Dermatitis

What is Dermatitis?

Dermatitis is a general term for inflammation of the skin, causing redness, irritation, and sometimes blisters or scaling. There are several types, including atopic, contact, seborrheic, and nummular dermatitis.

Causes

1. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

• Genetic tendency → family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies.
• Immune system hypersensitivity.
• Triggers: stress, weather changes, irritants, allergens.

2. Contact Dermatitis

• Irritant contact dermatitis → soaps, detergents, chemicals.
• Allergic contact dermatitis → nickel, fragrances, plants (poison ivy).

3. Seborrheic Dermatitis

• Overgrowth of Malassezia yeast on the skin.
• Hormonal changes and oily skin.
• Common on scalp, face, and chest.

4. Other Triggers

• Stress, heat, sweat, friction.
• Dry skin → worsens inflammation.
• Certain medications or systemic conditions.

Symptoms / Appearance

• Red, inflamed, itchy skin.
• Dry, flaky, or scaly patches.
• Blisters or oozing in severe cases.
• Thickened skin (lichenification) from chronic scratching.
• Commonly affected areas: hands, face, scalp, neck, elbows, knees.

Treatments

At-Home / Self-Care

• Avoid triggers (soaps, detergents, allergens).
• Keep skin moisturised with emollients.
• Take lukewarm showers; avoid hot water.
• Use gentle, fragrance-free skincare.
• Manage stress.

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Medical Treatments

• Topical corticosteroids → reduce inflammation and redness.
• Calcineurin inhibitors (tacrolimus, pimecrolimus) → for sensitive areas.
• Antihistamines → relieve itching.
• Antifungal creams → for seborrheic dermatitis.
• Oral medications (rarely) → systemic steroids or immunosuppressants for severe cases.
• Phototherapy → UV light therapy for chronic dermatitis.

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Prevention

• Identify and avoid triggers (allergens, irritants).
• Keep skin hydrated and protected.
• Wear soft, breathable fabrics.
• Reduce scratching and friction.
• Use sunscreen to protect exposed areas.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle to support immune function.