If you've ever experienced dry, irritated, or itchy skin, there is a chance you have experienced some form of dermatitis. Dermatitis, more commonly known as eczema, can manifest itself in a wide variety of forms.

To properly treat this skin condition, it is crucial to recognize which type is currently wreaking havoc on your skin. Each version of eczema comes with its own set of triggers and treatments. We wrote this article to help you learn more about the various eczema types. Then you can determine which one you’re experiencing and take the first step to getting some relief.

Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is the name given to eczema for a long-term case. This is the most typical type of eczema and usually begins during adolescence. It will come and go in severity over the years, and as you grow out of childhood, you will most likely notice it on the hands and feet. Sadly, this variation of the skin disorder typically is accompanied by hay fever and asthma. All three together are known as the ‘Atopic Triad.’ 

The causes are mostly out of your control and range from genetics, dry skin, and triggers in the environment. There is no cure for this version of eczema, but daily bathing with a great all-natural moisturizing soap will help soothe your skin and moisturizing daily is also crucial. Also learning what to avoid if you have Eczema can be very helpful in managing this skin condition.

Signs of Atopic Dermatitis

• Dry, scaly skin spanning the entire body.
• Raised, inflamed areas in the creases of the arms, neck, legs, and eyelids.
• Babies may experience irritation on their face and scalp.

Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis can occur at any time in someone’s life and is an allergic reaction to the skin caused by some substance. This form of eczema can occur anywhere on the body and, like most eczema, is triggered by an overactive immune system.

Common triggers for this irritating condition are harsh chemicals found in soaps, detergents, and fabric softeners. A great way to avoid this type of dermatitis is by using cosmetic supplies and detergents derived from all-natural sources. If you’re not already using a laundry detergent for sensitive skin we suggest switching to all Free and Clear Liquid Laundry Detergent – recommended by dermatologists.

Signs of Contact Dermatitis

• Painful and itchy skin that occurs after contact with a substance.
• Blisters on the skin that sting and sometimes emit fluids.
• More severe cases could result in hives on the skin.

Dyshidrotic Eczema

Eczema in this variety is more common in women than in men. This form of eczema is most often found in-between the fingers, toes, on the palms, and also on the soles of the feet. Because of its prominence in these areas, it is sometimes referred to as foot-and-hand eczema. Triggers that can cause symptoms to happen are stress, chemicals, pollen, and some metals found in jewelry; particularly nickel and cobalt.

Signs of Dyshidrotic Eczema

• Blisters that appear to be deep within the skin
• Itching and flaky skin in, on, or around the fingers and toes
• Pain and irritation in the palms of your hands and soles of your feet

Stasis Dermatitis

Stasis dermatitis is a manifestation of eczema that happens whenever blood pools in the legs because the veins do not provide a pathway for return flow. Also known as varicose eczema, this is a result of blood escaping from capillaries. A common cause of this form of eczema is varicose veins.

Signs of Stasis Dermatitis

• Patchy, red splotches in the legs or near the ankles.
• Swollen areas may feel like they are being poked with pins and needles.
• Itchy legs or pain in legs can be a sign.

Discoid Eczema

This type of eczema is often called nummular eczema and causes small round patches of irritated skin to appear. It can become red, swollen, cracked, and itchy. It can appear in children as well as adults, and its exact cause is not known. Triggers are thought to be insect bites, poor blood circulation, or cold environments. The round patches look similar to ringworm patches.

Signs of Discoid Eczema

• Round-shaped irritated blemishes on the lower legs or forearms. 
• The center of the round, irritated spot can sometimes clear up, leaving a clear patch.
• The spot may also become scaly after some time.

Taking Care of Your Eczema

These are just a few of the different types of eczema that can cause problems on the skin. Although accidental contact with harmful chemicals is always a risk, an excellent way to try to treat these symptoms is by utilizing all-natural soaps and applying steroidal creams to soothe inflamed areas.

Your skin is one of your most important organs, so it is essential to take care of it and give it the treatment it needs when one of these potentially painful conditions rears its ugly head.  

Soothe All Types of Eczema With A Natural Soap

Regardless of which type of Eczema you may have, using safe and gentle products is very important to keep your skin happy. Our Honey & Oatmeal Soap Bar gently cleanses the skin with all natural ingredients and is suitable for all skin types. Try yours risk-free today!