Understanding what eczema is—and what can irritate the skin—is a starting point for managing eczema. Eczema is a term for several types of skin swelling, also called dermatitis. Most types cause dry, itchy skin and rashes. This guide explains the basics for adults with eczema and parents or caregivers of children with atopic dermatitis.
According to MedlinePlus, the National Library of Medicine’s eczema overview, eczema is not contagious. It often lasts a long time, although symptoms may get better or worse over time. Treatment may include medicines, skin creams, light therapy, and good skin care.
Understanding eczema and atopic dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema. It is most common in babies and children, but adults can have it, too. The terms are closely related, but eczema also includes other forms of dermatitis; it does not refer only to atopic dermatitis.
Common places for eczema rashes include the face, the inside of the elbows, behind the knees, and the hands and feet. Scratching can make the skin turn red, swell, and itch even more. That worsening irritation is an important part of understanding how eczema symptoms can build on one another.
The cause of eczema is unknown. MedlinePlus says both genetic and environmental factors likely play a role. People with eczema may also develop hay fever and asthma, but that does not mean everyone with eczema will have those conditions.
Practical considerations for managing eczema
MedlinePlus identifies avoiding certain exposures as a way to prevent some types of eczema. Its guidance focuses on things that irritate the skin, stress, and substances a person is allergic to. These are broad categories, not a single list of restrictions that applies to everyone.
Recognize things that irritate the skin
Certain soaps, fabrics, and lotions can irritate skin. MedlinePlus lists avoiding these irritants among its prevention measures. The examples do not mean that every soap, fabric, or lotion causes eczema, or that one product choice is appropriate for all people.
Distinguish allergens from everyday exposures
The source also lists avoiding things a person is allergic to, such as food, pollen, and animals. The key distinction is an actual allergy: the overview does not recommend that everyone with eczema avoid those foods or exposures. Questions about possible allergies are a reason to speak with a health care provider rather than assume a particular exposure is responsible.
Understand the role of stress
Stress is another factor MedlinePlus lists among things to avoid to help prevent some types of eczema. The overview does not provide a specific stress-management program or suggest that stress alone explains eczema.
Treatment options and professional guidance
Eczema treatment may include medicines, skin creams, light therapy, and good skin care. These are categories of care, not a personalized treatment plan. The overview does not identify a single treatment that everyone should use or give instructions for choosing medicines.
A health care provider can address questions about symptoms, possible irritants or allergies, and treatment choices. MedlinePlus advises contacting a provider with questions about your health and emphasizes that its information is not a substitute for professional medical care or advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is eczema contagious?
No. Eczema is not contagious. You cannot catch it from another person.
Will a child outgrow atopic dermatitis?
It may improve or go away as a child grows older. However, the skin may remain dry and become irritated easily. Adults can also have atopic dermatitis.
What treatments may be used for eczema?
MedlinePlus lists medicines, skin creams, light therapy, and good skin care as possible treatments. Discuss treatment questions with a health care provider rather than treating this general overview as an individual care plan.
