Types of Eczema

Eczema can be split into many types, the main ones being :

• Atopic Eczema
• Contact Dermatitis
• Gravitational Eczema
• Pompholyx Eczema
• Discoid Eczema
• Asteatotic Eczema
• Seborrhoeic Eczema

Atopic Eczema
The most common eczema is known as Atopic dermatitis. It is believed to be a genetic problem – it often runs in families which also have a history of asthma and hayfever. It causes red rashes with blisters that itch usually on the face, elbows, wrists and behind the knees.

Contact Dermatitis
There are two types of Contact Dermatitis – Irritant Contact Dermatitis and Allergic Contact Dermatitis.
Irritant Contact Dermatitis results from frequent contact with substances which irritate the skin, such as detergents, soap, hair products or bleach.
Allergic Contact Dermatitis is usually seen on an indivicual’s hands and is caused by an immediate or delayed reaction to an allergen – for example nickel or poison ivy.

Gravitational Eczema
Gravitational Eczema (also known as Venous Eczema) occurs in people who suffer from poor circulation and is mainly seen in the lower legs and ankles of people over 50. The affected skin is red and scaly, itchy, and may ooze, crust and crack.

Pompholyx Eczema
Pompholyx Eczema (also known as as dyshidroti eczema or vesicular eczema) is a common type of eczema affecting the hands and sometimes the feet It is characterised by blistering, especially on the palms, sides of finger and soles of the feet.

Discoid Eczema
Discoid Eczema (also known as nummular dermatitis) can affect all age groups, but is mainly seen in middle aged or older men. It is characterised by itchy coin shaped discs of eczema. It can affect all parts of the body but is mainly seen on the lower leg.

Asteatotic Eczema
Asteatotic Eczema (also know as Xerotic eczema) is almost exclusively found in people over 60. IT usually occurs on the legs, where the skin becomes very itchy and red. Its appearance is often likened to crazy paving.

Seborrhoeic Eczema
Seborrhoeic Eczema is type of inflamatory skin rash thought to be caused by overactive sebaceous glands.. It affects the face, scalp and other areas. It usually starts on the scalp as dandruff which progresses to redness and irritation which may spread down onto the face and neck.