Dermatitis is a fairly common condition, but it is not life-threatening and is not a contagious disease.

However, it can cause discomfort and itching and is often seen in people with allergic predispositions at any age.

The three most common causes of dermatitis are Allergic – Contact – Seborrheic.

Dermatitis in Medicine

• Dermatitis is an inflammatory condition of the skin. There are many causes of dermatitis, and it can occur in various forms. The condition usually presents as an itchy rash on swollen, red skin.

• Inflamed skin may develop blisters, oozing, and the surface may form a crust and peel. For example, allergic dermatitis (eczema) can cause dandruff-like flakes and itchy rashes due to contact with any substance, such as poison ivy, soaps, or nickel-containing jewelry.

• Dermatitis is a common, non-contagious disease but can make you feel uncomfortable and self-conscious. Combining self-care steps with medication can help treat dermatitis.

Symptoms of Dermatitis

The signs and symptoms of dermatitis depend on the type of skin condition:

• Allergic Dermatitis (Eczema): Often begins in childhood, with red, itchy rashes usually appearing in the inner folds of the elbows, behind the knees, and the front of the neck. Scratching may cause oozing and crusting. People with allergic dermatitis often experience periods of improvement followed by recurrence.

• Contact Dermatitis: The skin develops a rash on areas exposed to irritants or allergens, such as poison ivy, soaps, or essential oils. The red rash may feel hot, stinging, or itchy and may form blisters.

• Seborrheic Dermatitis: Causes inflamed patches with scales, red skin, and flaking like dandruff, which can be difficult to treat. This condition usually affects oily areas of the body, such as the face, upper chest, and back. It can be chronic, with periods of flare-ups and remission. In infants, it is known as “cradle cap,” appearing as hardened, scaly patches on the scalp.

You may experience other symptoms not mentioned here. If you have any concerns about your signs or symptoms, consult a doctor.

Causes of Dermatitis

Health conditions, allergies, genetic factors, physical and mental stress, and irritants can all trigger dermatitis.

• Allergic Dermatitis (Eczema): This type may be related to a combination of factors, including dry skin, genetic variations, immune system dysfunction, skin bacteria, and environmental conditions.

• Contact Dermatitis: Caused by direct contact with various irritants or allergens, such as poison ivy, nickel-containing jewelry, cleaning products, perfumes, cosmetics, and even preservatives in many creams and lotions.

• Seborrheic Dermatitis: This may be caused by a type of yeast on oily skin areas. People with seborrheic dermatitis may notice that their condition tends to recur and improve depending on the season.

Treatment of Dermatitis

Dermatitis can be treated in different ways depending on the severity and cause in each person. Lifestyle changes and home remedies are also recommended. Most treatment plans for dermatitis include one or more of the following:

• Applying corticosteroid creams;

• Applying creams or lotions that modulate your immune system (calcineurin inhibitors);

• Controlled exposure to natural or artificial light on the affected skin areas.