what is eczema
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common, non-contagious skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed patches on the skin. While it often appears in young children, it can affect people of all ages and tends to be a chronic condition with occasional flare-ups triggered by irritants or allergens. In addition to skin discomfort, individuals with eczema may have an increased risk of developing food allergies, hay fever, and asthma. Although there is no cure, proper skin care, regular moisturizing, and medicated treatments can help manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups. Understanding eczema and how to control it is essential for improving quality of life.
Types of Eczema: Common Forms and Their Triggers
Eczema is a broad term for various skin conditions that cause inflammation, dryness, and itching. Different types of eczema have distinct causes and triggers that can weaken the skin’s natural barrier. Below are the most common types:
- Atopic Dermatitis: The Most Common Form
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic condition often linked to allergies, asthma, and a family history of skin disorders. It causes dry, red, and itchy patches that can flare up due to environmental triggers.
- Contact Dermatitis: Reaction to Irritants & Allergens
This type occurs when the skin reacts to specific substances like soaps, detergents, metals, or chemicals. It leads to redness, itching, and sometimes blistering.
- Dyshidrotic Eczema: Small, Itchy Blisters on Hands & Feet
Dyshidrotic appears as tiny fluid-filled blisters, usually on the palms, fingers, or soles of the feet. It can be triggered by stress, moisture, or allergic reactions.
- Neurodermatitis: Intense Itching & Thickened Skin
This form develops due to repetitive scratching or rubbing, leading to thick, leathery patches on the skin, often on the neck, wrists, or legs.
- Nummular Eczema: Coin-Shaped Dry Patches
Nummular causes round, itchy, and scaly patches that can resemble ringworm. It’s often triggered by dry skin, insect bites, or allergens.
- Seborrheic Dermatitis: Flaky Scalp & Oily Skin
Commonly known as dandruff when it affects the scalp, this type causes red, scaly patches in oily areas like the scalp, face, and chest. It may be linked to yeast overgrowth on the skin.
Symptoms and Causes of Eczema
Eczema is known for causing intense itching, which can range from mild to severe. In some cases, excessive scratching leads to bleeding, creating what’s known as the “itch-scratch cycle.” The symptoms can vary from person to person, but common signs include:
✅ Itchy skin – The most persistent symptom, often worsening at night.
✅ Dry, rough skin – Affected areas may feel scaly or leathery.
✅ Rashes – Red, inflamed patches that may appear anywhere on the body.
✅ Discoloration – Skin may look darker or lighter, depending on skin tone.
✅ Swelling & inflammation – Skin may become puffy or tender.
✅ Oozing or crusting – In severe cases, fluid-filled blisters may form and leak.
Eczema symptoms are highly individual—what one person experiences may look different from another. Additionally, symptoms can appear on different parts of the body depending on the type of eczema and its triggers.
How Is Eczema Diagnosed?
Diagnosing eczema typically involves a physical examination and a discussion of your symptoms. Your doctor will:
🔹 Review Your Symptoms – They will ask about itching, flare-ups, and any known triggers.
🔹 Examine Your Skin – The appearance of dryness, redness, inflammation, or rashes helps confirm eczema.
🔹 Assess Your Medical History – Family history of eczema, allergies, asthma, or hay fever may indicate a higher risk.
🔹 Recommend Allergy Tests – In some cases, allergy testing can help identify potential triggers.
🔹 Refer to a Dermatologist – If needed, you may be sent to a skin specialist for further evaluation and treatment.
How to Get Rid of Eczema: Treatment & Management
There is no permanent cure for eczema, but you can manage and reduce flare-ups with the right treatment. Your eczema treatment plan depends on your triggers and symptoms. Here are some effective ways to control eczema:
- Keep Your Skin Hydrated
💧 Use gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers throughout the day.
💧 Apply moisturizer on damp skin after a bath or shower to lock in moisture.
- Use Medications as Needed
💊 Topical treatments – Apply prescribed creams like topical steroids to reduce inflammation.
💊 Oral medications – Take antihistamines, corticosteroids, or anti-inflammatory drugs to control itching and swelling.
💊 Immunosuppressants – Help regulate the immune system in severe cases.
- Consider Light Therapy (Phototherapy)
🔆 UV light therapy can improve skin appearance and reduce eczema flare-ups.
- Identify and Avoid Triggers
⚠️ Common triggers include stress, allergens, harsh soaps, and certain foods. Avoiding them can prevent symptoms from worsening.
Top Moisturizers for Eczema-Prone Skin
Finding the right moisturizer is key to keeping eczema under control and preventing flare-ups. Here’s what to look for when choosing a product:
✅ Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and dye-free – Minimizes irritation and allergic reactions.
✅ Formulated for sensitive skin – Gentle ingredients help soothe and hydrate.
✅ Contains petroleum jelly or mineral oil – Creates a protective barrier to lock in moisture.
✅ Free from preservatives and stabilizers – Reduces the risk of skin sensitivity.
✅ Rich in lipids and ceramides – Restores the skin’s natural barrier and improves hydration.
Since eczema varies from person to person, it may take some trial and error to find the best moisturizer for your skin. If you need guidance, consult a dermatologist for personalized recommendations.
Common Medications for Eczema
Managing eczema requires a combination of skincare and medications based on the severity of your condition. Here are some commonly used treatments:
Basic Eczema Care
🛁 Use a gentle cleanser – Avoid harsh soaps that strip natural oils.
💧 Moisturize frequently – Locks in hydration and helps repair the skin barrier.
Medical Treatment Options
💊 Over-the-Counter (OTC) Treatments
✔ Hydrocortisone cream – Reduces mild itching and inflammation.
💊 Topical Prescription Medications
✔ Stronger steroid creams to reduce inflammation.
✔ Calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., tacrolimus, pimecrolimus) – Helps control flare-ups.
💉 Biologic Prescription Medications
✔ Injectable treatments like Dupilumab (Dupixent) target the immune system to reduce severe eczema symptoms.
💊 Oral Prescription Medications
✔ Immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine, methotrexate) – Controls severe eczema.
✔ JAK inhibitors (e.g., upadacitinib, abrocitinib) – Newer oral treatments for moderate-to-severe eczema.
🔆 Phototherapy (Light Therapy)
✔ Controlled UV light exposure helps reduce inflammation and itching.
🌿 Alternative & Complementary Therapies
✔ Traditional Chinese medicine (acupuncture, herbal remedies) may provide additional relief.
Since eczema treatment is personalized, discussing options with your dermatologist or healthcare provider is essential to find the best plan for managing your symptoms. Many people require a combination of treatments for optimal control.