Eczema

Eczema

Eczema is skin disorder causing an itchy rash that appears red, rough and scaly. It may also appear as fluid-filled vesicules. It is an imfammatory reaction and it is not infectious. There are various forms of eczema. The most common forms are:

• Atopic eczema
• Allergic contact eczema
• Seborrhoeic eczema

Types of eczema

Atopic eczema

Atopic eczema is a form of eczema that occurs mainly in childhood. People with atopic eczema often develop allergies as well. Eczema usually develops in the first six months of life but can occur at any age. The duration may vary widely and, in some cases, eczema may be chronic.
The cause of atopic eczema is not fully known. There are probably several factors involved, including genetic predisposition and environmental factors.

Allergic contact eczema

Allergic contact eczema may develop in the course of a person’s life as a result of an allergy to substances the skin comes into contact with. Known forms of contact eczema are nickel allergy and perfume allergy. There are, however, many more forms of contact eczema. The dermatologists at Wetering Medical Centre can test you for contact allergies.

Seborrhoeic eczema

Seborrhoeic eczema is a form of eczema that is related to, and often occurs in association with, dandruff. It is a scaly rash that affects the scalp, eyebrows or side of the nose. Seborrhoeic eczema often gets worse in the winter, and if a person’s resistance to infection is low.

Treatments

There are many treatments for eczema. The cause can sometimes be removed but not always. If the cause cannot be removed, treatment mainly consist of fighting the symptoms using ointments and creams. Medication or light therapy (UVB) may also help. Our dermatologist can properly inform you about the safe use of these treatments. There are various treatments for the different types of eczema.

Frequently Asked Questions about Eczema

Is eczema contagious?

No, eczema is a non-contagious skin condition. Eczema symptoms cannot be transmitted to others through skin contact, saliva, or other bodily fluids. This applies to all forms of eczema, including atopic eczema, allergic contact dermatitis, and seborrheic eczema. If you have questions about your situation, a dermatologist can provide further explanation and personal advice.

What factors can make eczema worse?

Eczema may temporarily worsen due to triggers such as weather changes, dry air, stress, allergic reactions, or irritating substances in cosmetics and cleaning products. Which factors play a role varies from person to person. A dermatologist can help identify your specific triggers and discuss suitable treatment options.

Does eczema only affect children?

Atopic eczema often begins in childhood, but eczema can develop at any age. Childhood eczema may sometimes improve during puberty, while adult eczema may appear later in life or become chronic. A dermatologist can determine which type of eczema you have and which approach is most suitable.

Can eczema be completely cured?

Eczema is often a chronic skin condition that may flare up from time to time. Symptoms can disappear temporarily but may return later. With the right treatment—such as creams, ointments, or light therapy—the skin can often be kept calm for longer periods. A dermatologist will discuss which treatment options are appropriate for your type of eczema.

What can I do myself if I have eczema?

Eczema-prone skin requires careful daily care. Regularly applying a neutral cream or ointment helps support the skin barrier. Choose skincare products without perfume or irritating substances and avoid excessive scratching or drying agents. If symptoms persist, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or skin therapist for professional advice and a tailored treatment plan.

Can eczema cause scars or permanent skin discoloration?

Many people wonder if eczema leaves marks on the skin. This depends on the severity of the eczema and the individual healing process. In some cases, scars or pigmentation changes may occur, especially with frequent scratching. A dermatologist can advise you on how to minimize the risk of permanent marks.