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+91 7026222222Copyright @ 2026. All Rights Reserved
+91 7026222222Copyright @ 2026. All Rights Reserved
+91 7026222222Copyright @ 2026. All Rights Reserved
Sep 30, 2026
|
2 min
Skin that is dry, itchy and inflamed, sometimes to the point of disturbing your sleep, is a common reason people visit a dermatologist. Often the cause is eczema. It affects people of all ages, tends to come and go, and can be controlled well with the right care. [1,2]
This guide explains what eczema is, the main eczema symptoms and causes, how to identify an eczema rash, whether eczema is contagious, and what treatment options are available.
If you are asking what is eczema, it is the name for a group of conditions that make the skin inflamed, dry, itchy and easily irritated. The most common type is atopic dermatitis, which often begins in childhood but can start at any age. [1,2]
Eczema is a long-term (chronic) condition. It usually flares up from time to time and settles in between. It is not caused by poor hygiene, and it is not a sign that you are unwell in general.
Common types of eczema include:[AD3]
• Atopic dermatitis: The most common form, linked with dry, sensitive skin and often with allergies or asthma in the person or their family.
• Contact dermatitis: A reaction to something that touches the skin, either an irritant (such as harsh soaps) or an allergen (such as nickel or fragrance).
• Dyshidrotic eczema: Small, itchy blisters, usually on the palms, sides of the fingers and soles.
• Nummular eczema: Round, coin-shaped patches, often on the legs and arms.
• Seborrhoeic dermatitis: Scaly, greasy patches, often on the scalp, face and chest. [2,3]
The eczema symptoms differ from person to person and change with the type and the stage of a flare. Common signs include:
• Dry, rough or scaly skin
• Intense itching, which is often worse at night
• Red patches on lighter skin; brown, purple or greyish patches on darker skin
• Small raised bumps that may leak fluid and crust over when scratched
• Thickened, leathery skin from long-term scratching
• Cracked, sore or raw skin
Because redness can be harder to see on brown and black skin, look for changes in colour, texture and dryness, and not just for redness. [1,2]
There is no single test for eczema, and doctors usually diagnose it by examining the skin and asking about your history. These clues can help you work out how to identify eczema:
• Itch first: Eczema is often called "the itch that rashes". The itching often starts before the rash appears.
• Typical locations: The eczema rash often appears in babies on the cheeks and scalp; in children on the insides of the elbows and behind the knees; and in adults on the hands, neck, eyelids and skin folds. [1,2]
• Chronic, relapsing pattern: It improves and then comes back, often in the same areas.
• Family or personal history: Asthma, hay fever or other allergies in the family can point towards atopic eczema.
Several other skin conditions, such as psoriasis, fungal infections and scabies, can look similar. If you are not sure what is causing your rash, get it checked by a dermatologist and avoid applying creams, especially steroid creams, without advice.
There is no single cause. The main eczema causes are thought to be a combination of:
• A weakened skin barrier: Skin affected by eczema loses moisture more easily and lets irritants and allergens in more easily. Changes in genes that help maintain the skin barrier, such as the filaggrin gene, are linked with atopic eczema. [1,2]
• An overactive immune response: The immune system reacts strongly to substances that are normally harmless, causing inflammation.
• Genetics and family history: Eczema, asthma and hay fever often run in families.
• Environmental factors: Dry climates, pollution and other conditions can contribute.
Triggers do not cause eczema, but they can set off a flare or make one worse. They vary from person to person. Common ones include:
• Irritants: Harsh soaps, detergents, shampoos, body washes and hand sanitisers
• Allergens: Dust mites, pollen, pet dander and mould
• Heat and sweat: Hot weather, hot showers and overheating
• Dry air: Cold, dry weather or air-conditioned rooms
• Fabrics: Wool and rough or synthetic materials
• Stress and tiredness: These can make symptoms worse
• Infections: Skin infections can trigger or aggravate a flare
• Food allergies: In some children, certain foods can trigger flares, but this should be confirmed by a doctor before any foods are cut out. [1,2]
Keeping a note of what you were exposed to before a flare can help you spot your own triggers.
No. Is eczema contagious is a common worry, especially for parents, but you cannot catch eczema from another person through touch, sharing towels or being in close contact. [1,2]
However, skin that is broken by scratching can become infected with bacteria or viruses, and those infections can be contagious. Watch for yellow crusts, pus, increased pain or redness, or fever, and see a doctor promptly if they appear.
