Types of Dermatitis
Dermatitis an inflammation of the skin. It usually looks like red, swollen, and itchy skin. It can be caused by many factors and has many forms. It is not life-threatening, nor is it contagious. It can, however, be uncomfortable and painful. Dermatitis may clear up on its own quickly or made need medical attention.
Allergic contact dermatitis creates a red itchy rash and bumps. Sometimes there are even blisters. There are a number of things that may cause contact dermatitis, and some of those allergens may include cosmetics, perfume, hair dyes, weeds, metals, jewelry, and rubber. Now if you know what the allergen is, you can avoid it and your contact dermatitis will resolve itself. You can also avoid future contact in order to avoid another skin flare-up. Unfortunately, without knowing what the allergen is makes it difficult to avoid dermatitis.
Allergic contact dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is called eczema. It is a chronic condition, meaning that it flares up over and over. People suffering from atopic dermatitis may have periods of clear skin and periods of flare-ups, or they may have constant dermatitis. Often, people with eczema have it on the backs of their knees, front of their necks, in the folds of the elbows; these places are all areas where there are folds of skin. The terrible thing about eczema is that it is extremely itchy. There are some things that can be done. Avoid soaps and other irritants. Apply creams like Aquaphor after bathing. Use laundry detergent that is gentle. I say these things because I have a son with eczema. He has had a very severe case of it. We have him wear all cotton clothing, only use Dreft or All detergent, and use Aveno oatmeal wash for his baths. Every evening we lather him in Aquaphor. This helps keep the moisture in his skin. Unfortunately, we do not know to this day what the cause of the eczema is.
Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)
Irritant contact dermatitis is a result of the skin touching an irritant. This type of dermatitis makes red, dry itchy patches which look like a burn. It usually affects the areas of the fingers, hands, and face. Some irritating substances include detergents, skin products, and soap. If you can stay away from the irritant, the rash will probably clear up within two to three weeks.
Irrittant Contact Dermatitis
Neurodermatitis, or lichen simplex chronicus, is caused by repeated scratching. This repeated scratching leads to thickened brownish skin. The patches have become like leather. The areas most affected tend to be the neck, scalp, upper forearm, wrist, and ankle. Unfortunately, once treatment begins, it takes at least weeks and maybe months for the skin to get back to normal. This treatment may include prescription corticosteroid creams. It also is necessary to eliminate the contributing factors of the itchiness.
Neurodermatitis
Perioral dermatitis typically is found around the mouth, nose, cheeks, and eyes. Small red bumps, bumps filled with pus, and mild peeling may be present. Although doctors are unsure of the cause of perioral dermatitis, it may be the result of a reaction to makeup, moisturizers, or dental products that contain fluoride. Treatment of perioral dermatitis may include anti-acne medicine. Also your doctor may advise you to stop using corticosteroid creams, skin products and cosmetics to see if that helps it to clear up.
Perioral Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis is often found on the oily areas of the body, including the upper chest, back, and face. It also can be on the scalp as dandruff. For infants, seborrheic dermatitis is known as cradle cap. It looks like greasy, itchy, scaly, and red skin. In the case of infants, it looks like crusty yellow patches on the scalp. Suggested treatments include over the counter medicated shampoos, hydrocortisone cream, and washing the area frequently.
Seborrheic dermatitis
Stasis dermatitis appears as skin of the ankles and shins becoming discolored, thick and itchy. The cause of it is when varicose veins or other circulatory issues cause fluids to build up in the lower legs. When this occurs, the swelling produces pressure under the skin and keeps enough blood and oxygen from reaching the skin. The treatment of this condition has to do with correcting the condition that makes the fluid accumulate in the legs. When there are varicose veins, vein sclerosis may be recommended.
Stasis Dermatitis
For any of these skin issues, it is important to see a dermatologist. In the case of some of the itchier rashes, when the skin is open due to repeated scratching, infection can occur. If you are suffering from any form of dermatitis, please see a dermatologist so they can help clear up your skin and make you more comfortable.
