PG
1
1
Moderate severity
· Dermatology
Eczema
Atopic dermatitis · Itchy, dry, inflamed skin
Skin barrier is leaky, letting irritants in and water out. Cycles of itch-scratch-flare are common; aggressive moisturizing is the foundation.
At a glance
- Prevalence
- 1 in 5 children
- Typical age
- Childhood onset most common
- Outlook
- Manageable, flares
- System
- Skin
Reviewed by a verified Dermatology doctor
What causes it
Causes
- Genetic filaggrin defect
- Allergens (dust mite, pollen, food)
- Soaps and harsh detergents
- Heat, sweat, stress
- Dry climate or hot showers
How it feels
Symptoms & effects
- Dry, scaly, intensely itchy patches
- Common on elbow / knee creases
- Weepy when scratched
- Skin thickening (lichenification)
- Sleep loss from itch
How it’s treated
Treatment & cure
- Liberal emollient 2–3×/day
- Topical steroids for flares
- Tacrolimus / pimecrolimus
- Dupilumab for severe cases
- Treat secondary infection
Staying ahead
Prevention
- Identify and avoid triggers
- Lukewarm showers under 10 mins
- Cotton, breathable clothing
- Humidify dry rooms
Do’s
- Moisturize within 3 min of bathing
- Use fragrance-free emollients
- Pat dry, don't rub
- Keep nails short
Don’ts
- Bathe in hot water
- Use perfumed soaps
- Stop steroids abruptly at 80% clear
- Scratch — slap instead to relieve
See a doctor immediately if
Symptoms are sudden or severe, getting worse despite home care, or interfering with sleep, work or daily life. Don’t self-diagnose from the internet — book a verified clinician below.
Top specialists
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VM
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Disclaimer ·
This article is educational and reviewed by clinicians, but it cannot replace an in-person assessment.
Medication doses, prevention advice and treatment choices vary by person. Always confirm with a doctor before acting on anything here.