There is currently no permanent cure for atopic eczema, but treatment can keep symptoms under control and allow long periods without flares. [1,2,3]
This is the foundation of eczema care. Apply a fragrance-free emollient or moisturiser liberally at least once or twice a day, and straight after bathing, while the skin is still slightly damp.
Use lukewarm water, keep baths or showers short, use a mild, soap-free cleanser, and pat the skin dry instead of rubbing.
For flares, doctors often prescribe topical corticosteroids, or non-steroid creams such as calcineurin inhibitors. Use them as directed by your doctor, in the strength and for the duration advised, particularly on the face and on children's skin. [2,3]
Keep nails short, cover the area if you scratch in your sleep, and use cool compresses. Your doctor may suggest other measures for severe itching.
If the skin becomes infected, antibiotic, antiviral or antifungal medicine may be needed.
When eczema is severe or does not respond to creams, a dermatologist may consider options such as light therapy (phototherapy), oral medicines or newer biologic treatments. [2,3]
• Identify and avoid your personal triggers.
• Choose soft, breathable cotton clothing, and wash new clothes before wearing them.
• Use a fragrance-free detergent and rinse clothes well.
• Keep your home clean and dust-free, and wash bedding regularly in hot water.
• Avoid very hot or very cold environments, and take care to avoid overheating.
• Find ways to manage stress, such as regular exercise, enough sleep and relaxation.
See a dermatologist doctor if:
• The itching or rash disturbs your sleep or daily activities
• Over-the-counter moisturisers and creams do not help
• The skin looks infected (pus, yellow crusts, warmth, swelling) or you have a fever
• The rash is widespread, or affects the face or eyes
• You are unsure what is causing your rash, or your baby has a persistent rash
Also Read - Effective Acne Scar Treatments for Clear Skin: Your Guide to Dermatology Solutions
Dry, itchy skin is often the first sign. Red or discoloured patches, small bumps and rough skin usually follow, particularly in the creases of the elbows and knees in children. [1,2]
Flare-ups are usually triggered by irritants, allergens, dry or hot weather, sweat, stress or infection. The triggers differ from person to person. [1,2]
No. Eczema cannot spread from person to person. [1,2]
There is no permanent cure for atopic eczema, but many people have long symptom-free periods with the right skin care and treatment. Many children also find that their eczema improves as they grow older. [1,3]
Food is not the main cause of eczema, although it can trigger flares in some children and a few adults. Avoid cutting out foods without medical advice. [1,2]
Eczema is typically itchy, dry and recurring, and appears in characteristic places. Because other conditions can look similar, a dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis. [2]
Eczema is common and manageable. Learning your triggers, moisturising consistently and getting medical advice when flares are frequent or severe can help you keep your skin comfortable.
At Narayana One Health, our dermatology team can help diagnose the cause of your rash and build a treatment plan that suits you.
Dealing with itchy, recurring skin flares? Book a consultation with our dermatology team today.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for general educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Skin conditions can look alike, and diagnosis and treatment should be guided by a qualified healthcare professional. Consult a dermatologist for personalised guidance.
• Mayo Clinic. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): Symptoms and Causes. Read the Mayo Clinic information
• American Academy of Dermatology Association. Eczema: Overview. Read the AAD information
• NHS. Atopic Eczema. Read the NHS information
+91 7026222222Copyright @ 2026. All Rights Reserved
Sep 30, 2026
|
2 min
Skin that is dry, itchy and inflamed, sometimes to the point of disturbing your sleep, is a common reason people visit a dermatologist. Often the cause is eczema. It affects people of all ages, tends to come and go, and can be controlled well with the right care. [1,2]
This guide explains what eczema is, the main eczema symptoms and causes, how to identify an eczema rash, whether eczema is contagious, and what treatment options are available.
If you are asking what is eczema, it is the name for a group of conditions that make the skin inflamed, dry, itchy and easily irritated. The most common type is atopic dermatitis, which often begins in childhood but can start at any age. [1,2]
Eczema is a long-term (chronic) condition. It usually flares up from time to time and settles in between. It is not caused by poor hygiene, and it is not a sign that you are unwell in general.
Common types of eczema include:[AD3]
• Atopic dermatitis: The most common form, linked with dry, sensitive skin and often with allergies or asthma in the person or their family.
