Eczema: Causes, Symptoms, and How It Affects the Skin
Eczema: Causes, Symptoms, and How It Affects the Skin
Eczema is a common skin condition that affects the skin’s ability to protect itself.
It can develop at any age.
It may appear in babies, children, or adults.
For some people, symptoms are mild and occasional.
For others, eczema can be long-lasting and difficult to control.
Although eczema often looks similar on the surface, the reasons behind it — and the way it behaves — can vary from person to person. Understanding what it is, and how it affects the skin, helps explain why gentle, consistent care matters.
This guide acts as a central hub for understanding eczema, with links to more detailed pages on specific types, triggers, age groups, and body areas.
This page serves as a central reference for understanding eczema.
It brings together explanations of eczema types, triggers, age-related patterns, and body-area differences, with links to more detailed guides where each topic is explored in depth.
What Is Eczema?
It is linked to a weakened skin barrier.
The skin barrier is the outermost layer of the skin.
Its role is to lock moisture in and protect the body from irritants, allergens, and bacteria.
When this barrier does not function properly, the skin loses moisture more easily and becomes vulnerable to irritation and inflammation.This process is explained in more detail in our guide to skin barrier function and healing.
Over time, repeated inflammation leads to many of the symptoms commonly associated with eczema.
It is not contagious.
It cannot be passed from one person to another through touch or contact.
Common Symptoms of Eczema
Symptoms can look different depending on skin tone, age, and the area of the body affected…
Common symptoms may include:
- Persistent dryness
- Itching, which may range from mild to severe
- Red or inflamed patches
- Skin that feels tight, sore, or uncomfortable
- Flaking, scaling, or cracking
In some cases, the skin may ooze or crust during flare-ups.
In others, symptoms may remain subtle but ongoing.
Itching is often the most disruptive symptom.
Scratching can further damage the skin barrier and increase irritation, creating a cycle that is difficult to break.
Why Eczema Develops
Eczema does not have a single cause.
Instead, it usually develops due to a combination of factors, such as:
- A naturally weaker skin barrier
- Genetic tendencies
- Immune system responses
- Environmental influences
When the skin barrier is already vulnerable, everyday exposures such as soaps, detergents, fragrances, fabrics, stress, or weather changes can trigger inflammation.
These triggers are explained in more detail in our guide to common eczema triggers.
This is why eczema often follows a pattern of flare-ups and calmer periods, rather than remaining constant.
How Eczema Affects Different Areas of the Body
The condition does not behave the same way across all areas of the skin.
The appearance and sensation of eczema can vary depending on location.
For example:
- On the face, eczema may cause redness, dryness, or sensitivity
- On the hands, it may lead to cracking and soreness
- On the scalp, it can present as dryness or irritation
- In skin folds, eczema may feel itchy and inflamed
For a deeper explanation, see our dedicated guide on facial eczema, including common triggers and care tips.
Eczema at Different Stages of Life
It can appear at any stage of life.
In infants, it often affects the cheeks, scalp, or body.
In children, it commonly appears in the bends of the arms and knees.
In adults, eczema may involve the hands, face, eyelids, or other sensitive areas.
For a deeper explanation, see our dedicated guide on baby eczema, including early signs and gentle routines.
Some people find their symptoms improve with age.
Others continue to experience eczema into adulthood.
Even when symptoms are mild or inactive, the skin may remain more sensitive than average.
Why Ongoing Skin Care Is Important
Because eczema is closely linked to a weakened skin barrier, daily skin care choices play an important role in symptom control.
Frequent washing, harsh cleansers, or fragranced products can increase irritation.
Gentle, consistent routines help reduce unnecessary stress on the skin.
For many people, managing eczema is not about quick fixes.
It is about long-term support and understanding how their skin reacts to everyday life.
What This Guide Will Explore Next
Eczema is a broad condition with many variations.
To make it easier to understand and manage, this guide will explore:
- Different types of eczema
- Common triggers and flare-ups
- How eczema differs from other skin conditions
- Practical ways to support eczema-prone skin
Each section builds on the last, creating a clear and structured understanding of eczema and sensitive skin.
Types and How They Differ
It is not a single condition.
Instead, it is a term used to describe several related skin conditions that share similar features.
Although these types of eczema often overlap, each one has its own patterns, triggers, and affected areas.
Understanding the differences helps explain why eczema can look and feel so different from person to person.
Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is the most common form.
