If you have itchy, red skin that feels dry and scaly, you may be suffering from a skin condition called eczema.
Of the many different types of skin conditions, the most common is eczema. In fact, over 31 million Americans have eczema. But, unfortunately, it’s all too often misdiagnosed and misunderstood.
This may be partly because there are so many types of eczema that it can be difficult to tell what’s wrong with your skin.
Here we explore the types of eczema and how to treat them for healthier-looking skin. Keep reading to learn more!
What Is Eczema?
Eczema is not a disease itself but rather a general description of the skin’s reaction in several different medical conditions.
The symptoms of eczema usually start with tiny red blisters that ooze clear fluid. Next, you may experience patches of dry, red skin that sometimes burns or itches. The skin may also crack and bleed.
Eczema almost always is very itchy.
What Causes Eczema?
Everyone’s skin is different, and eczema can be caused by many different things ranging from allergic reactions to severe health conditions.
To find out what is causing your eczema, it can be helpful to identify the type of eczema that you have.
Different Types of Eczema
There are at least 11 types of skin conditions that can cause eczema. Therefore, it’s essential to correctly diagnose the cause of eczema so that you can select the proper treatment.
Some of the most common types of eczema include the following.
Atopic dermatitis
Atopic Dermatitis is a hereditary condition that causes a common type of eczema. Many people who have other kinds of allergies are often diagnosed with Atopic Dermatitis early in life.
Rashes typically form around skin creases, like elbows, knees, and the neck. It is also possible to see eczema on the face with Atopic Dermatitis.
Allergic contact dermatitis
When someone is allergic to a substance, their immune system reacts whenever they are exposed to it. When an allergy affects your skin and causes eczema, it is known as allergic contact dermatitis.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin condition whose symptoms can include a rash on the face, ears, scalp, and sometimes on the chest. It can cause an oozy, weepy rash behind the ears and can cover the whole body in infants.
Irritant dermatitis
It’s imperative to wash your skin, but over-washing or using harsh chemicals can damage it. Excessive washing or exposure to toxic substances can cause irritant dermatitis. Oftentimes, this appears as eczema on the hands.
Stasis Dermatitis
Many older adults experience poor circulation in the veins of their legs. This can lead to Stasis Dermatitis.
Redness and swelling of the skin in the legs are signs of Stasis Dermatitis.
Xerotic Eczema
If you have Xerotic Eczema, dryness can bring about the condition where your skin cracks and oozes. If you keep your skin moisturized and healthy, you can help prevent specific types of eczema, like this one.
Eczema Treatment
There are many types of eczema, but there are even more treatment options. Treatments can vary because of the nature of this skin condition. To find the eczema treatment that works best for you, do your research and consult a medical professional.
Discover More Skin and Beauty Tips
Eczema can be difficult to deal with, but with the right tools and knowledge, you can nurse your skin back to health. We hope our eczema guide has made things easier by giving you the information you need about the different types of eczema and eczema treatments.
If you’re looking for more skin and beauty tips and tricks, don’t hesitate to check out our blog!