• Contact dermatitis: A reaction to something that touches the skin, either an irritant (such as harsh soaps) or an allergen (such as nickel or fragrance).
• Dyshidrotic eczema: Small, itchy blisters, usually on the palms, sides of the fingers and soles.
• Nummular eczema: Round, coin-shaped patches, often on the legs and arms.
• Seborrhoeic dermatitis: Scaly, greasy patches, often on the scalp, face and chest. [2,3]
The eczema symptoms differ from person to person and change with the type and the stage of a flare. Common signs include:
• Dry, rough or scaly skin
• Intense itching, which is often worse at night
• Red patches on lighter skin; brown, purple or greyish patches on darker skin
• Small raised bumps that may leak fluid and crust over when scratched
• Thickened, leathery skin from long-term scratching
• Cracked, sore or raw skin
Because redness can be harder to see on brown and black skin, look for changes in colour, texture and dryness, and not just for redness. [1,2]
There is no single test for eczema, and doctors usually diagnose it by examining the skin and asking about your history. These clues can help you work out how to identify eczema:
• Itch first: Eczema is often called "the itch that rashes". The itching often starts before the rash appears.
• Typical locations: The eczema rash often appears in babies on the cheeks and scalp; in children on the insides of the elbows and behind the knees; and in adults on the hands, neck, eyelids and skin folds. [1,2]
• Chronic, relapsing pattern: It improves and then comes back, often in the same areas.
• Family or personal history: Asthma, hay fever or other allergies in the family can point towards atopic eczema.
Several other skin conditions, such as psoriasis, fungal infections and scabies, can look similar. If you are not sure what is causing your rash, get it checked by a dermatologist and avoid applying creams, especially steroid creams, without advice.
There is no single cause. The main eczema causes are thought to be a combination of:
• A weakened skin barrier: Skin affected by eczema loses moisture more easily and lets irritants and allergens in more easily. Changes in genes that help maintain the skin barrier, such as the filaggrin gene, are linked with atopic eczema. [1,2]
• An overactive immune response: The immune system reacts strongly to substances that are normally harmless, causing inflammation.
• Genetics and family history: Eczema, asthma and hay fever often run in families.
• Environmental factors: Dry climates, pollution and other conditions can contribute.
Triggers do not cause eczema, but they can set off a flare or make one worse. They vary from person to person. Common ones include:
• Irritants: Harsh soaps, detergents, shampoos, body washes and hand sanitisers
• Allergens: Dust mites, pollen, pet dander and mould
• Heat and sweat: Hot weather, hot showers and overheating
• Dry air: Cold, dry weather or air-conditioned rooms
• Fabrics: Wool and rough or synthetic materials
• Stress and tiredness: These can make symptoms worse
• Infections: Skin infections can trigger or aggravate a flare
• Food allergies: In some children, certain foods can trigger flares, but this should be confirmed by a doctor before any foods are cut out. [1,2]
Keeping a note of what you were exposed to before a flare can help you spot your own triggers.
No. Is eczema contagious is a common worry, especially for parents, but you cannot catch eczema from another person through touch, sharing towels or being in close contact. [1,2]
However, skin that is broken by scratching can become infected with bacteria or viruses, and those infections can be contagious. Watch for yellow crusts, pus, increased pain or redness, or fever, and see a doctor promptly if they appear.
There is currently no permanent cure for atopic eczema, but treatment can keep symptoms under control and allow long periods without flares. [1,2,3]
This is the foundation of eczema care. Apply a fragrance-free emollient or moisturiser liberally at least once or twice a day, and straight after bathing, while the skin is still slightly damp.
Use lukewarm water, keep baths or showers short, use a mild, soap-free cleanser, and pat the skin dry instead of rubbing.
For flares, doctors often prescribe topical corticosteroids, or non-steroid creams such as calcineurin inhibitors. Use them as directed by your doctor, in the strength and for the duration advised, particularly on the face and on children's skin. [2,3]
Keep nails short, cover the area if you scratch in your sleep, and use cool compresses. Your doctor may suggest other measures for severe itching.
If the skin becomes infected, antibiotic, antiviral or antifungal medicine may be needed.
When eczema is severe or does not respond to creams, a dermatologist may consider options such as light therapy (phototherapy), oral medicines or newer biologic treatments. [2,3]
• Identify and avoid your personal triggers.