It often begins in childhood, but it can continue into adulthood or develop later in life.
People with atopic dermatitis usually have a naturally weaker skin barrier and a tendency toward dry, sensitive skin.
Common features include:
- Persistent dryness
- Itching that may worsen at night
- Red or inflamed patches
- Flare-ups triggered by irritants or stress
Atopic dermatitis is closely linked to other allergic conditions, such as asthma or hay fever.
For a deeper explanation of this topic, see our dedicated guide on Atopic Dermatitis.
Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin reacts to something it has touched.
There are two main types:
- Irritant contact dermatitis, caused by repeated exposure to harsh substances
- Allergic contact dermatitis, caused by an immune reaction to a specific allergen
Common triggers include soaps, detergents, fragrances, metals, and certain fabrics.
Symptoms usually appear only on areas of skin that have been exposed.
For a deeper explanation, see our dedicated guide on contact dermatitis, which explains common triggers and how it differs from eczema.
Dyshidrotic Eczema
Dyshidrotic eczema mainly affects the hands and feet.
It is often characterised by:
- Small, itchy blisters
- Redness or peeling skin
- Soreness or burning sensations
This type can be particularly uncomfortable and may flare during periods of stress or hot weather.
Because it affects specific areas, dyshidrotic eczema is often mistaken for other hand or foot conditions, which is discussed in in our Dyshidrotic Eczema blog.
Nummular Eczema
Nummular eczema appears as round or oval patches on the skin.
These patches are often:
- Well-defined
- Dry or scaly
- Itchy or inflamed
Nummular eczema is more common in adults and may be triggered by very dry skin, minor skin injuries, or cold weather.
It can sometimes resemble fungal infections or psoriasis, which is why accurate differentiation matters.
This is explored further in our blog Eczema v Psoriasis.
Seborrhoeic Dermatitis
Seborrhoeic dermatitis is related to eczema but behaves differently from other types.
It commonly affects areas rich in oil glands, such as:
- The scalp
- The sides of the nose
- The eyebrows
- Behind the ears
It often causes redness, flaking, or greasy scales rather than extreme dryness.
For a deeper explanation of this topic, see our dedicated guide on seborrhoeic dermatitis.
Stasis Dermatitis
Stasis dermatitis occurs most often on the lower legs.
It is linked to poor circulation and increased pressure in the veins, rather than a primary skin barrier issue.
Symptoms may include:
- Swelling in the lower legs
- Discolouration of the skin
- Itching or dryness
Why Different Types Can Overlap
Many people experience features of more than one type.
For example, someone may have atopic dermatitis but also react to irritants, leading to contact dermatitis symptoms.
This overlap can make eczema feel unpredictable.
Understanding these distinctions helps guide appropriate care and avoids unnecessary treatments.
What This Means for Eczema Care
Because there are multiple subtypes, there is no single solution that works for everyone.
Care often depends on:
- The type of eczema involved
- The area of the body affected
- The person’s age and triggers
Later sections of this guide will explore how eczema affects different age groups and body areas, and how gentle skin care principles apply across all types.
Eczema Triggers, Flare-Ups, and Supporting the Skin
Eczema symptoms rarely stay the same all the time.
Most people experience periods when their skin feels settled, followed by flare-ups when symptoms worsen.
Understanding what triggers these changes can make eczema easier to manage over time.
What Is an Eczema Flare-Up?
A flare-up is a period when eczema symptoms become more active.
During a flare, the skin may:
- Feel itchier than usual
- Become red or inflamed
- Appear drier or more sensitive
- React more strongly to everyday products
Flare-ups can last days or weeks.
They often improve once triggers are reduced and the skin barrier is supported.
Common Triggers
Triggers vary from person to person.
However, several factors are commonly linked to flare-ups.
These include:
- Soaps and harsh cleansers
- Fragrances and essential oils
- Laundry detergents
- Synthetic or rough fabrics
- Temperature changes
- Stress or lack of sleep
A more detailed breakdown is covered in Sensitive Skin Triggers.
Reducing exposure to triggers does not cure eczema, but it can reduce how often flare-ups occur.
Why the Skin Barrier Matters During Flare-Ups
During a flare, the skin barrier is under increased stress.
Moisture escapes more easily.
Irritants penetrate the skin more readily.
Inflammation becomes harder to control.
This is why barrier-focused care is often recommended as part of long-term eczema management.
The role of the skin barrier is explained further in our guide to skin barrier function and healing.
