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Dermatitis and Eczema

What is Dermatitis and Eczema?

Dermatitis is a group of inflammatory skin conditions that cause itchiness, redness, and changes in the outer layer of the skin (epidermis). It disrupts the skin’s barrier, leading to symptoms like flaking, swelling, and rashes. While often used interchangeably with eczema, dermatitis is a broader term encompassing all types of skin inflammation, whereas eczema specifically involves swelling in the epidermis.

Common Symptoms of Dermatitis

  • Redness, heat, and flaking skin
  • Swelling and itchy rashes
  • Rough, dry patches or weeping sores
  • Symptoms can range from mild irritation to severe body-wide rashes

Dermatitis can affect any part of the body, including the face, scalp, hands, and legs. Severity and symptoms vary between individuals, with some experiencing occasional dryness and others suffering frequent flare-ups.

Who is Affected by Dermatitis?

Dermatitis is a common condition that affects 1 in 5 people at some stage in life. It occurs across all age groups:

  • Children: Atopic dermatitis and pityriasis alba are more common.
  • Young and middle-aged adults: Hand eczema is frequent.
  • Older adults: Conditions like venous eczema and asteatotic dermatitis are prevalent.

While dermatitis is not limited by race or gender, individuals with a family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies may have a higher risk. Stress and environmental factors can also trigger symptoms.

Types of Dermatitis

Dermatitis is categorized into exogenous (caused by external factors) or endogenous (due to internal causes).

Endogenous dermatitis occurs because of often ill-understood internal factors. There are various subtypes of this condition.

The most common exogenous types include:

  1. Allergic Contact Dermatitis: Triggered by allergens like nickel, perfumes, or rubber.
  2. Irritant Contact Dermatitis: Caused by exposure to irritants (e.g., soaps, detergents, solvents).
  3. Photosensitive Dermatitis: Induced by light or UV exposure.
  4. Post-Traumatic Dermatitis: Triggered by physical injuries like burns or abrasions.
  5. Infectious Dermatitis: Due to bacterial, fungal, or viral skin infections.
  6. Drug-Induced Dermatitis: Caused by certain medications.

What Worsens Dermatitis?

Dermatitis often results from an impaired skin barrier. This leads to inflammation and itching caused by histamine release, a response to irritation or allergens. Scratching the skin worsens the cycle, triggering more histamine release and intensifying the symptoms.

Stress, genetics, environmental triggers, and exposure to irritants can worsen dermatitis. Flare-ups may also occur without any identifiable trigger.

How is Dermatitis Treated?

While dermatitis cannot always be cured, effective treatment can manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Avoiding Triggers

  • Identify and avoid allergens and irritants through patch testing.
  • Use protective gloves to shield hands during work or cleaning.
  • Switch to fragrance-free and gentle skin products.

Topical Therapies

  • Emollients: Moisturize the skin and replace soaps.
  • Topical Steroids: Reduce inflammation
  • Calcineurin Inhibitors: Non-steroidal alternatives for sensitive areas like the face.
  • JAK Inhibitors: Newer treatments for severe dermatitis.

Physical Therapies

  • UVB Phototherapy: A safe, controlled treatment for severe or resistant cases. Narrowband UVB (nbUVB) phototherapy is a safe, effective eczema treatment that has provided excellent results and significant relief of eczema symptoms for many years. Unlike UV radiation from the sun, which is not safe to expose your body to in uncontrolled dosages, UVB phototherapy utilises a specific wavelength of the UV spectrum, which is highly controlled and artificially produced through medical bulbs. This is a much safer alternative and a standalone treatment which does not require oral medications. Though many imagine UVB phototherapy to resemble a solarium and attribute it with the same risks, it is a highly researched, medically proven, safe wavelength of light treatment which does not resemble natural UV exposure.

Treatment of eczema with UVB Phototherapy typically requires patient attendance 2-3 times per week for an initial period (approximately 6 weeks) and will continue at a reduced frequency until the eczema is under control. The length and regularity of your treatments is very patient-specific, and carefully monitored by the treating doctors.

Systemic Treatments

  • Antihistamines: Relieve itching, often using sedating formulas.
  • Antibiotics/Antivirals: Treat secondary bacterial or viral infections.
  • Immunosuppressants: Medications like methotrexate and cyclosporine for severe conditions.
  • Biological Therapies: Advanced options targeting specific inflammatory pathways

Managing Dermatitis Symptoms

Dermatitis can severely impact daily life, leading to discomfort, disturbed sleep, and even anxiety or depression. Visible symptoms on areas like the face or hands can affect self-confidence and relationships. Proper management involves:

  • A tailored treatment plan
  • Education on how to protect and repair the skin barrier
  • Regular follow-ups and adjustments to treatment

We are committed to empowering you with the knowledge, tools, and treatment options needed to reduce the discomfort of eczema and maintain your skin’s health for the long term. No matter your age, profession, or personal circumstances, managing eczema is essential for improving your overall health and quality of life. Let us help you take that critical first step toward relief and confidence. Book your initial consultation and take the first step toward managing your dermatitis effectively.

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