• Choose soft, breathable cotton clothing, and wash new clothes before wearing them.
• Use a fragrance-free detergent and rinse clothes well.
• Keep your home clean and dust-free, and wash bedding regularly in hot water.
• Avoid very hot or very cold environments, and take care to avoid overheating.
• Find ways to manage stress, such as regular exercise, enough sleep and relaxation.
See a dermatologist doctor if:
• The itching or rash disturbs your sleep or daily activities
• Over-the-counter moisturisers and creams do not help
• The skin looks infected (pus, yellow crusts, warmth, swelling) or you have a fever
• The rash is widespread, or affects the face or eyes
• You are unsure what is causing your rash, or your baby has a persistent rash
Also Read - Effective Acne Scar Treatments for Clear Skin: Your Guide to Dermatology Solutions
Dry, itchy skin is often the first sign. Red or discoloured patches, small bumps and rough skin usually follow, particularly in the creases of the elbows and knees in children. [1,2]
Flare-ups are usually triggered by irritants, allergens, dry or hot weather, sweat, stress or infection. The triggers differ from person to person. [1,2]
No. Eczema cannot spread from person to person. [1,2]
There is no permanent cure for atopic eczema, but many people have long symptom-free periods with the right skin care and treatment. Many children also find that their eczema improves as they grow older. [1,3]
Food is not the main cause of eczema, although it can trigger flares in some children and a few adults. Avoid cutting out foods without medical advice. [1,2]
Eczema is typically itchy, dry and recurring, and appears in characteristic places. Because other conditions can look similar, a dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis. [2]
Eczema is common and manageable. Learning your triggers, moisturising consistently and getting medical advice when flares are frequent or severe can help you keep your skin comfortable.
At Narayana One Health, our dermatology team can help diagnose the cause of your rash and build a treatment plan that suits you.
Dealing with itchy, recurring skin flares? Book a consultation with our dermatology team today.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for general educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Skin conditions can look alike, and diagnosis and treatment should be guided by a qualified healthcare professional. Consult a dermatologist for personalised guidance.
• Mayo Clinic. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): Symptoms and Causes. Read the Mayo Clinic information
• American Academy of Dermatology Association. Eczema: Overview. Read the AAD information
• NHS. Atopic Eczema. Read the NHS information
Sep 30, 2026
|
2 min
Skin that is dry, itchy and inflamed, sometimes to the point of disturbing your sleep, is a common reason people visit a dermatologist. Often the cause is eczema. It affects people of all ages, tends to come and go, and can be controlled well with the right care. [1,2]
This guide explains what eczema is, the main eczema symptoms and causes, how to identify an eczema rash, whether eczema is contagious, and what treatment options are available.
If you are asking what is eczema, it is the name for a group of conditions that make the skin inflamed, dry, itchy and easily irritated. The most common type is atopic dermatitis, which often begins in childhood but can start at any age. [1,2]
Eczema is a long-term (chronic) condition. It usually flares up from time to time and settles in between. It is not caused by poor hygiene, and it is not a sign that you are unwell in general.
Common types of eczema include:[AD3]
• Atopic dermatitis: The most common form, linked with dry, sensitive skin and often with allergies or asthma in the person or their family.
• Contact dermatitis: A reaction to something that touches the skin, either an irritant (such as harsh soaps) or an allergen (such as nickel or fragrance).
• Dyshidrotic eczema: Small, itchy blisters, usually on the palms, sides of the fingers and soles.
• Nummular eczema: Round, coin-shaped patches, often on the legs and arms.
• Seborrhoeic dermatitis: Scaly, greasy patches, often on the scalp, face and chest. [2,3]
The eczema symptoms differ from person to person and change with the type and the stage of a flare. Common signs include:
• Dry, rough or scaly skin
• Intense itching, which is often worse at night
• Red patches on lighter skin; brown, purple or greyish patches on darker skin
• Small raised bumps that may leak fluid and crust over when scratched
• Thickened, leathery skin from long-term scratching
• Cracked, sore or raw skin
Because redness can be harder to see on brown and black skin, look for changes in colour, texture and dryness, and not just for redness. [1,2]
There is no single test for eczema, and doctors usually diagnose it by examining the skin and asking about your history. These clues can help you work out how to identify eczema:
• Itch first: Eczema is often called "the itch that rashes". The itching often starts before the rash appears.
