How dare no-one explain to me there is MORE THAN ONE type of eczema!?
Last week we scratched the surface of what Eczema is, which parts of the body it affects, age groups, and very little on how to manage during flare ups. We discussed very briefly that moisture is key. If you missed last weeks discussion, please go back and review and leave any questions/comments you might have below. In this post we will dive deeper into the 7 different types of eczema, recognizable hallmark signs/symptoms of Eczema, as will as some tips/tricks for comfort/relief; keep reading to learn more!
What are the 7 different types of eczema?
- Atopic Dermatitis (most common), usually starts in childhood and and is the one type of Eczema that tends to last the longest.
- Nummular Eczema
- Stasis Dermatitis
- Contact Dermatitis
- Neurodermatitis
- Dyshidrotic
- Seborrheic Dermatitis
For the sake of this read, we will focus on the most common type of Eczema "Atopic Dermatitis".
As noted above Atopic Dermatitis usually starts in early childhood, and can last through teen/adult years. It presents itself as a dry, itchy flaky rash that varies in color depending on the shade of your skin. For example: with lighter skin tones the rash may appear a little darker that natural skin color, red/pink, and in darker shades an ashy grey or purple. These rashes can be flat or raised, and can sometimes form vesicles also know as "pus filled bumps" or pustules.
Recognizable hallmark signs of Eczema
- Itchy Rash
- Dry Skin patches
- Scaly Skin
- Thick Leathery skin
- Blisters
Tips/tricks for comfort/relief
- Avoid scratching
- Avoid "irritants" such as perfumes, scents, dyes.
- Keep the skin moisturized; moisturize at least twice daily or as needed
- Limit/avoid hot baths/showers
BONUS TIP
Use a SOFT BRISTLED toothbrush to scratch; yes we know we advised NO SCRATCHING but this idea we thought was GENIUS! especially those of you with younger children who only know to "scratch" irritated skin. Although this level of comfort is "temporary" it is a great way to avoid scratching, worsening the condition which can lead to infection. We learned this idea from a young lady on TikTok, and thought it would be nice to share- "Simplyrosewaffles" is her username; you can check out the video here>>>
IMPORTANT!
Please be sure to ALWAYS use a BRAND NEW toothbrush to avoid introduction of invading microorganisms/bacteria into the skin. DO NOT USE on broken skin, or skin that is cracked. DO NOT USE on skin that is oozing, draining, bleeding.
We are NOT medical providers. This read is for general information/education purposes, and is not intended to cure/treat/prevent any condition. Please consult with your medical provider regarding diagnosis, cure, treatment, and prevention.
Next week we will discuss Nummular Eczema; stay tuned for more.
Real Blew