What is Eczema? Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What is Eczema?

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a common chronic skin condition that causes inflammation, itchiness, and dryness. It can affect people of all ages, though it’s especially prevalent in children. While not contagious, eczema can be persistent, often flaring up in cycles, and requires ongoing management to control symptoms and avoid discomfort.

What Are the Symptoms of Eczema?

Eczema symptoms can vary in severity and presentation, but they commonly include

• Dry skin & Itchy skin (often severe and worse at night)
• Skin rash
• Red or inflamed patches
• Small, raised bumps that may leak fluid and crust over
• Thickened, leathery skin due to chronic scratching
• Flaky, scaly, or crusty patches
• Swelling from inflammation

These symptoms can appear anywhere on the body, though they tend to show up more frequently on the hands, neck, elbows, ankles, knees, feet, face (especially the cheeks), lips, and around the ears.

The Causes

The skin condition may result from a complex interaction between genetic, immune, and environmental factors. These underlying causes affect the skin’s ability to protect itself and react appropriately to stimuli in the environment.

1. Immune System
   

   In individuals with eczema, the immune system tends to overreact to irritants and allergens—substances that are harmless to most people. This hyper-reactivity leads to inflammation, which manifests as redness, itching, and rashes. The immune system treats these external elements as threats, initiating an inflammatory response that damages the skin barrier and causes flare-ups.
   
   

2. Genetic

   Family history plays a significant role in the development of eczema. If one or both parents have eczema, asthma, hay fever, or allergies, there is a higher likelihood their children will develop eczema.
   
   

3. Environmental Irritants

   Everyday elements in your surroundings can trigger or worsen eczema symptoms. Common irritants include smoke, pollution, harsh soaps and detergents, synthetic fabrics like polyester, and even skincare products containing alcohol or artificial fragrance. Weather also plays a role—low humidity can dry out the skin, while heat and high humidity can lead to sweating, which may aggravate itching and inflammation.
   
   

4. Emotional Stress

   Mental health can have a direct impact on skin health. Stress, anxiety, and depression are known to trigger or intensify eczema symptoms. Emotional distress can cause hormonal fluctuations and immune responses that increase inflammation in the skin. For many people, managing stress levels is an important part of controlling eczema.
   
   

The Common Treatments

While there is no permanent cure for eczema, effective management can significantly reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. The foundation of eczema care lies in maintaining skin hydration and minimizing exposure to triggers.

1. Daily Skincare
   

   Cleansing the skin gently using mild cleansers can prevent further irritation. Moisturizing multiple times a day—especially after bathing—helps lock in hydration and reinforce the skin’s natural barrier. For example, moisturising lotion, cream and body oil.
   
   

2. Over-the-Counter Options

   For mild symptoms, products like hydrocortisone cream can relieve inflammation and itching. It’s important to follow usage instructions carefully, as overuse of steroid creams may lead to thinning of the skin.
   
   For your little ones, consult any healthcare providers or consider product options such as California Baby Eczema Cream, which contains soothing ingredients that help to relieve eczema flare-up and hydrate irritated skin. It is free of any potential allergens such as gluten, soy, dairy or nuts (except for coconut) and suitable for all ages. Visit BB King Kong for more info!
   
   
   

3. When to Seek Medical Advice

   For moderate to severe eczema, a healthcare provider may prescribe stronger topical corticosteroids, oral medication for itch relief, antibiotics for infections, or immunosuppressants in severe cases. Identifying and managing underlying allergies may also be part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
   
   

Eczema is a complex but manageable skin condition that affects millions worldwide. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and triggers is key to effective management. With proper skincare, trigger avoidance, and medical support, most people with eczema can keep flare-ups under control and enjoy healthier skin.

If you're struggling with symptoms or are unsure about your triggers, don't hesitate to consult a dermatologist for personalized advice and treatment.

References

National Eczema Association (2025) What is eczema? Available at: https://nationaleczema.org/eczema/ (Accessed: 26 March, 2025).