• Typical locations: The eczema rash often appears in babies on the cheeks and scalp; in children on the insides of the elbows and behind the knees; and in adults on the hands, neck, eyelids and skin folds. [1,2]
• Chronic, relapsing pattern: It improves and then comes back, often in the same areas.
• Family or personal history: Asthma, hay fever or other allergies in the family can point towards atopic eczema.
Several other skin conditions, such as psoriasis, fungal infections and scabies, can look similar. If you are not sure what is causing your rash, get it checked by a dermatologist and avoid applying creams, especially steroid creams, without advice.
There is no single cause. The main eczema causes are thought to be a combination of:
• A weakened skin barrier: Skin affected by eczema loses moisture more easily and lets irritants and allergens in more easily. Changes in genes that help maintain the skin barrier, such as the filaggrin gene, are linked with atopic eczema. [1,2]
• An overactive immune response: The immune system reacts strongly to substances that are normally harmless, causing inflammation.
• Genetics and family history: Eczema, asthma and hay fever often run in families.
• Environmental factors: Dry climates, pollution and other conditions can contribute.
Triggers do not cause eczema, but they can set off a flare or make one worse. They vary from person to person. Common ones include:
• Irritants: Harsh soaps, detergents, shampoos, body washes and hand sanitisers
• Allergens: Dust mites, pollen, pet dander and mould
• Heat and sweat: Hot weather, hot showers and overheating
• Dry air: Cold, dry weather or air-conditioned rooms
• Fabrics: Wool and rough or synthetic materials
• Stress and tiredness: These can make symptoms worse
• Infections: Skin infections can trigger or aggravate a flare
• Food allergies: In some children, certain foods can trigger flares, but this should be confirmed by a doctor before any foods are cut out. [1,2]
Keeping a note of what you were exposed to before a flare can help you spot your own triggers.
No. Is eczema contagious is a common worry, especially for parents, but you cannot catch eczema from another person through touch, sharing towels or being in close contact. [1,2]
However, skin that is broken by scratching can become infected with bacteria or viruses, and those infections can be contagious. Watch for yellow crusts, pus, increased pain or redness, or fever, and see a doctor promptly if they appear.
There is currently no permanent cure for atopic eczema, but treatment can keep symptoms under control and allow long periods without flares. [1,2,3]
This is the foundation of eczema care. Apply a fragrance-free emollient or moisturiser liberally at least once or twice a day, and straight after bathing, while the skin is still slightly damp.
Use lukewarm water, keep baths or showers short, use a mild, soap-free cleanser, and pat the skin dry instead of rubbing.
For flares, doctors often prescribe topical corticosteroids, or non-steroid creams such as calcineurin inhibitors. Use them as directed by your doctor, in the strength and for the duration advised, particularly on the face and on children's skin. [2,3]
Keep nails short, cover the area if you scratch in your sleep, and use cool compresses. Your doctor may suggest other measures for severe itching.
If the skin becomes infected, antibiotic, antiviral or antifungal medicine may be needed.
When eczema is severe or does not respond to creams, a dermatologist may consider options such as light therapy (phototherapy), oral medicines or newer biologic treatments. [2,3]
• Identify and avoid your personal triggers.
• Choose soft, breathable cotton clothing, and wash new clothes before wearing them.
• Use a fragrance-free detergent and rinse clothes well.
• Keep your home clean and dust-free, and wash bedding regularly in hot water.
• Avoid very hot or very cold environments, and take care to avoid overheating.
• Find ways to manage stress, such as regular exercise, enough sleep and relaxation.
See a dermatologist doctor if:
• The itching or rash disturbs your sleep or daily activities
• Over-the-counter moisturisers and creams do not help
• The skin looks infected (pus, yellow crusts, warmth, swelling) or you have a fever
• The rash is widespread, or affects the face or eyes
• You are unsure what is causing your rash, or your baby has a persistent rash
Also Read - Effective Acne Scar Treatments for Clear Skin: Your Guide to Dermatology Solutions
Dry, itchy skin is often the first sign. Red or discoloured patches, small bumps and rough skin usually follow, particularly in the creases of the elbows and knees in children. [1,2]
Flare-ups are usually triggered by irritants, allergens, dry or hot weather, sweat, stress or infection. The triggers differ from person to person. [1,2]
No. Eczema cannot spread from person to person. [1,2]
There is no permanent cure for atopic eczema, but many people have long symptom-free periods with the right skin care and treatment. Many children also find that their eczema improves as they grow older. [1,3]
Food is not the main cause of eczema, although it can trigger flares in some children and a few adults. Avoid cutting out foods without medical advice. [1,2]
Eczema is typically itchy, dry and recurring, and appears in characteristic places. Because other conditions can look similar, a dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis. [2]
Eczema is common and manageable. Learning your triggers, moisturising consistently and getting medical advice when flares are frequent or severe can help you keep your skin comfortable.
