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Eczema
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Skin Hair Nails

Eczema

Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is a non-contagious, often long-lasting condition characterized by dry, itchy skin and rashes.

Overview

Eczema is a term for several different types of skin swelling. Eczema is also called dermatitis. Most types cause dry, itchy skin and rashes on the face, inside the elbows and behind the knees, and on the hands and feet. Scratching the skin can cause it to turn red, and to swell and itch even more.

Eczema is not contagious. The cause of eczema is unknown. It is likely caused by both genetic and environmental factors. Eczema may get better or worse over time, but it is often a long-lasting disease. People who have it may also develop hay fever and asthma.

Types and Management

The most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis. It is most common in babies and children, but adults can have it too. As children who have atopic dermatitis grow older, this problem may get better or go away. But sometimes the skin may stay dry and get irritated easily.

Treatments may include medicines, skin creams, light therapy, and good skin care. You can prevent some types of eczema by avoiding:

  • Things that irritate your skin, such as certain soaps, fabrics, and lotions
  • Stress
  • Things you are allergic to, such as food, pollen, and animals

Frequently Asked Questions

Use lukewarm water for bathing, keep showers short (5–10 minutes), and apply a fragrance‑free moisturizer within 3 minutes of drying off. Pat the skin dry, don’t rub, and use soft cotton clothing. Avoid harsh soaps and detergents, and keep your home dust‑free.
Eczema is typically a chronic condition; it can improve with age but rarely disappears completely. Long‑term management includes regular moisturization, trigger avoidance, topical corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors for flare‑ups, and, for severe cases, phototherapy or systemic medications. Regular follow‑up with a dermatologist helps adjust treatment as needed.===
If you notice large areas of skin that are blistered, weeping, or have open sores that are not healing, or if the itching is so intense that it interferes with sleep or daily activities, you should see a clinician. Also seek care if you develop signs of infection such as increased redness, warmth, pus, or a fever.
Common culprits include dairy, eggs, nuts, soy, wheat, and certain fruits or vegetables. Keep a food diary for 2–4 weeks, noting what you eat and any changes in skin. If you suspect a food trigger, consider an elimination diet under a dietitian’s guidance, reintroducing foods one at a time while monitoring skin response.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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