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Subscribe NowAbout Eczema
what is eczema?
Also known as Atopic Dermatitis or Atopic Eczema
Eczema is a chronic and complex itchy skin condition. But it is more than just a skin condition. For those living with eczema, it can vary from a mild to moderate itch to an extremely itchy, painful and debilitating condition, with huge effects on quality of life. It can look very different in babies/children and teens/adults. It also looks different in skin of colour.
Although there is no cure for eczema there are things you can do to manage the symptoms.
Download Information Sheet Download Eczema Care Plan
Eczema in Babies & Children
Eczema is a common condition that affects many families, and we understand the challenges it brings. Below you will find trusted and easy to follow information to care for your baby or child with eczema. All information has been endorsed by experts in caring for babies, children and eczema.
Teens with eczema
Eczema in teenagers is not often discussed. It can be difficult to navigate through the mental, emotional and physical affects of eczema. Information and support at this stage of life is important.
Adult Eczema
Some people have lifelong disease, others may not develop the symptoms until adulthood. It can be localised or widespread, and it may be severe and difficult to treat. Even if the eczema/atopic dermatitis is confined to just the hands, the impact on quality of life is huge.
Hand Eczema
Hand eczema, also called hand dermatitis, is a common skin condition that makes your hands itchy, red, cracked, or covered in rashes. There may be dry, flaky skin, small blisters or crusts. It can happen on its own or alongside atopic eczema. Sometimes, it’s caused by touching things that irritate the skin (contact dermatitis). Hand eczema can be painful and make everyday tasks like writing, cooking, or using a computer difficult.
For more information, see our factsheet and join our Facebook group for understanding and support.
causes
What causes eczema?
There is no single cause of eczema, it can be caused by a mixture of things.
- Eczema can run in families
- The immune system over-reacts
- The skin works less well as a barrier
Things such as soaps or washing powders can make eczema worse.
There is no single cause of eczema but we know tht is is influenced by a mixture of things. Eczema can be influenced by genetics (runs in the family), a skin barrier problem (making it less able to protect agains irritants or lock in moisture) and an overactive immune system. Eczema is NOT contagious.
This video from the Eczema Care Online Toolkit helps explain what eczema is and the causes of eczema flares.
Atopic Dermatitis Atopic Eczema
Contact Dermatitis
Dyshidrotic Eczema
Neurodermatitis
Discoid Eczema
Stasis Dermatitis
Seborrhoeic Dermatitis
Living with eczema
Types of eczema
Eczema is a chronic skin condition but, as the saying goes, one size does not fit all. While common symptoms include dry, scaly skin, redness and itchiness that may be intense, there are in fact seven different types of eczema, all of which have their own unique characteristics and triggers.
Download Information Sheet
TRIGGERS
What are the triggers of eczema?
The triggers of eczema are often different for each individual. It can be extremely frustrating as you try to work out the cause of each flare up.
Avoiding triggers and controlling flare ups/inflammation are ways in which you can manage your condition. But there is rarely just one trigger that will be responsible.
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Dry, Low Humidity Weather
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Dry Skin
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Clothing
e.g. coarse, scratchy wool, synthetic materials like polyester, tags, on clothing
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Skin Irritants
such as soaps and detergents.
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Food Allergies or Intolerances
Although there may be a link between food allergies and eczema, food is rarely the main eczema trigger (seek doctors/allergist/immunologist advice before eliminating foods)
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Viral and Bacterial Infections
can both seriously aggravate eczema. Herpes simplex (cold sores) may become widespread and require hospitalisation.
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Hot, Humid Weather Associated with Sweating
associated with sweating
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Skin Allergens
which cause allergic contact dermatitis such as perfume, preservatives in skincare products, metals such as nickel and many other.
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Stress
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Pollens, grasses and moulds
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Dust Mite
if there is an allergy to household dust mite.
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Pet dander and saliva
LEARN MORE
Frequently Asked Questions
Eczema is a chronic and complex itchy skin condition. But it is more than just a skin condition. For those living with eczema, it can vary from a mild to moderate itch to an extremely itchy, painful and debilitating condition, with huge effects on quality of life. There are different types of eczema, the most common being atopic eczema.
Visit the Eczema Resource Library to learn more.