Condition guide

Eczema

Also known as Atopic dermatitis, Dermatitis, Contact dermatitis, Itchy dry skin.

Cut aloe vera leaf, a bowl of oat cream, oat grains and chamomile flowers on sage linen

In short

Eczema is a group of conditions that cause dry, itchy, inflamed skin. The most common type, atopic dermatitis, often starts in childhood and runs in families with asthma or allergies, while contact dermatitis is a reaction to something touching the skin, such as hair dye, nickel or fragrance. Gentle skin care, regular moisturising and avoiding triggers are the base of treatment, with medical treatment for flares.

Typical signs

Dry, rough skin that itches, often worse at night
Red or darker patches, depending on skin tone
Patches in skin folds such as the elbows, knees and neck
Oozing, crusting or thickened skin from scratching
A rash where something touched the skin, such as a watch strap or hair dye

When to see a dermatologist

Itching is disturbing sleep or daily life
The skin is oozing, crusted, painful or has yellow crusts, which can mean infection
A baby or child has eczema that is not settling
You suspect a reaction to hair dye, cosmetics or something at work
You have been using steroid creams without a prescription

Signs vary from person to person and several skin conditions look alike. Only an examination can confirm a diagnosis.

Terms to know

Eczema: A group of conditions that cause dry, itchy and inflamed skin. Atopic dermatitis is the most common form.
Atopic dermatitis: The most common type of eczema. It causes dry, itchy, inflamed skin and often starts in childhood, sometimes alongside asthma or hay fever.
Dermatitis: A general term for inflammation of the skin, usually with redness, itching and sometimes scaling or blisters.
Contact dermatitis: An itchy rash caused by something touching the skin, either an irritant such as detergent or an allergen such as nickel.
Barrier function: The ability of the outermost skin layer to keep water in and irritants out. A damaged barrier shows up as dryness, stinging and sensitivity.
Ceramides: Fats naturally found in the outer skin layer that help hold skin cells together and support the barrier. Many moisturisers contain them.
Transepidermal water loss: Water that evaporates from the body through the skin. It increases when the skin barrier is damaged.
Pruritus: The medical word for itching.
Patch test: A test in which small amounts of possible allergens are applied to the skin to find the cause of contact allergy. Also used informally for trying a new product on a small area first.
Allergen: A substance that triggers an allergic reaction in a sensitive person, such as nickel, fragrance or certain preservatives.

Full glossary

3D Skin ExplorerSee where it starts: the epidermisOpen the interactive model Research libraryGuidelines and studies on eczema6 entries

Read the guides

Full, referenced articles on eczema written for Indian skin, with answers to common questions.

Skin Conditions8 min read

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) in Adults and Children

Atopic eczema is an itchy rash caused by a weak skin barrier and an overactive immune response. Daily moisturising and a flare plan keep most cases controlled.

Updated 26 October 2026

Skin Conditions8 min read

Hair Dye Allergy: PPD, Patch Tests and the Kala Mehndi Danger

Hair dye allergy is usually caused by PPD, found in most dark dyes and in black henna. Learn the signs, how to patch test, and why kala mehndi is risky.

Updated 26 October 2026

Skin Conditions7 min read

Patch Test for Skin Allergy: What to Expect

A patch test finds the cause of allergic contact dermatitis. Allergen patches stay on your back for two days, with readings over a week. How to prepare.

Updated 26 October 2026

Worried about eczema?

Book an online consultation with Dr. Maria Ansari for an assessment and a written care plan made for you.

How online consultation works Email to book

This page is a short summary for general education and does not replace a consultation with a qualified dermatologist. Do not start, stop or change any medicine based on this page. Read the full medical disclaimer.