At Narayana One Health, our dermatology team can help diagnose the cause of your rash and build a treatment plan that suits you.
Dealing with itchy, recurring skin flares? Book a consultation with our dermatology team today.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for general educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Skin conditions can look alike, and diagnosis and treatment should be guided by a qualified healthcare professional. Consult a dermatologist for personalised guidance.
• Mayo Clinic. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): Symptoms and Causes. Read the Mayo Clinic information
• American Academy of Dermatology Association. Eczema: Overview. Read the AAD information
• NHS. Atopic Eczema. Read the NHS information
Sep 30, 2026
|
2 min
Skin that is dry, itchy and inflamed, sometimes to the point of disturbing your sleep, is a common reason people visit a dermatologist. Often the cause is eczema. It affects people of all ages, tends to come and go, and can be controlled well with the right care. [1,2]
This guide explains what eczema is, the main eczema symptoms and causes, how to identify an eczema rash, whether eczema is contagious, and what treatment options are available.
If you are asking what is eczema, it is the name for a group of conditions that make the skin inflamed, dry, itchy and easily irritated. The most common type is atopic dermatitis, which often begins in childhood but can start at any age. [1,2]
Eczema is a long-term (chronic) condition. It usually flares up from time to time and settles in between. It is not caused by poor hygiene, and it is not a sign that you are unwell in general.
Common types of eczema include:[AD3]
• Atopic dermatitis: The most common form, linked with dry, sensitive skin and often with allergies or asthma in the person or their family.
• Contact dermatitis: A reaction to something that touches the skin, either an irritant (such as harsh soaps) or an allergen (such as nickel or fragrance).
• Dyshidrotic eczema: Small, itchy blisters, usually on the palms, sides of the fingers and soles.
• Nummular eczema: Round, coin-shaped patches, often on the legs and arms.
• Seborrhoeic dermatitis: Scaly, greasy patches, often on the scalp, face and chest. [2,3]
The eczema symptoms differ from person to person and change with the type and the stage of a flare. Common signs include:
• Dry, rough or scaly skin
• Intense itching, which is often worse at night
• Red patches on lighter skin; brown, purple or greyish patches on darker skin
• Small raised bumps that may leak fluid and crust over when scratched
• Thickened, leathery skin from long-term scratching
• Cracked, sore or raw skin
Because redness can be harder to see on brown and black skin, look for changes in colour, texture and dryness, and not just for redness. [1,2]
There is no single test for eczema, and doctors usually diagnose it by examining the skin and asking about your history. These clues can help you work out how to identify eczema:
• Itch first: Eczema is often called "the itch that rashes". The itching often starts before the rash appears.
• Typical locations: The eczema rash often appears in babies on the cheeks and scalp; in children on the insides of the elbows and behind the knees; and in adults on the hands, neck, eyelids and skin folds. [1,2]
• Chronic, relapsing pattern: It improves and then comes back, often in the same areas.
• Family or personal history: Asthma, hay fever or other allergies in the family can point towards atopic eczema.
Several other skin conditions, such as psoriasis, fungal infections and scabies, can look similar. If you are not sure what is causing your rash, get it checked by a dermatologist and avoid applying creams, especially steroid creams, without advice.
There is no single cause. The main eczema causes are thought to be a combination of:
• A weakened skin barrier: Skin affected by eczema loses moisture more easily and lets irritants and allergens in more easily. Changes in genes that help maintain the skin barrier, such as the filaggrin gene, are linked with atopic eczema. [1,2]
• An overactive immune response: The immune system reacts strongly to substances that are normally harmless, causing inflammation.
• Genetics and family history: Eczema, asthma and hay fever often run in families.
• Environmental factors: Dry climates, pollution and other conditions can contribute.
