Eczema 101: What is it and what does it look like?

What is eczema?

Eczema is a non-contagious skin condition that causes red and inflamed skin that can itch and bleed if scratched. Eczema causes include a variety of factors, including genetics, an overreactive immune system, environmental conditions and harsh chemicals,¹and it is often associated with a compromised skin barrier³ that allows moisture to evaporate from the skin and leaves skin vulnerable to irritants. In addition to these causes of eczema, specific triggers can cause eczema flare-ups as well. Among the most common are rough fabrics like wool, extreme hot and cold, soaps and detergents, animal dander and even respiratory infections or colds.⁴ Avoiding these triggers and knowing how to treat the signs of eczema by keeping skin hydrated and relieving the itch are key for helping to minimize and improve outbreaks.⁵

What does eczema look like?

If you’re not sure if you have eczema symptoms or signs of another skin condition, you may have looked for eczema pictures on the internet. It’s important to keep in mind that signs of eczema can range from mild to severe. Mild eczema can appear as dry, flaky skin, while more severe eczema symptoms can include extreme redness and irritation along with cracking and oozing. Persistent itching is another sign of eczema.⁶ The ideal way to be sure if you’re experiencing eczema is to see a dermatologist who can properly diagnose the cause of your skin symptoms.

Types of eczema

Eczema is actually a group of skin conditions that cause redness, itching and inflammation of the skin. In addition to the most common form of eczema (atopic dermatitis), the National Eczema Association explains there are several other forms.¹

Contact dermatitis: Unlike atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis results when the skin comes in contact with a specific irritant and results in redness, itching and burning. Common causes of contact dermatitis include chemicals, detergents, fumes, cigarette smoke, paints, bleach, wool, skincare products that contain alcohol, soaps, fragrances and allergens such as pollen or animal dander.¹

Seborrheic dermatitis: Common in areas with a high concentration of oil glands (such as the upper back, nose and scalp), this type of eczema is not caused by allergic reaction and it is believed microorganisms such as yeast play a role. Seborrheic dermatitis is the cause of cradle cap in babies and dandruff in adults; symptoms can range from dry flakes to greasy scales and redness.⁷

Dyshidrotic eczema: Small, itchy blisters that appear on the edges of the fingers, toes, palms and soles of the feet are likely dyshidrotic eczema, which can be accompanied by flaking, cracking and pain as well. Stress and allergies are common triggers, and this type of eczema is twice as common in women than men.⁸

Nummular eczema: This eczema can occur at any age, but its itchy, coin-shaped spots look different than other types. It is believed these eczema symptoms are caused by insect bites or dry, winter skin.⁹

Stasis dermatitis: Also called gravitational dermatitis and venous eczema, this skin condition is associated with circulation problems that lead to swelling and fluid accumulation in the lower legs. In addition to fluid leaking out of the veins into the skin, this type of eczema also causes redness, itching, scaling and pain.¹⁰