How to Handle an Eczema Flare Up
Identify triggers for atopic dermatitis., Watch for triggers of contact dermatitis., Learn your risk for dyshidrotic eczema.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Identify triggers for atopic dermatitis.
Atopic dermatitis is essentially a chronic allergic reaction.
It is most common in children and babies.
However, an adult can have this type of eczema as well.Flare-ups of this type of eczema can be caused by irritants, allergens, stress, fabrics, and dry skin, to name just a few.If you have food allergies, you may be more likely to experience eczema flare-ups.Atopic dermatitis is often passed down from one generation to the next, and people who are prone to this type of eczema are also likely to develop hay fever or asthma.This type of eczema in infants often starts on the child's head area, either the cheeks or the scalp, though it can spread to other areas.
It can exhibit as small, red bumps that itch or as a scaly rash.
When it spreads, it often shows up in the bend of the elbow or knee, though it can be all over the body, especially in babies.
It is not contagious. -
Step 2: Watch for triggers of contact dermatitis.
Contact dermatitis is also an allergic reaction, but it's not chronic like atopic dermatitis.
Contact dermatitis only occurs when your skin comes into contact with a particular irritant.The most common irritants are certain types of metals, poison ivy, soaps, and even perfumes or make-up.
This rash is not contagious, either.Contact dermatitis also shows up as small, red bumps that itch.
They may also leak fluid, and turn into scaly, scabbed skin., This type of eczema is less common than atopic dermatitis.
It usually only shows up on your hands and feet.Flare-ups for this type of eczema can be caused or exacerbated by stress, allergies, too much time in water, dry skin, and contact with certain metals, such as nickel.This type of eczema begins as a scattering of tiny blisters that itch.
Once they burst, the skin takes on a scaly look.Women are twice as likely to develop dyshidrotic eczema than men.People with chronic dyshidrotic eczema are less likely to have flare-ups after middle age. -
Step 3: Learn your risk for dyshidrotic eczema.
Detailed Guide
Atopic dermatitis is essentially a chronic allergic reaction.
It is most common in children and babies.
However, an adult can have this type of eczema as well.Flare-ups of this type of eczema can be caused by irritants, allergens, stress, fabrics, and dry skin, to name just a few.If you have food allergies, you may be more likely to experience eczema flare-ups.Atopic dermatitis is often passed down from one generation to the next, and people who are prone to this type of eczema are also likely to develop hay fever or asthma.This type of eczema in infants often starts on the child's head area, either the cheeks or the scalp, though it can spread to other areas.
It can exhibit as small, red bumps that itch or as a scaly rash.
When it spreads, it often shows up in the bend of the elbow or knee, though it can be all over the body, especially in babies.
It is not contagious.
Contact dermatitis is also an allergic reaction, but it's not chronic like atopic dermatitis.
Contact dermatitis only occurs when your skin comes into contact with a particular irritant.The most common irritants are certain types of metals, poison ivy, soaps, and even perfumes or make-up.
This rash is not contagious, either.Contact dermatitis also shows up as small, red bumps that itch.
They may also leak fluid, and turn into scaly, scabbed skin., This type of eczema is less common than atopic dermatitis.
It usually only shows up on your hands and feet.Flare-ups for this type of eczema can be caused or exacerbated by stress, allergies, too much time in water, dry skin, and contact with certain metals, such as nickel.This type of eczema begins as a scattering of tiny blisters that itch.
Once they burst, the skin takes on a scaly look.Women are twice as likely to develop dyshidrotic eczema than men.People with chronic dyshidrotic eczema are less likely to have flare-ups after middle age.
About the Author
Sara Sanchez
A seasoned expert in lifestyle and practical guides, Sara Sanchez combines 2 years of experience with a passion for teaching. Sara's guides are known for their clarity and practical value.
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