Triggers do not cause eczema, but they can set off a flare or make one worse. They vary from person to person. Common ones include:
• Irritants: Harsh soaps, detergents, shampoos, body washes and hand sanitisers
• Allergens: Dust mites, pollen, pet dander and mould
• Heat and sweat: Hot weather, hot showers and overheating
• Dry air: Cold, dry weather or air-conditioned rooms
• Fabrics: Wool and rough or synthetic materials
• Stress and tiredness: These can make symptoms worse
• Infections: Skin infections can trigger or aggravate a flare
• Food allergies: In some children, certain foods can trigger flares, but this should be confirmed by a doctor before any foods are cut out. [1,2]
Keeping a note of what you were exposed to before a flare can help you spot your own triggers.
No. Is eczema contagious is a common worry, especially for parents, but you cannot catch eczema from another person through touch, sharing towels or being in close contact. [1,2]
However, skin that is broken by scratching can become infected with bacteria or viruses, and those infections can be contagious. Watch for yellow crusts, pus, increased pain or redness, or fever, and see a doctor promptly if they appear.
There is currently no permanent cure for atopic eczema, but treatment can keep symptoms under control and allow long periods without flares. [1,2,3]
This is the foundation of eczema care. Apply a fragrance-free emollient or moisturiser liberally at least once or twice a day, and straight after bathing, while the skin is still slightly damp.
Use lukewarm water, keep baths or showers short, use a mild, soap-free cleanser, and pat the skin dry instead of rubbing.
For flares, doctors often prescribe topical corticosteroids, or non-steroid creams such as calcineurin inhibitors. Use them as directed by your doctor, in the strength and for the duration advised, particularly on the face and on children's skin. [2,3]
Keep nails short, cover the area if you scratch in your sleep, and use cool compresses. Your doctor may suggest other measures for severe itching.
If the skin becomes infected, antibiotic, antiviral or antifungal medicine may be needed.
When eczema is severe or does not respond to creams, a dermatologist may consider options such as light therapy (phototherapy), oral medicines or newer biologic treatments. [2,3]
• Identify and avoid your personal triggers.
• Choose soft, breathable cotton clothing, and wash new clothes before wearing them.
• Use a fragrance-free detergent and rinse clothes well.
• Keep your home clean and dust-free, and wash bedding regularly in hot water.
• Avoid very hot or very cold environments, and take care to avoid overheating.
• Find ways to manage stress, such as regular exercise, enough sleep and relaxation.
See a dermatologist doctor if:
• The itching or rash disturbs your sleep or daily activities
• Over-the-counter moisturisers and creams do not help
• The skin looks infected (pus, yellow crusts, warmth, swelling) or you have a fever
• The rash is widespread, or affects the face or eyes
• You are unsure what is causing your rash, or your baby has a persistent rash
Also Read - Effective Acne Scar Treatments for Clear Skin: Your Guide to Dermatology Solutions
Dry, itchy skin is often the first sign. Red or discoloured patches, small bumps and rough skin usually follow, particularly in the creases of the elbows and knees in children. [1,2]
Flare-ups are usually triggered by irritants, allergens, dry or hot weather, sweat, stress or infection. The triggers differ from person to person. [1,2]
No. Eczema cannot spread from person to person. [1,2]
There is no permanent cure for atopic eczema, but many people have long symptom-free periods with the right skin care and treatment. Many children also find that their eczema improves as they grow older. [1,3]
Food is not the main cause of eczema, although it can trigger flares in some children and a few adults. Avoid cutting out foods without medical advice. [1,2]
Eczema is typically itchy, dry and recurring, and appears in characteristic places. Because other conditions can look similar, a dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis. [2]
Eczema is common and manageable. Learning your triggers, moisturising consistently and getting medical advice when flares are frequent or severe can help you keep your skin comfortable.
At Narayana One Health, our dermatology team can help diagnose the cause of your rash and build a treatment plan that suits you.
Dealing with itchy, recurring skin flares? Book a consultation with our dermatology team today.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for general educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Skin conditions can look alike, and diagnosis and treatment should be guided by a qualified healthcare professional. Consult a dermatologist for personalised guidance.
• Mayo Clinic. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): Symptoms and Causes. Read the Mayo Clinic information
• American Academy of Dermatology Association. Eczema: Overview. Read the AAD information
• NHS. Atopic Eczema. Read the NHS information