Beverly Hills Dermatology
Eczema Treatment in Beverly Hills
Atopic dermatitis managed properly — barrier repair, appropriately potent topical therapy, and escalation to non-steroidal or systemic treatment when it is warranted.
- Verified Reviews
- 792
- Overall Rating
- 4.77★
- Bedside Manner
- 4.84★
- Years in Practice
- 20+
Overview
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory skin disease driven by two linked problems: a defective epidermal barrier that loses water and admits irritants and allergens, and a dysregulated type 2 immune response that produces intense itch and inflammation. It presents as dry, itchy, erythematous patches — on the flexural surfaces, hands, neck, and face in adults — and the itch-scratch cycle perpetuates it. Many patients also have asthma, allergic rhinitis, or food allergy as part of the atopic diathesis.
Dr. Zaks treats both components. Barrier repair with thick emollients and gentle non-soap cleansing is foundational and never optional. Inflammation is controlled with topical corticosteroids of a potency matched to the body site, with topical calcineurin inhibitors such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus for the face, eyelids, and skin folds and for long-term maintenance without steroid atrophy, and with newer non-steroidal topicals including crisaborole and topical JAK inhibitors. For moderate to severe disease that fails topical therapy, systemic options such as dupilumab and oral JAK inhibitors have changed outcomes substantially. Eczema is a medical diagnosis and is covered by most major PPO plans and Medicare.
Treatment Options
Barrier Repair and Gentle Cleansing
Thick emollients applied consistently, short lukewarm showers, and non-soap cleansers. The foundation of every plan — and the step most often skipped.
Topical Corticosteroids
Potency matched to body site and severity, used in defined courses for flares. Correct potency and quantity matter more than avoiding steroids entirely.
Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors
Tacrolimus and pimecrolimus for the face, eyelids, and folds, and for long-term maintenance without the risk of skin thinning.
Non-Steroidal Topicals
Crisaborole and topical JAK inhibitors provide steroid-free anti-inflammatory options for maintenance and sensitive areas.
Systemic and Biologic Therapy
Dupilumab and oral JAK inhibitors for moderate to severe disease that has failed adequate topical therapy, with appropriate monitoring.
Itch Control and Trigger Management
Breaking the itch-scratch cycle, identifying irritants and allergens, and treating secondary bacterial infection when it develops.
The Treatment Experience
Diagnosis and severity assessment
Dr. Zaks confirms atopic dermatitis, distinguishes it from contact dermatitis and psoriasis, assesses extent and severity, and reviews your atopic and treatment history.
Barrier and flare plan
Dr. Zaks explains the regimen orally, including which emollient to use, how often, which anti-inflammatory to apply where, how much, and for how long during a flare, so you understand exactly what to do.
Escalation when needed
If well-executed topical therapy is not enough, Dr. Zaks escalates to non-steroidal topicals or systemic and biologic therapy with appropriate monitoring.
Maintenance and follow-up
Once clear, you move to a proactive maintenance regimen that prevents flares rather than chasing them, with follow-up to keep control long-term.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can eczema be cured?
No, but it can be controlled very well. Atopic dermatitis is chronic and relapsing; the goal is clear skin most of the time, with a maintenance plan that prevents flares instead of reacting to them.
Are topical steroids safe to use?
Yes, when the potency is matched to the body site and they are used in defined courses. Problems come from using too potent a steroid on thin skin for too long, or from using too weak a steroid and never gaining control.
What are the options if steroids aren't working?
Topical calcineurin inhibitors, crisaborole, and topical JAK inhibitors are non-steroidal alternatives. For moderate to severe disease, systemic therapy including dupilumab and oral JAK inhibitors is highly effective.
Is my eczema caused by a food allergy?
Food allergy and atopic dermatitis often coexist, but food is rarely the primary driver in adults. Dr. Zaks will discuss whether allergy evaluation is worthwhile in your case rather than starting with elimination diets.
Why do moisturizers matter so much?
The epidermal barrier is defective in atopic dermatitis, so it loses water and admits irritants and allergens. Consistent emollient use repairs that barrier and measurably reduces flares and medication use.
Is eczema treatment covered by insurance?
Yes. Eczema is a medical diagnosis and visits are covered by most major PPO plans and Medicare. Coverage for biologics requires prior authorization, which our office handles.
How do I know if my eczema is infected?
Increasing pain, weeping, yellow crusting, or a sudden worsening despite treatment can indicate secondary bacterial infection, which needs prompt evaluation and treatment.
Patient Reviews
“I have been going to Dr. Zaks for over 4 years. His outstanding skill, great bedside manner, warm personality, and artistry with Botox make me come back again and again!”
“I had Rosacea on my face for over 10 years. Dr. Zaks quickly reduced this embarrassing condition. Nobody else could help me. He's the best Dermatologist in LA hands down!”
“Dr. Zaks did not rush and he gave me 100% attention. He did not try to sell me product or convince me to try aggressive procedures which I appreciated.”
“Doctor took the time to explain the technical aspects of my condition, the treatment options and the expectations.”
About Dr. Boris Zaks, MD
Dr. Boris Zaks personally performs every procedure at Superior Beverly Hills Dermatology — never rotating assistants. He has practiced dermatology in Beverly Hills for more than twenty years.
- Board Certified — American Board of Dermatology (since 2002)
- Medical Degree — UCLA School of Medicine
- Chief Resident — Charles Drew University of Medicine & Science
- B.S. Biology — UCLA, Summa Cum Laude (age 19)
- Medical Board of California Expert Reviewer since 2009
- Super Doctors® 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026 & 2027 (Southern California)
- "Rock Star Dermatologist" — Glamour Magazine
Schedule Your Consultation
435 N. Roxbury Drive, Suite 408, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · Monday–Friday · (310) 552-3376
Paid parking on-site, or free 2-hour parking at 461 N. Bedford Drive Garage, 1 block away
Areas Served
Patients seek Eczema Treatment at Dr. Zaks’s Beverly Hills office from throughout greater Los Angeles: West Hollywood, Bel Air, Brentwood, Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, Westwood, Century City, Culver City, Marina del Rey, Studio City, Sherman Oaks, Encino, Calabasas, Burbank, Glendale, Pasadena, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Torrance, Long Beach, Newport Beach, and Irvine.