Eczema Facts for Kids

Eczema is a common skin condition. It makes your skin red and itchy. Sometimes, your skin can even get dry and flaky. It's also known as dermatitis. This word comes from an old Greek word meaning "to boil over."

Eczema affects the outer layer of your skin, called the epidermis. It can make your skin feel very uncomfortable. For some people, eczema can last for a long time.

What Does Eczema Look Like?
Types of Eczema
What Can Trigger Eczema?
How is Eczema Treated?
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What Does Eczema Look Like?

If you have eczema, your skin might:

Turn red and get irritated.
Feel very itchy.
Develop a rash.
Sometimes ooze clear fluid.
Become dry and flaky.
Turn a lighter color in the affected area.

Eczema often appears on the backs of your knees. It can also show up on your elbows, hands, or face. It's often more common during the colder winter months.

Types of Eczema

There are different kinds of eczema. The three main types are:

Atopic dermatitis: This is the most common type. It often runs in families.
Contact dermatitis: This happens when your skin touches something that irritates it.
Neurodermatitis: This type causes intense itching in one specific area.

It's important to know that eczema is not contagious. You cannot catch it from another person. If your family members have eczema, you might be more likely to get it too.

What Can Trigger Eczema?

Sometimes, certain things can make eczema worse or cause a flare-up. These are called triggers. Some common triggers can include:

Certain foods.
Some medicines.
Dry air, especially in winter.
Harsh soaps or detergents.
Stress.

How is Eczema Treated?

While there's no cure for eczema, there are many ways to manage it. Treatments can help make your skin feel better and reduce itching.

Lotions and ointments: Special creams can help keep your skin moisturized. They can also reduce inflammation.
Medicines: Your doctor might suggest medicines to help with itching or inflammation.
Bathing: Taking warm (not hot) baths can help. Hot water can make eczema rashes worse.
Avoid triggers: Knowing what makes your eczema flare up can help you avoid those things.

Working with a doctor can help you find the best way to manage your eczema.