In other people, atopic dermatitis is caused by too much of the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus on the skin.

With a weak barrier function, the skin is less able to retain moisture and protect against bacteria, irritants, allergens and environmental factors - such as tobacco smoke. In some people, atopic dermatitis is related to a gene variation that affects the skin's ability to provide protection. Howland: If those self-care steps don't help, your dermatologist may prescribe topical or oral medications, or other therapies.įor Mayo Clinic News Network, I'm Jason Howland. It's important to hydrate the skin with a moisturizer that is hypoallergenic. If you have a headband or certain things that you wear along your neck, like a necklace or a tie. If you have a watch, where you would wear your watch. Davis: Where your waistband would sit, where your socks or shoes would rub. Howland: Adult eczema often occurs in patches on areas of the body prone to friction or sweat.ĭr. And over time as we age, or genetically if we are predisposed to sensitive skin, it can look like a wicker basket more than a brick wall.

Davis: Atopic dermatitis tends to be red, weepy, crusty, itchy, flaky patches, like oval or circular-shaped areas on the skin.

Howland: It's a chronic condition and tends to flare periodically. Inflammation affects the skin, and the skin is more sensitive than usual. Davis, M.D.: It's a multisystem disorder. Howland: Atopic dermatitis is a sensitivity disease of the skin, similar to asthma in the lungs, hay fever in the sinuses and food allergies in the gut.ĭawn Marie R. Seek immediate medical attention if you or your child has a fever and the rash looks infected. Has symptoms even after trying self-care steps.Has a skin infection - look for new streaks, pus, yellow scabs.Is so uncomfortable that the condition is affecting sleep and daily activities.Talk with a health care provider if you or your child: For some people, it flares and then clears up for a time, even for several years. Small, raised bumps, on brown or Black skinĪtopic dermatitis often begins before age 5 and may continue into the teen and adult years.Rash on swollen skin that varies in color depending on your skin color.Atopic dermatitis in infants (infantile eczema) appears here as red, itchy patches on very dry skin.Ītopic dermatitis (eczema) symptoms can appear anywhere on the body and vary widely from person to person.

Rash that get itchy when wet