Supporting Eczema-Prone Skin Gently
Many people with eczema benefit from a simplified skin care routine.
This usually involves:
- Using fragrance-free products
- Avoiding harsh foaming cleansers
- Moisturising regularly
- Keeping routines consistent
Rather than switching products frequently, prone skin often responds better to steady, predictable care.
Some people choose to use fragrance-free, barrier-supporting creams developed specifically for sensitive or eczema-prone skin, such as Bragan Skincare’s Atopic Cream, which is designed to support dry, reactive skin without added fragrance.
This type of product is not a treatment for eczema itself, but it may help support the skin barrier when used as part of a broader routine.
Managing Flare-Ups Without Overloading the Skin
When it flares, it can be tempting to try multiple products at once.
However, adding too many new products can sometimes increase irritation.
A calmer approach often works better:
- Reduce routines to the essentials
- Avoid introducing new fragranced products
- Focus on moisture and protection
- Allow time for the skin to respond
For people with recurring flare-ups, using a consistent moisturiser formulated for sensitive skin can help maintain routine stability during difficult periods.
Stress and Eczema Flare-Ups
Stress does not cause eczema, but it can worsen symptoms.
Periods of emotional or physical stress may increase inflammation in the body.
This can make itching more intense and flare-ups more frequent.
Managing stress is not always easy, but recognising its impact can help explain changes in symptoms.
What Comes Next
Triggers and flare-ups are only one part of living with eczema.
In the next section, this guide will explore:
- How eczema differs by age
- How location on the body affects symptoms
- Why care needs change for babies, children, and adults
This helps build a complete picture of eczema and how to support eczema-prone skin in everyday life.
Eczema by Age and Body Area
Eczema does not affect everyone in the same way.
Age and body location both influence how eczema appears, how it feels, and how the skin responds to care.
Understanding these differences helps explain why eczema advice often varies from person to person.
This eczema hub provides the foundational overview, while each linked guide explores one aspect in greater detail.
Eczema in Babies
Eczema often begins early in life.
In babies, it commonly appears on:
- The cheeks
- The scalp
- The arms and legs
- The body
Baby skin is thinner and more delicate than adult skin.
Because of this, dryness and irritation can develop quickly.
Early signs may include rough patches, redness, or frequent scratching.
These signs are explored further in our blog on early signs of eczema in babies.
Gentle skin care is especially important at this stage, as over-washing or fragranced products can easily worsen irritation.
Eczema in Children
As children grow, eczema often shifts location.
It commonly affects:
- The bends of the elbows
- Behind the knees
- The wrists and ankles
- The neck
Children may experience itching that interferes with sleep or concentration.
Scratching can damage the skin barrier and prolong flare-ups.
Some children see the problem improve with age.
Others continue to experience symptoms into adulthood.
Eczema in Adults
Adult eczema can appear in different ways.
Common areas include:
- The hands
- The face and eyelids
- The neck
- Areas exposed to frequent washing or irritation
Hand eczema is particularly common in adults due to repeated contact with water, soaps, or cleaning products.
This is discussed in more detail in our Eczema on Hands blog here.
Adult eczema may be long-standing or develop later in life, even in people who did not have eczema as children.
Facial Eczema
The skin on the face is thinner and more exposed than elsewhere on the body.
Facial may involve:
- Redness
- Flaking or scaling
- Sensitivity
- Tight or sore skin
It often affects areas such as the cheeks, eyelids, or around the nose.
Because facial skin reacts easily, care needs to be especially gentle.
Specific guidance is covered in our facial eczema blog here.
Eczema on the Scalp
Eczema on the scalp can be difficult to identify.
It may cause:
- Dryness or flaking
- Itching
- Sensitivity or soreness
For a deeper explanation, see our dedicated guide on scalp eczema and how it differs from dandruff.
Hair care products and washing routines often play a role in scalp symptoms.
Eczema in Skin Folds and Sensitive Areas
Eczema can also affect skin folds, such as:
- Behind the knees
- Under the arms
- Around the groin or buttocks
These areas may feel particularly itchy or uncomfortable due to heat and friction.
Because these regions are sensitive, symptoms can be distressing.
Supportive, fragrance-free care is often preferred.
More information on this topic is covered in Eczema on private parts.
Why Location Matters
Different areas of the body have different skin thickness, oil production, and exposure levels.
