Eczema, also known as dermatitis, it is a skin problem which causes dry, itchy, scaly, red skin. Eczema is not contagious. It can affect infants, children, and adults and seems more common in certain families. The most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis. The term atopic refers to a collection of conditions that involve the immune system, including atopic Dermatitis, asthma, and hay fever. The word dermatitis refers to inflammation of the skin. There are a few different types of eczema. The type of eczema you have can determine what type of rash you develop and where on your body it occurs.

The definitive cause of eczema is still unknown. However, researchers think that it’s triggered by an overactive immune system. Eczema tends to flare when your skin is exposed to external irritants, which cause your immune system to overreact. We’ve listed common triggers for flare-ups below. Some environmental factors may also bring out the symptoms of eczema. These include: ∙Irritants: These include soaps, detergents, shampoos, disinfectants, juices from fresh fruits, meats, and vegetables. ∙Allergens: Dust mites, pets, pollens, and mold can all lead to eczema. This is known as allergic eczema. ∙Microbes: These include bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, viruses, and certain fungi. ∙Hot and cold temperatures: Very hot and very cold weather, high and low humidity, and perspiration from exercise can bring out eczema. ∙Foods: Dairy products, eggs, nuts and seeds, soy products, and wheat can cause eczema flares. ∙Stress: This is not a direct cause of eczema, but it can make the symptoms worse. ∙Hormones: Females may experience increased eczema symptoms when their hormone levels are changing, such as during pregnancy and at certain points in the menstrual cycle.