Signs And Symptoms Of Eczema

Eczema—also called dermatitis—is a general term for a group of skin conditions that share similar symptoms and are often triggered by the same factors. Over 31 million people in the United States, or roughly 1 in 10, experience some form of eczema, including both adults and children.

The condition commonly results in inflammation, intense itchiness, and visible skin changes. Triggers may include medication, temperature changes, and exposure to allergens or irritants. These stimuli can lead the immune system to overreact, even when there is no real threat. This overreaction causes the skin symptoms associated with eczema.

Common Symptoms Of Eczema

Even though eczema covers multiple types of conditions, many share key symptoms. These may include:

Dry skin
A common sign of eczema is rough, scaly skin that can become so dry it cracks or bleeds.

Itchiness
Dryness typically leads to persistent itching. Scratching can worsen the condition, making the skin red, inflamed, and sometimes swollen. Affected areas may feel warm to the touch.

Raised patches or scales
Skin may thicken and develop a leathery texture due to repeated irritation and scratching.

Changes in skin tone
Skin tone changes are common. In lighter skin, eczema may appear red, while in darker skin, it may look gray, purple, or brown. These changes are called hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation.

Not all individuals experience the same symptoms. The severity of eczema and the specific triggers involved can influence which signs appear. Recognizing your own symptoms and what causes flare-ups is crucial in managing the condition.

Symptoms By Type

While general eczema symptoms overlap, each type of eczema has distinct triggers and characteristics.

Atopic Dermatitis

This is the most common form of eczema and is often simply referred to as “eczema.” It mainly causes dry, itchy, inflamed skin that may appear on various parts of the body, particularly the hands, feet, face, and the inner folds of elbows and knees.

Flare-ups may come and go, especially when exposed to specific triggers. Although more prevalent in children, atopic dermatitis can persist into adulthood or even begin later in life.

Contact Dermatitis

This type of eczema develops when the skin reacts to an irritant or allergen. It often appears on the hands, face, neck, or scalp but may also spread across the body.

Common signs include redness, burning, oozing blisters, and sensitivity to sunlight or products like sunscreen. It may also increase the risk of sunburn.
 

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis, also known as seborrheic eczema, is characterized by greasy, yellowish scales and patches of inflamed, itchy skin. It primarily affects areas rich in oil glands, such as the scalp, eyebrows, upper chest, area around the nose and lips, and behind the ears.

In infants, this condition presents as cradle cap—mild scaling on the scalp that usually begins around three months old and resolves on its own within four to six months.

In adolescents and adults, seborrheic dermatitis tends to be chronic or recurrent. Dandruff is considered a milder, non-inflammatory form of this condition. In some cases, it may also affect the eyelids, causing blepharitis with crusting around the eyes.

Dyshidrotic Eczema

Also known as pompholyx, dyshidrotic eczema causes small, itchy, fluid-filled blisters known as vesicles. These typically appear on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.

The blisters often crust over within two to three weeks and are not rash-like in nature. While dyshidrotic eczema is sometimes recognized as a separate condition, it can also occur as a result of atopic or contact dermatitis.

Nummular Eczema

Nummular eczema—also called discoid eczema or nummular dermatitis—is known for its round, coin-shaped plaques that are itchy and raised. These lesions generally range from 1 to 10 centimeters in diameter.

Over time, the center of these lesions may begin to clear, making them resemble ringworm or psoriasis. Nummular eczema often develops on the legs and arms but may also appear on the lower abdomen and buttocks.

Stasis Dermatitis

Stasis dermatitis, also referred to as venous dermatitis, usually occurs in individuals with poor blood circulation in the lower legs. It most commonly affects older adults and may be linked to cardiovascular issues or other underlying conditions.

Symptoms include rashes, plaques, dryness, crusting, and even blisters on the lower legs, ankles, or feet—typically where swelling due to poor circulation is already present. Other signs may involve hyperpigmentation, scaling, and persistent itchiness.

If left untreated, stasis dermatitis can lead to venous ulcers, which are open wounds that heal slowly and are susceptible to infection. In rare cases, stasis dermatitis can also affect the arms.

Asteatotic Eczema

Asteatotic eczema is also known as eczema craquelé or xerotic eczema. It is marked by very dry, itchy skin that becomes scaly and cracked, especially in colder months.

This type is most common in people over 60, though younger individuals can also develop it. It often appears during winter when indoor heating lowers humidity, leading to excessive dryness. Symptoms may improve in warmer, more humid climates.

Neurodermatitis

Neurodermatitis, also known as lichen simplex chronicus, has a psychological component—its onset is often related to stress or emotional strain.

The condition leads to intense itching in localized areas, resulting in dry, thickened, scaly patches. Repeated scratching can worsen the symptoms, causing plaques and a constant urge to scratch.

Common locations include the arms, hands, scalp, neck, face, and genital area. These patches can appear yellow, reddish-brown, or darker depending on the skin tone. It most often affects adults between the ages of 30 and 50.

When To See A Healthcare Provider

Managing eczema can be challenging, but effective treatments are available. If you suspect you have eczema or your current condition is not improving, consult a healthcare provider.

A professional evaluation can confirm the diagnosis and determine if a referral to a specialist—such as a dermatologist or allergist—is needed, depending on suspected triggers.

If you notice signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, or discharge of yellow or white fluid, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly. Untreated infections can spread and may require systemic treatment or hospitalization.

Whether your eczema is mild or severe, prioritizing both your physical and mental well-being and seeking appropriate care is essential to managing the condition.

A Quick Review

Eczema refers to a group of skin conditions that cause dry, itchy, inflamed skin. Common symptoms include cracking, redness, and changes in skin color. These signs can vary based on the type of eczema and the individual's response to triggers.

Without proper care, scratching can cause wounds that may lead to infection. A healthcare provider can guide you in managing symptoms early and preventing complications through tailored treatment plans.