detergents
- Cleaning products
- Wool or synthetic fabrics
Allergens
- Dust mites
- Pet dander
- Pollen
- Mold spores
Food (in some patients)
- Dairy products
- Eggs
- Tree nuts
- Wheat / gluten
Skincare Products
- Fragrance-containing moisturizers
- Alcohol-based toners
- Certain sunscreens
- Antibacterial soaps
Important: Many parents try to eliminate foods or allergens before seeing a dermatologist. However, eczema is a complex condition of genetics and immunology — removing foods without guidance can be harmful. Dr. Sergay will help you find the right answers without the guessing game.
Evidence-Based Care
How Dr. Sergay Treats Eczema
Treatment is never one-size-fits-all. Dr. Sergay tailors your plan based on your eczema type, severity, age, and lifestyle goals.
Topical Corticosteroids
Prescription-strength topical steroids reduce inflammation during flares. Dr. Sergay guides patients on correct usage — only when indicated, for the recommended time frame, and in the right location.
Non-Steroidal Topicals
Newer non-steroidal options like topical calcineurin inhibitors (tacrolimus, pimecrolimus) and PDE4 inhibitors (crisaborole) offer effective inflammation control without steroid-related side effects.
Biologic Therapy
For moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis, biologic medications like dupilumab target the underlying immune pathways driving inflammation, providing long-term control with an excellent safety profile.
Oral Medications
Oral antihistamines help manage itch, especially at night. Oral antibiotics may be prescribed when secondary skin infections develop. Short courses of oral steroids can address acute severe flares.
Barrier Repair & Moisturization
Restoring the skin barrier is foundational to eczema management. Dr. Sergay recommends medical-grade moisturizing creams (not lotions), applied immediately after bathing while skin is still damp.
Trigger Management
Identifying and reducing personal triggers — fragrance, allergens, temperature extremes, stress — is as important as medication. Dr. Sergay works with each patient to build a practical trigger avoidance plan.
31M+
Americans with eczema
60%
Cases begin before age 1
85%
Improvement with proper care
All Ages
Children & adults treated
Daily Habits
Gain Control of Your Eczema
Managing eczema long-term requires a combination of medical treatment and daily skin care habits. These are the core strategies Dr. Sergay shares with every patient.
Improve Your Skin Barrier
- Use gentle cleansers without fragrance
- Avoid long, hot showers or baths
- Apply a moisturizing cream (not lotion) after each time the skin is wet to protect the barrier
- Pat skin dry gently — never rub
Avoid Irritants & Triggers
- Weather (hot or cold) — dress in layers, use a humidifier
- Stress — practice relaxation techniques
- Fragrance in soaps, detergents, and skincare
- Skin care products with alcohol, parabens, or sulfates
Use Medications Correctly
- Topical steroids are not always needed — use only as prescribed
- Only apply steroids for the recommended time frame and to the right location
- Never stop a biologic without consulting Dr. Sergay
- Keep follow-up appointments to adjust your plan as skin changes
Lifestyle & Environment
- Wash new clothing before wearing
- Choose 100% cotton clothing when possible
- Use fragrance-free laundry detergent
- Keep fingernails short to minimize scratching damage
Your Dermatologist
About Amanda Sergay, MD
Board Certified
American Board of Dermatology
Specialties
Medical · Surgical · Cosmetic
Location
South Tampa, FL
Board-Certified Dermatologist · Medical · Surgical · Cosmetic
Amanda Sergay, MD is a board-certified dermatologist committed to excellence in comprehensive dermatological care. Originally from the Tampa area, Dr. Sergay received her undergraduate degree from Emory University and earned her medical degree from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.
She completed her residency in dermatology at Mount Sinai St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center in New York City, where she served as Chief Resident during her final year. Her practice encompasses medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology, treating both adults and children.
Dr. Sergay has been named to Tampa Magazine's Top Docs Edition in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025, and was twice named to New York Magazine's New York Rising Star list.
Awards & Recognition
Tampa Magazine Top Docs
2019202020212022202320242025Super Doctors
Emory University
Undergraduate
Univ. of Miami Miller
Medical Degree
Mount Sinai NYC
Residency · Chief Resident
Patient Reviews
What Our Patients Say
Real Google reviews from patients who trust Dr. Sergay with their skin health.
“Dr. Sergay was just fabulous. Thorough for our skincare check and so informative. Highly recommend for anyone looking to get an established, yearly dermatologist for skin cancer checks.”
Iris Moore
9 reviews
“Now this is a medical practice done right! I love how they don't play the insurance game and are a privately owned practice. This allows them to provide top notch care and a patient experience that is hard to find anywhere else. Dr. Sergay is extremely thorough during her exams and so kind. Trust her with your care!”
Victoria Hansen
Local Guide · 123 reviews · 144 photos
“Dr. Sergay is awesome! I am a new patient and very much appreciated her approach, thoughtfulness and attention to detail. Highly recommend!”
Chad Panton
Local Guide · 36 reviews · 2 photos
“Warm welcome to a nice office. Seen quickly by very proficient and kind Dr Sergay and staff. Great follow up with care plan and prescriptions. Highly recommended.”
Frank King
5 reviews
“Dr Sergay is wonderful. She's deeply knowledgeable about her field, and also has a wonderful, attentive manner. She and her staff are so caring and responsive. I highly recommend.”
Dana Whiting
3 reviews
“First time appointment — Dr. Sergay was amazing. Very easy to talk to and she told me the choices I had and got the procedure done. Highly recommend.”
Darren Finebloom
Local Guide · 21 reviews
Common Questions
Eczema FAQ
Take the First Step
Ready to Gain Control of Your Eczema?
Whether you're an adult struggling with chronic flares or a parent seeking answers for your child, Dr. Sergay will take the time to understand your unique situation and create a personalized, effective treatment plan.