Eczema is a skin condition that causes dryness, redness, itching and scaling. It's the most common skin condition in children and affects at least 25% of the population at some point in their lives. But despite it's prevalence, many people don't know what eczema is or how to treat it. This blog aims to change that by explaining eczema types, symptoms, and the best ways to cure them. By doing so, you'll be on your way to a skin care routine that works for you - no matter what type of eczema you have!

What is eczema?

If you're scratching your skin and it itches, you likely have eczema. Eczema is a skin condition that causes inflammation and redness. It can affect any part of the body but is most common on the face, neck, hands, and feet.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating eczema - it will vary based on the severity of the condition. Some treatments include topical applications like calming creams, moisturisers, emollients or  oral medications and phototherapy (using ultraviolet light). Eczema is a skin condition that can be treated in many ways, but topical eczema treatment requires a combination of several different approaches to get the best results. Internal and external treatments all aim towards management and severity reduction.

#1 Atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is the most common form of eczema. it happens when your skin’s natural barrier against the elements is weakened, and your skin is less able to protect you from irritants or allergens.

Symptoms: Dry, cracked skin, itchiness, rash on swollen skin, small or raised bumps on brown or black skin, raw sensitive skin from scratching

#2 Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis happens when your skin comes into contact with something that causes a rash. it can be soaps and detergents, jewellery made with nickel and industrial chemicals like solvents and cement. It can cause skin irritation or an allergic reaction.

Symptoms: Itchy rash, Leathery patches that are darker than usual (hyperpigmented), dry, cracked, scaly skin, bumps and blisters, sometimes with oozing and crusting, swelling, burning or tenderness

#3 Dyshidrotic eczema

Dyshidrotic eczema causes tiny, intensely itchy blisters on the hands or feet. It is also called pompholyx. 

Symptoms: Itching, burning sensation, prickly feeling, tiny itchy fluid-filled blisters, dark spots

#4 Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common eczema that mainly affects the sebaceous gland-rich regions of the scalp, face and trunk. 

Symptoms: Winter flares, localised scaly patches in the scalp, ill-defined plaques in skin folds on both sides of the face, rash in armpits, under the armpits, under the breasts, and in the groin fields. 

#5 Neurodermatitis

Neurodermatitis causes thick, scaly patches to appear on your skin. This patch forms on your arms, legs, back of your neck, scalp, bottoms of your feet, back of your hands, or genitals. It can result in itchiness, and the patches can bleed if you scratch them.

Symptoms: Itchy, scaly skin patches, open sores that bleed, thick leathery skin, dry and wrinkled genital skin, Raised rough patches that are inflamed  

#6 Nummular eczema

Nummular eczema, also called nummular dermatitis, creates small, rounded lesions all over the body, especially on arms and legs.

Symptoms: Tiny bumps and blister-like sores, coin-shaped raised spots, itchy, extremely dry skin, infection, flat dark spots

#7 Stasis dermatitis

Stasis Dermatitis happens in people with poor blood flow problems in their legs. It occurs when fluids leak out of weakened veins into your skin. The fluid causes swelling, redness, itching and pain.

Symptoms: Deeply pigmented skin, discoloured scaly skin, intensely itchy skin, wounds and sores.

Causes of eczema

Often, it is difficult to determine the cause of eczema, as a variety of factors can cause it. However, allergies and environmental factors are often at the root of eczema symptoms. If you're experiencing eczema symptoms, you must see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

In a few clicks, you can book a dermatologist consultation online. In this way, you can consult the best dermatologists in India to get a personalised treatment plan on Clinikally as per your hair/skin concern.

Many of the best treatments for eczema involve topical medications and lifestyle changes, such as keeping your skin moisturised and well protected.  So, whether you're suffering from mild eczema, dry skin, or eczema at its worst, know that many options are available to get relief.

Risk factors leading to eczema

To help prevent eczema from developing in the first place, it's important to avoid  known triggers . These include a wide range of irritants, allergens, and other substances.

• Soaps, detergents, shampoos, and dishwashing liquids

• Bubble bath liquids

• Mold

• Pollen

• Pet dander

• Dust mites

• A hot or dry climate

• High or low humidity

• Bacterial, viral or fungal infections

• Dust or sand

• Cigarette smoke

• Perfumes and cosmetics

• Wool or synthetic fabrics

• Chemicals and cleaning solutions

• Allergenic foods such as milk, eggs, peanuts, soy, wheat, and fish

What age groups can get eczema?

Eczema is a skin condition that affects people of all ages, but it is more common in children. The symptoms of eczema can vary from person to person, but it usually includes dry skin and redness. Eczema can be caused by many factors - environmental, lifestyle and genetic - so there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. Keep your skin clean and dry at all times to reduce flareups; this will also help improve it's overall health.

Treatment for eczema

Eczema is a skin condition that can be itchy, dry, and red. It can be tough to treat, although with the help of a doctor and topical treatments, it may be treated. Treatment typically involves the use of topical treatments such as creams, ointments, or balms. Early detection is key to success so be sure to consult your doctor if you experience any signs or symptoms of eczema. Here are some tips to reduce eczema flare-ups:

• Apply a cool compress to your skin like oatmeal or baking soda to relieve itch.

• Moisturise your skin daily to form a protective barrier against the elements. Apply it right after your get out of the shower to seal in the moisture.

• Gently pat with your skin with a soft towel after your bath. Never rub.

• Avoid scratching.

• Use fragrance-free detergents, cleansers, makeup, and other skincare products.

• When handling chemicals, wear protective gloves and clothing.

Lotions and creams for eczema

If you are struggling with eczema, lotions and creams might be your best solution. Lotions are more effective at moisturising eczema skin than soap is. Avoid using harsh soaps on eczema skin, as it can make the condition worse rather than better!

Do home remedies for eczema really work?

Eczema is a skin condition that can be quite severe and difficult to treat. While there are various types of eczema, all of them share the common characteristic of being itchy and dry. Home remedies for eczema are often touted as effective treatment options, but this is not always the case. Eczema can be treated with a combination of therapies, including moisturisers, Hydrocortisone creams, and antihistamines. Also relaxation techniques like meditation and biofeedback therapy.

How to prevent an eczema flare-up

Preventing eczema flare-ups is all about taking care of your skin. There are various treatments available, as well as topical creams and emollients to help soothe and moisturize the skin. However, it's important to be proactive in managing early eczema flare-ups - this will give you a better chance of successful treatment. Factors like environmental allergies or stress can often cause it. If left untreated, eczema usually worsens over time until it becomes chronic (ongoing).

Start your eczema treatment today!

Eczema is a common skin condition that affects people of all ages. Symptoms can vary from person to person, so it's essential to consult your doctor for a diagnosis. Once you know your symptoms, it's time to start on your treatment plan. Treatment starts with an assessment and then with the right meds and topical treatments. There are many types of eczema, so it's essential to find the right treatment plan that will work best for you. Remember, keeping up with your treatment plan is important, as eczema can flare up at any time.  If you're experiencing symptoms, you must consult your doctor as soon as possible.

Eczema can be pretty frustrating as it can be hard to find the right treatment that works for you. However following the tips outlined in this blog, you can start your treatment today and feel better soon! Don't wait any longer - start treating your eczema today!