Eczema and dermatitis are common inflammatory skin conditions that can cause dryness, redness, itch, and irritation. They may affect people of all ages and can vary in severity, duration, and pattern. Some forms are short-lived, while others tend to recur over time.
At Auria Dermatology Clinic, we assess and manage different types of eczema and dermatitis, including atopic eczema, contact dermatitis, and other inflammatory skin reactions. Care is guided by clinical assessment to identify contributing factors and determine appropriate management.
Atopic eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition associated with an impaired skin barrier function and an underlying genetic immune sensitivity. It commonly begins in childhood but may persist into adulthood or develop later in life. Symptoms often fluctuate, with periods of remission and flare-ups.
Atopic eczema frequently affects the flexural areas such as the elbows, knees, neck and wrists. The skin may appear dry, inflamed, or thickened, especially with repeated scratching. Persistent itch is common and may disrupt sleep or daily activities.
The condition is linked to genetic factors affecting the skin barrier and is more common in individuals with a personal or family history of eczema, asthma, or allergic rhinitis. Environmental triggers such as heat, sweat, stress, and irritants may worsen symptoms.
Management focuses on restoring the skin barrier and controlling inflammation. Options may include:
Nummular eczema is characterised by well-defined, coin-shaped patches of inflamed skin. It is more commonly seen in adults and may resemble fungal infections, which is why medical assessment is often helpful.
Affected areas usually appear as round or oval patches that may be red, scaly, or oozing. These patches commonly occur on the limbs and may be itchy or tender. The appearance and persistence of lesions often prompt concern.
Dry skin, environmental factors, and skin barrier dysfunction may contribute. The condition may also be associated with sensitive skin or a history of eczema.
Treatment is aimed at reducing inflammation and improving skin hydration, with the same key principles as in the treatment of atopic eczema. Treatment of secondary infection if present is also useful, with the use of astringent solutions to help dry weepy oozy lesions.
Contact dermatitis develops when the skin reacts to substances it comes into contact with. This may be due to direct irritation that results in a cumulative insult or an allergic immune response following sensitisation. The reaction typically occurs at the site of exposure.
Symptoms may include redness, itch, swelling, dryness, or blistering. With repeated exposure, the skin may become thickened or cracked. Identifying the trigger is often a key concern.
Common triggers include preservatives, fragrances, soaps, hair dye, detergents, metals such as nickel and cobalt, cosmetics, rubber, and even occupational exposures. Individuals with underlying eczema or sensitive skin may be more susceptible.
Management focuses on reducing inflammation and avoiding triggers and may include:
Hand eczema is a common form of dermatitis affecting the hands and fingers. It may occur on its own or alongside contact dermatitis or atopic eczema. Repeated exposure to water, irritants, or friction often contributes to persistence.
The skin on the hands may become dry, red, scaly, or cracked. Fissures can be painful and may interfere with daily tasks or work-related activities. Symptoms often recur despite temporary improvement.
Frequent handwashing, exposure to detergents or chemicals, and occupational factors increase risk. Individuals with a history of eczema or sensitive skin are more prone.
Management aims to protect the skin barrier and control inflammation and may include:
Seborrhoeic dermatitis can affect areas rich in oil glands, such as the face, eyebrows, sides of the nose, ears, and chest. It is a chronic inflammatory condition associated with skin sensitivity and yeast overgrowth.
Affected skin may appear red with fine scaling or flaking. Symptoms can fluctuate and may be more noticeable during periods of stress or fatigue.
The condition is linked to skin sensitivity and the presence of naturally occurring yeast. Environmental factors, stress, and individual susceptibility influence symptom severity.
Treatment is directed at reducing inflammation and scaling and may include:
You may consider seeing a dermatologist if you experience:
A consultation with Dr Laura Hui allows for accurate diagnosis and discussion of suitable management options.
You may consider seeing a dermatologist if you experience:
A consultation with Dr Laura Hui allows for accurate diagnosis and discussion of suitable management options.
Eczema is a type of dermatitis. Dermatitis refers broadly to skin inflammation, while eczema usually describes specific patterns such as atopic or nummular eczema.
Eczema is often a long-term condition, but symptoms can usually be managed with appropriate treatment and skincare.
Eczema may affect different areas over time, especially during flare-ups, but the pattern varies between individuals.
The itch–scratch cycle describes how itching and scratching can repeatedly worsen skin inflammation. When the skin itches, scratching can damage the skin barrier, leading to increased dryness and irritation. This damage triggers more inflammation, which in turn causes more itching. Breaking this cycle is an important part of managing eczema and dermatitis.
Care at Auria Dermatology Clinic is consultation-based and centred on understanding each patient’s skin condition. Management plans are tailored to individual needs, lifestyle factors, and medical considerations.
