Eczema is a skin condition that causes red, itchy, and irritated patches on the skin.
It affects many people worldwide and can be a recurring problem, with the symptoms worsening over time.
Many people think eczema is caused by dirt or not washing up properly. They believe that if someone keeps their skin extra clean, it will go away.
This is a faulty way of looking at eczema. It goes beyond just washing properly – eczema has multiple causes, including a person’s gene, their environment, and how their immune system works.
The truth is that eczema is a complex skin condition with many possible triggers. While good hygiene is important for overall skin health, it is not the only factor that determines whether someone will develop eczema.
If you want to learn more about this skin condition, keep reading as we go over what eczema truly is, the causes and triggers, common symptoms, and how to manage this condition.
Table of Contents
Understanding Eczema
If you or someone you know has this skin condition, please know it is much more than just dirty skin. Eczema is a long-lasting, inflammatory skin condition that can be very frustrating and uncomfortable to deal with, but understanding what it is can help you find relief.
Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a condition that causes red, itchy, and swollen skin. This can be caused by an overactive immune system that leads to inflammation in the skin. Unlike a simple rash that comes and goes, eczema is a lifelong condition that comes up at different times.
Types of Eczema
There are several types besides the common atopic dermatitis.
- Contact dermatitis is a type of eczema triggered by contact with an irritating substance, like certain soaps, fabrics, or chemicals.
- Seborrheic dermatitis is another type, often seen as dandruff on the scalp or oily, irritated skin on the face and chest.
Causes of Eczema
If you’ve probably wondered what is causing all those red, itchy reactions, the truth is, that the causes of eczema go much deeper than not keeping your skin clean enough.
1. Genetics:
Genetics plays a big role in eczema. Some people are born with a higher chance of developing this skin condition.
Certain changes in genes related to the skin’s protective layer and immune system can increase the risk of eczema. So if it runs in your family, that’s likely a factor.
2. Unbalanced Immune System:
It’s not just about having the “eczema gene.” An overactive or unbalanced immune system is also a key cause of this inflamed skin condition.
Your immune cells and the chemicals they make can go into overdrive, leading to that red, itchy rash.
3. Environmental Factors:
Allergens, irritants, changes in weather, and even stress can all set off the immune system and cause a reaction.
For example, certain fabrics, soaps, or animal fur may cause a reaction in someone prone to eczema. Shifts in temperature or humidity can also dry out the skin and damage the protective skin layer.
4. Damaged Skin Barrier:
Speaking of the skin’s protective layer, that’s another important part of the puzzle. Our skin acts as a vital barrier, keeping irritants and allergens out while locking in moisture.
In people with eczema, this skin barrier is often damaged. Dry, cracked skin and too much moisture loss can further inflame the skin and make symptoms worse.
Symptoms
No matter the type, the common symptom usually includes;
- Red and swollen skin in the affected area.
- Intense, constant itching that can disrupt sleep.
- Dry, cracked, or scaly skin that may ooze or form crusts.
- Darker coloured skin (in people with darker complexions).
What Triggers Eczema?
The triggers of these reactions can vary from person to person – things like stress, certain foods, changes in temperature or humidity, and even rough fabrics can all cause a reaction.
But despite the discomfort, there are ways to manage eczema and find relief.
How to Manage this Condition
The most important thing to understand is that eczema is not caused by poor hygiene or “dirty” skin. Washing too much and using harsh cleaners can make symptoms worse by drying out the skin even more.
The key is to be gentle, use moisturising products, and work closely with a dermatologist to create an eczema management plan that works for you. With the right treatment, the frustrating symptoms can be kept under control.
Conclusion
You have seen that eczema has different causes. It’s not just caused by dirt or being dirty so you shouldn’t think it is only caused by not being clean enough.
Trying to deal with eczema on your own can be hard. So I’d encourage you to see a doctor or dermatologist to get the help you need.
Read also: 5 Awesome Tips To Getting A Glowing Skin
