What is the difference between Eczema and Dermatitis
When you are sensitive, find the right skincare products or a clinic. It can be not easy. Before you go, knowing what skin conditions are affecting you is essential. Eczema and dermatitis can cause red, itchy skin patches.
How can you tell if it’s eczema or dermatitis you have?
These two terms can be used interchangeably. However, understanding your skin irritation’s specific needs will help you heal. Our Skin Health Specialists will show you how.
Dermatitis is a general term; Eczema, however, is a specific condition
Do you know that a croissant, a buttery, flaky pastry, is delicious? But not all pastries can be called croissants. The same is true for eczema, which is a form of dermatitis. However, not all dermatitis is eczema.
We’ll first explain what eczema means, then explore the other common types of dermatitis.
Eczema, AKA Atopic Dermatitis
Eczema is a specific type, sometimes called “atopic dermatitis.” Eczema, also known as “atopic” dermatitis, is a type of eczema. [3] It is believed that an overactive immune response can cause eczema.
If you have severe eczema, you may experience the following symptoms:
Red, itchy skin
Rashs are usually found on the elbows or knees
Skin patches with dry, scaly patches
Clear fluid oozes out of patches
There is no way to know for sure what causes or triggers eczema. Some research has shown that some people are genetically predisposed to severe eczema, while allergies or environmental factors may trigger others.
This skin condition can occur anywhere on your body. For example, you may have eczema in the legs, arms, or face [1]. Finding the proper treatment to control your symptoms and avoiding triggers is essential for managing and preventing flare-ups.
Other Dermatitis Types
You could have a different dermatitis if you don’t recognize the symptoms above. The term dermatitis is used to describe any skin inflammation. However, some other types are not as severe, don’t have the same symptoms, and have different causes.
Other types of dermatitis can include:
Allergic Contact Dermatitis This type of dermatitis occurs when your skin is irritated and inflamed by something, like poison ivy or a food allergen. [7] You may experience a rash, blisters, or dry skin that itches or burns.
Seborrheic Dermatitis If you notice flaky, scaly skin patches or rashes on oily skin, it could be a sign of seborrheic skin dermatitis.
Stasis Dermatitis- This skin condition affects mainly your legs and lower body. [9] It is usually caused by poor circulation or reduced blood flow in your lower body. This dermatitis is generally caused by poor circulation or decreased blood flow to your lower body.
What to Do If You Have Eczema and Dermatitis
You can find relief after you have identified your skin condition and taken the appropriate steps to treat it. Depending on whether you suffer from eczema, dermatitis, or another skin condition, you may need to adapt your treatment and expectations.
A doctor, dermatologist, or Skin Health expert is a great place to start. These professionals can confirm the issue and help create a plan for treatment or management.
Your treatment plan for eczema may include long-term solutions such as:
Manage your chronic symptoms
What triggers your eczema?
Find relief and control your flare-ups with these treatments
Working with a dermatologist or skin specialist to treat your eczema
However, Some types of dermatitis may be treated in a shorter period. You may also want to try:
Find out what triggered your reaction and discontinue using the product if you can.
Consult a dermatologist or doctor to eliminate and treat your symptoms
Discover if you have an underlying problem that could be causing your dermatitis