The Common Types of dermatitis
By Hanna G.
March 15, 2019
What is dermatitis?
This is a term that is used for inflammation of the skin and can occur in different forms. This chronic skin issue makes your skin irritable with an itchy rash. Atopic dermatitis or eczema contact dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis are some of the popular examples of dermatitis. Although it is non-contagious, dermatitis definitely makes one uncomfortable and can reoccur. To avoid such skin issues, your routine must include moisturizing the skin. Dermatitis can also be due to several health conditions, allergies, genetic and irritants.
What are some of the most common types of dermatitis?
- Atopic dermatitis: A red, itchy rash that commonly develops in children but can occur at any age. While there are several factors that can cause eczema, some of the most usual reasons are severely dry skin, gene variation, dysfunction in your immune system, bacterial infection and pollution.
- Contact dermatitis: This usually occurs as an allergic reaction when your skin comes in contact with certain irritants. Most people see rashes being developed on the skin when they come in contact with poison ivy or cleaning products or even some of the cosmetic products.
- Seborrheic dermatitis: This is a skin condition that usually affects oily areas of the body which causes reddish skin, scaly patches and dandruff. Seborrheic dermatitis is caused by a yeast or fungus that is found on oily skin.
Age, allergies, job and several health conditions like congestive heart failure can contribute to these above-mentioned types of dermatitis. Rashes that are developed due to this skin condition can lead to having open sores that can become infected. Although they might not be considered severe, this skin infection may spread. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water can help keep infection at bay.
Prevention is better than cure
Now that you know what dermatitis is, the most common types of dermatitis and their causes, let's find out more about how we can prevent this skin condition. If you are one of those people who enjoy prolonged baths in hot water, you may want to consider limiting it. Shorter baths in lukewarm water using bath oil might be helpful.
Most dermatologists suggest that soaps can cause your skin to become dry, so opt for mild soaps or cleansers instead. Don't forget the most important step towards having healthy skin - moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! Do so regularly after the bath while your skin is still damp to help lock in that moisture. Also, when you switch between cosmetic products, ensure it's suitable for your skin and do a patch test at a small area before applying it everywhere.
Break the itch-scratch cycle by cold compressing the area with an ice pack or apply aloe vera gel that's been refrigerated to soothe the skin.
If the condition becomes severe, don't forget to consult your dermatologist for the right treatment.