Eczema

Eczema

Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that causes irritated, rash-like patches on different parts of the body. There are several forms of eczema, the most common being atopic dermatitis. Symptoms usually include very dry and itchy skin that can be rough, oozy, or leathery. Eczema may affect the hands, insides of the elbows, behind the knees, the face, the scalp, or other areas. Treatment usually involves topical, oral, or injectable medications. Keeping on top of your skin care routine and limiting stress can help to manage symptoms.

Commonly Asked Questions

Is eczema contagious?

Eczema is not contagious. It cannot be spread from one person to another in any way.

Eczema’s root causes are likely related to genetics and an overreactive immune system. Eczema flares usually have environmental causes. Irritants such as chemical soaps, allergens, temperature changes and stress can all trigger eczema symptoms.

Symptoms include dry, cracked, itchy skin that may become swollen and inflamed. Skin may also change color and develop small raised bumps (hives), oozing and crusting, or thickening. In some cases the skin around the eyes may darken. Skin can also become raw and sensitive from scratching.

There is no cure for eczema; it is a chronic condition that can worsen during flares, then improve. While no treatment can make eczema go away completely, it can generally be managed with medications, nondrug therapies, and lifestyle choices.

Stress is not a direct cause of eczema, but it definitely contributes to flare-ups and can trigger or worsen symptoms.

Meet Our Experts In Eczema
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Everyday Health’s team of board-certified physicians and health professionals contribute to the creation and review of content, ensuring that the information is useful, up-to-date, and accurate.

Ross Radusky, MD

Ross Radusky, MD, is a practicing board-certified dermatologist at the Dermatology Treatment and Research Center in Dallas. Originally from New York City, he graduated summa cum laude from the City University of New York and then received his MD from the New York University School of Medicine. There, he was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society and served as chapter president for two years. He completed his residency in dermatology at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital and Weill Cornell Medical Center, and at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

Dr. Radusky practices general and cosmetic dermatology with a focus on the early detection of skin cancer, and provides patients with a personalized approach to looking their best at any age. He has authored articles and textbook chapters on the clues that our finger- and toenails may provide us about internal disease, as well as on comprehensive therapies for cosmetic dermatology and reversing the signs of skin aging.

Complementing his medical practice, Radusky has a strong passion for the cultural arts, particularly in expanding access to youths and seniors. He previously served as an artist instructor for the Rockaway Artists Alliance, a New York City nonprofit arts and education organization, and then served as both a board director and treasurer of the organization throughout his medical school training.

Radusky enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife Robyn, son Oliver, and poodle Lucy, where he can usually be found preventing photoaging and reducing the risk of skin cancer beneath an umbrella in a wide-brimmed hat. He is also the proud inventor of Sunshotz, the world’s only sunscreen measuring cup, designed to help patients of all ages apply the proper amount of sunscreen needed to enjoy all the sun without the burn.

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Resources
  1. Eczema. Cleveland Clinic. October 2022.

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