What Is Eczema?
Do you battle eczema?
You’re not alone.
A recent study found that as many as 31.6 million Americans have symptoms of eczema and that it’s prevalent among 10.1% of adults!
When I was a kid, I used to get eczema a lot on my cheeks.
Now my youngest has eczema, too.
I’m super thankful that I can easily treat it most of the time, and it doesn’t seem to bother him!
Eczema, also referred to as atopic dermatitis, is an inflammatory skin condition that’s characterized by dry, red, rough, and itchy skin.
“It’s usually an itch that rashes rather than a rash that itches,” explains New York City dermatologist Dr. Craig Austin.
This means eczema usually starts with an itch that turns into an inflamed rash.
According to the National Eczema Association, there are several different types of eczema, all of which cause itching and redness:
- Atopic dermatitis
- Contact dermatitis
- Dyshidrotic eczema
- Hand eczema
- Neurodermatitis
- Nummular eczema
- Stasis dermatitis
What Causes Eczema?
While experts don’t know the exact cause of eczema, there are a few different factors that may trigger symptoms.
- Genetics – Eczema is a condition that can run in the family. Your parents or siblings may be able to bond with you over pesky, itchy skin!
- Allergies – Your skin may be reacting to an allergy (such as dust mites, pollen, food, etc.). In response, your immune system goes into overdrive, causing your skin to flare up.
- Irritants – When your skin comes into contact with something that aggravates it, such as a strong soap or detergent, it can cause a reaction (AKA contact dermatitis).
- Climate – Unfortunately, all sorts of weather conditions can anger your eczema. This includes hot weather and high and low humidity.
- Stress – When we get stressed out, our bodies release cortisol, a stress hormone which causes inflammation (making conditions like eczema worse).
Why Is Eczema Worse in Winter?
Dry winter weather is famous for sucking moisture out of your skin.
When your skin is dry, its protective layer is compromised and becomes more vulnerable to damage, injury, and, yes, rashes.
Not to mention, if the holidays added extra stress to your life, your skin might be screaming in response! Read more
Also read 10 DIY At Home Facial Steams for Clear Glowing Skin