This means:
- Some areas dry out more quickly
- Some react more strongly to products
- Some are more prone to friction or moisture
Understanding where eczema appears helps guide appropriate skin care choices and avoids unnecessary irritation.
What This Means for Managing Eczema
Care is not one-size-fits-all.
Effective support often depends on:
- Age
- Body location
- Individual triggers
- Skin sensitivity
Later sections of this guide will bring these factors together and explain how gentle routines can support eczema-prone skin across different life stages and body areas.
Gentle Care Principles for Eczema-Prone Skin
Eczema care is not about perfection.
It is about consistency, simplicity, and understanding how the skin behaves.
While it cannot always be prevented, gentle daily habits can help reduce irritation and support the skin barrier over time.
Focus on Supporting the Skin Barrier
Because eczema is closely linked to a weakened skin barrier, most care principles revolve around protecting and supporting that barrier.
This includes:
- Keeping moisture in
- Reducing exposure to irritants
- Avoiding unnecessary disruption to the skin
Barrier support does not rely on strong or active products.
In fact, simpler routines are often better tolerated.
Keep Skin Care Routines Simple
Using too many products can overwhelm sensitive skin.
A gentle routine usually involves:
- Mild, non-foaming cleansing
- Regular moisturising
- Avoiding frequent product changes
Introducing multiple new products at once can make it difficult to identify what the skin is reacting to.
Consistency matters more than variety.
Choose Fragrance-Free Products Where Possible
Fragrance is a common trigger for irritation.
Even natural or essential oil fragrances can cause problems for eczema-prone skin.
For this reason, many people prefer fragrance-free products designed for sensitive skin, such as those found in Bragan Skincare’s eczema-friendly range, which focuses on barrier support rather than masking symptoms with scent.
These products are not a cure, but they may help reduce unnecessary irritation as part of a wider care approach.
Moisturising Regularly Matters
Dry skin is more likely to itch, crack, and flare.
Moisturising regularly helps:
- Reduce moisture loss
- Improve skin comfort
- Support recovery after flare-ups
Many people find it helpful to moisturise at least once or twice daily, especially after washing, when the skin is more prone to dryness.
Be Gentle During Flare-Ups
When it flares, the skin is already under stress.
During these periods:
- Avoid scrubs or exfoliants
- Avoid introducing new products
- Reduce washing frequency where possible
- Focus on calming and protecting the skin
Allowing the skin time to settle is often more effective than trying to “fix” it quickly.
Understand Personal Triggers
Triggers vary from person to person.
Common triggers include:
- Soaps and detergents
- Weather changes
- Stress
- Fabrics
- Frequent washing
Keeping note of flare-ups and possible triggers can help identify patterns over time.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While many people manage eczema with daily skin care, there are times when professional advice is important.
This includes situations where:
- Symptoms worsen suddenly
- The skin becomes painful or infected
- Eczema interferes with sleep or daily life
- Symptoms do not improve with gentle care
A healthcare professional can help assess symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment where needed.
Below are some respected sources for further information:
Bringing It All Together
It is a complex condition, but understanding how the skin works makes it easier to support.
By focusing on barrier care, gentle routines, and consistency, many people find their skin becomes more manageable over time.
This guide has covered:
- What eczema is
- Different types of eczema
- Triggers and flare-ups
- How eczema varies by age and body area
- Gentle principles for daily care
Together, these sections form a complete foundation for understanding eczema and eczema-prone skin. This eczema hub provides the foundational overview, while each linked guide explores one aspect in greater detail.
This guide is maintained and updated as part of Bragan Skincare’s eczema education resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main cause?
Eczema usually develops due to a combination of factors, including a weakened skin barrier, genetics, immune responses, and environmental triggers. There is no single cause.
Is eczema contagious?
No.
Eczema is not contagious and cannot be passed from one person to another through contact.
Can adults develop eczema later in life?
Yes.
Some people develop eczema for the first time in adulthood, even if they did not have symptoms as children.
Does it ever go away completely?
For some people, eczema improves significantly with age.
For others, it may come and go throughout life. Even when symptoms are mild, the skin may remain sensitive.
What causes flare ups?
Common triggers include soaps, fragrances, detergents, stress, weather changes, and fabrics. Triggers vary between individuals.
Can moisturisers help?
Moisturisers do not cure eczema, but they can help support the skin barrier, reduce dryness, and improve comfort when used regularly as part of a gentle routine.
This guide is written for educational purposes and aligns with guidance from recognised health organisations such as the NHS and HSE
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