Dear Claire, I cannot say that I truly feel how you do, but I was diagnosed with excema as a child - my skin had distorted coloration, and adding to the fact that I was tan with numerous light spots on my skin as well as arm rashes, I caused lots of unwanted attention. But have you tried elidel? To me, it really helped reduce my itching. Also, sometimes excema is outgrown because many children or teenagers use it. But hope that everything works out for you!
I outgrew mines when I turned 18. Now, I have a fresh new start on life - take care and good luck in the future!