FAST ANSWER
There are several types of eczema, including atopic eczema, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, nummular eczema, and more. Each type has different symptoms and triggers, but all involve a weakened skin barrier and inflammation.
What are the 7 main types of eczema?
The main types of eczema include atopic eczema, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, nummular eczema, flexural eczema, and infant eczema.
Eczema is not a single condition.
It is a group of related skin conditions that share similar symptoms but can appear in different ways depending on the type.
Understanding which type of eczema you have helps you choose the right treatment and avoid the triggers that make it worse.
If you would like a complete overview of eczema, including causes, symptoms, and treatment, see our complete eczema guide.
What is the most common type of eczema?
Atopic eczema is the most common type of eczema. It is often linked to genetics, dry skin, allergies, and a weakened skin barrier.
What Are the Different Types of Eczema?
There are several recognised types of eczema.
Each one has slightly different characteristics, but all involve irritation, inflammation, and a compromised skin barrier.
Atopic Eczema
Atopic eczema is the most common form.
It is often linked to genetics and usually appears in childhood, although it can continue into adulthood.
Common symptoms include:
• Dry, itchy skin
• Red or inflamed patches
• Flare-ups that come and go
Contact Dermatitis
This type occurs when the skin reacts to something it has come into contact with.
There are two types:
• Irritant contact dermatitis (caused by harsh substances)
• Allergic contact dermatitis (caused by allergens)
Common triggers include soaps, detergents, and fragrances.
Which type of eczema causes blisters?
Dyshidrotic eczema commonly causes small, itchy, fluid-filled blisters on the hands and feet.
Dyshidrotic eczema mainly affects the hands and feet.
Symptoms include:
• Small, fluid-filled blisters
• Intense itching
• Cracking as the skin heals
This type is often linked to stress, sweating, or irritation.
Which type of eczema affects the scalp?
Seborrheic dermatitis is one of the most common types of eczema affecting the scalp. It often causes flaky skin, redness, irritation, and dandruff-like symptoms.
This type commonly affects oily areas of the body such as the scalp and face. Symptoms include flaky or scaly skin, redness, and greasy patches. It is often associated with dandruff, but when it leads to persistent inflammation and a damaged barrier on the head, it is often managed as Eczema on the Scalp: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment.
Symptoms include:
• Flaky or scaly skin
• Redness
• Greasy patches
It is often associated with dandruff on the scalp.
Nummular Eczema
Nummular eczema appears as round, coin-shaped patches on the skin.
Symptoms include:
• Itchy, circular lesions
• Dry or scaly patches
• Oozing in severe cases
Flexural Eczema
This type affects skin folds, such as:
• Elbows
• Knees
• Neck
These areas are more sensitive due to friction and moisture. It is also common for irritation to develop in the folds around the ears; learning how to manage eczema behind the ears can provide much-needed relief when symptoms affect these delicate spots.
Infant Eczema
Eczema in babies often appears on:
• Cheeks
• Scalp
• Arms and legs
It can cause redness, dryness, and irritation.
Can adults get eczema?
Yes. Although eczema often begins in childhood, many adults also develop eczema later in life.
Why Identifying the Type Matters
Each type of eczema may respond differently to treatment.
Understanding your type helps you:
• Choose the right skincare
• Avoid specific triggers
• Manage symptoms more effectively
Common Features Across All Types
Although types vary, most eczema shares:
• A weakened skin barrier
• Increased sensitivity
• Dryness and inflammation
This is why treatment often focuses on barrier repair.
Atopic eczema vs contact dermatitis: what’s the difference?
Atopic eczema is usually linked to genetics and skin barrier dysfunction, while contact dermatitis is triggered by direct exposure to irritants or allergens.
How do you manage different types of eczema?
Regardless of type, the core approach is similar.
Focus on:
• Hydration
• Gentle skincare
• Trigger avoidance
• Barrier repair
To understand what causes eczema, see our guide on what causes eczema and why it happens.
To learn what worsens symptoms, see eczema triggers and how to avoid them.
To treat eczema effectively, see eczema treatment and long-term care.
Supporting Your Skin Daily
Daily care is essential for all types of eczema.
A gentle option like our Atopic Cream can help:
• Soothe irritation
• Hydrate dry skin
• Support long-term skin repair
For more options, explore our eczema treatment collection.
Do all types of eczema have the same symptoms?
No. Different types of eczema can cause different symptoms, although dryness, itching, inflammation, and skin irritation are common across most forms.
Final Thoughts
Eczema refers to a group of skin conditions that share similar symptoms but appear differently depending on the type.
By understanding the different types, you can:
• Identify your symptoms more clearly
• Choose better treatments
• Reduce flare-ups over time
The more you understand your skin, the easier it becomes to manage eczema effectively.
FAQs About Types of Eczema
What is the most common type of eczema?
Atopic eczema is the most common type and is often linked to genetics and skin barrier dysfunction.
Which type of eczema causes blisters?
Dyshidrotic eczema commonly causes small fluid-filled blisters on the hands and feet.
Which type of eczema affects the scalp?
Seborrheic dermatitis commonly affects the scalp and can cause flaking, redness, and dandruff-like symptoms.
Can adults develop eczema?
Yes. Many adults develop eczema later in life, even if they did not have it as children.
Do all types of eczema itch?
Most types of eczema cause itching, although severity can vary depending on the type and flare-up.
Our Goal
At Bragan Skincare, our goal has never been unrealistic promises or aggressive
skincare routines. Our focus has always been on creating gentle products designed
to support sensitive skin and help people feel more comfortable and confident in
everyday life.
