Eczema is a chronic condition having red, itchy, and inflammatory skin as its signs. Eczema skin disease can develop in early childhood and remain throughout life; however, symptoms of eczema may appear in adults, too. In this blog, we will discuss different types of eczema, their causes and suitable remedies, as each type has its unique characteristics.
Types of Eczema
Below are the various types of eczema:
1. Atopic Dermatitis
The most common type of eczema is Atopic dermatitis or papular eczema. It starts commonly in childhood but can remain throughout life, having a negative impact on the skin’s barrier function.
Causes of Atopic Dermatitis
Here are the known causes of atopic dermatitis:
- Genetics
- Weak immune system
- Environmental triggers
- Dry skin
- Changes in temperature or humidity
- Emotional stress and psychological factors
- Certain foods or food allergies
- Exposure to tobacco smoke
- Microbes like bacteria or viruses
Remedies for Atopic Dermatitis
Here are some of the effective remedies for atopic dermatitis:
- Moisturise at least twice daily
- Avoid scratching
- Use anti-allergy medications
- Wear loose, comfortable clothes
- Use unscented soaps
- Use humidifier
2. Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a skin reaction caused by direct contact with irritants or allergens.
Causes of Contact Dermatitis
The most common causes of contact dermatitis include:
- Exposure to irritants like chemicals, detergents, or solvents
- Allergic reaction to substances such as latex, nickel, or fragrances
- Contact with plants like poison ivy or poison oak
- Certain medications or topical treatments
- Occupational exposure to chemicals or allergens
- Physical triggers like heat, friction, or pressure on the skin
Remedies for Contact Dermatitis
The self-management techniques for contact dermatitis include:
- Avoid irritants or allergens causing the reaction.
- Cleanse the affected area gently with mild soap and water.
- Use of OTC anti-itching medications.
- Use moisturisers to soothe and hydrate the skin.
- Cool compress to reduce inflammation.
3. Dyshidrotic Eczema
Dyshidrotic eczema is marked by blisters and itchy skin. The outbreak is typically felt on fingers, hands, and feet.
Causes of Dyshidrotic Eczema
Here are some factors that can cause Dyshidrotic eczema:
- Allergic reaction to metals or certain substances
- Exposure to irritants like detergents or solvents
- Sweating or excessive moisture on the skin
- Genetic predisposition or family history of eczema
Remedies for Dyshidrotic Eczema
Dyshidrotic eczema can be treated by a combination of skincare routines using the products that you have at home. However, in case of severe eczema symptoms, one may need to use prescribed medicines. Dyshidrotic eczema is prone to flare-ups. Following a good skincare routine and using suitable medications can help manage the symptoms well.
4. Neurodermatitis
Neurodermatitis, also known as lichen simplex chronicus, is a skin condition characterised by intense itching and the formation of thick, scaly patches on the skin. The correction often requires medical intervention.
Causes of Neurodermatitis
The key causes include:
- Nerve injury
- Insect bite
- Dry skin
- Tight clothes
- Other skin diseases like psoriasis
Remedies for Neurodermatitis
Here are some of the common remedies for Neurodermatitis:
- Prescription medicines for itching and inflammation
- Anti-allergic medications to control symptoms
- Skincare routine for proper skin hydration
- Coal tar preparation to shed dry skin
- Cool compress
5. Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis is characterised by red, itchy patches and dandruff-like flakes. These are primarily visible in areas with a high concentration of oil glands, such as the scalp, face, and upper chest.
Causes of Seborrheic Dermatitis
The common causes that fuel the outbreak are:
- Overgrowth of Malassezia, a type of yeast that naturally occurs on the skin.
- Overproduction of oil by the sebaceous glands
- Hormonal imbalances
- Genetic factors
Remedies for Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic Dermatitis rarely settles on its own. Some common remedies include:
- Use of medicated shampoos or cleansers containing ingredients like ketoconazole, selenium sulphide, or pyrithione zinc.
- Topical application of corticosteroids or antifungal creams
- Gentle cleansing and regular moisturising
- No harsh soaps and irritating products
6. Nummular Eczema
Nummular eczema, also known as discoid eczema, has a distinct appearance as compared to other types of eczema. It is marked by round, coin-like spots on the skin that itch a lot.
Cause of Nummular Eczema
The main causes of nummular eczema include:
- Allergic reaction
- Use of rough fabrics
- Extremely dry skin or cold weather conditions
- Frequent hot water baths
- Skin injury
Remedies for Nummular Eczema
The treatment for nummular eczema aims at:
- Clearing infection
- Symptom management
- Restoring natural skin barrier
- Skincare routine to prevent future flare-ups
7. Stasis Dermatitis
Stasis dermatitis is also known as gravitational eczema or venous eczema. It is a skin condition that occurs due to poor blood circulation in the legs. The causes of stasis eczema include:
- Impaired blood flow in the veins of the legs
- Weak or damaged valves in the leg veins
- Prolonged standing or sitting
- Obesity or excess weight
- Previous history of blood clots or deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Remedies for Stasis Dermatitis
Here are some of the common remedies for this eczema:
- Compression therapy with stockings or bandages to improve blood flow in the legs
- Elevating the legs to reduce swelling
- Topical use of medicated creams to manage inflammation and itching
- Antibiotics for treating infection
- Addressing the underlying cause of venous insufficiency.
- Lifestyle modifications, such as regular exercise and weight management
Conclusion
The hallmarks of eczema are itchy, inflamed, and irritated skin. As said earlier, there are many varieties of eczema, including atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, neurodermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, nummular eczema, and stasis dermatitis. However, each variety of eczema is characterised by its own set of symptoms and causes. Additionally, each type of eczema has its own treatment plan.
For knowing eczema causes and treatment, it is crucial to visit a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis. One can manage eczema symptoms easily with appropriate treatment and self-care. However, eczema can last for years, so it needs ongoing care to keep the signs hidden.
