Eczema & Dermatitis
Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)
Eczema; atopic eczema
Very common, especially in children
No — you cannot catch it or spread it
Not curable, but very manageable long-term
What Is It?
Atopic dermatitis is a common, long-term condition that makes skin dry, itchy, red, and inflamed. It tends to flare and settle over time and often runs in families along with asthma and hay fever. It commonly affects the creases of the elbows and knees, the hands, face, and neck.
Signs & Symptoms
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Dry, itchy, red or inflamed skin
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Rough, scaly, or thickened patches from scratching
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Common in elbow and knee creases, hands, face, neck
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Oozing or crusting during severe flares
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Itch that is often worse at night
Why Does It Happen?
It results from a combination of a weak skin barrier (which lets moisture out and irritants in) and an overactive immune response. Genetics play a large role. Flares are triggered by dryness, soaps, heat, sweat, stress, allergens, and infections. It is NOT contagious and NOT caused by poor hygiene.
Treatment Options
The foundation is daily moisturizing and gentle skin care, with anti-inflammatory treatments for flares. Newer targeted options exist for moderate-to-severe disease.
MOISTURIZERS
Frequent, thick, fragrance-free emollients — the cornerstone of control.
TOPICAL STEROIDS
Used on flares to calm redness and itch.
NON-STEROID CREAMS
Calcineurin inhibitors or newer creams for sensitive areas or long-term use.
SYSTEMIC / BIOLOGICS
Dupilumab or other options for moderate-to-severe eczema.
Tips for Managing It at Home
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Moisturize at least twice daily, especially right after bathing
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Use lukewarm water and gentle, fragrance-free cleansers
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Identify and limit your personal triggers
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Keep nails short and avoid scratching; treat the itch early
When to Call Your Provider
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Skin becomes very painful, weepy, crusted, or infected
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Widespread flare not responding to your usual treatment
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Fever or blistering with the rash (possible infection)
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Eczema severely affecting sleep or daily life
Sources & further reading
The information in this handout is based on general dermatology guidance from the reputable organizations below. These links are provided for patients who wish to read more from trusted sources.
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Atopic Dermatitis: Overview. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/eczema/types/atopic-dermatitis
Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA). Eczema. https://dermatology.ca/public-patients/diseases-conditions/skin-conditions/eczema/
DermNet. Atopic Dermatitis. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/atopic-dermatitis
MSD/Merck Manual. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema). https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic-disorders/dermatitis/atopic-dermatitis-eczema
This handout is for general education and does not replace advice from your own provider. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions.
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