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Eczema and dermatitis are common, yet bothersome, skin problems. Some people may shrug them off as a simple rash. However, they can both lead to problems if they are left untreated.

In this article we'll look at these common skin issues while also giving you some basic tips on how to treat them.

Dermatitis

The term "dermatitis" the name given to a group of skin problems that cause inflammation. What these different types of inflammation share in common is an allergic reaction to a specific substance or allergen. Atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, psoriasis and urticaria are all types of dermatitis.

But, in order to know which type of dermatitis you are suffering from you need to have some context, if not you're looking at a simple rash that you know nothing about.

Eczema

Eczema is a type of dermatitis, usually atopic dermatitis in children, which is commonly characterized by one or several of the following symptoms:

*redness

*skin dryness and itching

*skin edema (swelling)

Severe cases of eczema can present:

*oozing and/or bleeding

*flaking, crusting, blistering, or cracking

Mild forms of eczema will usually subside rather quickly, nevertheless, more severe forms of eczema can actually lead to breaking of the skin and subsequent infections. This is the primary reason that it is important to deal with eczema promptly.

Firstly, you should identify the triggers that set off eczema flare-ups. Everyone has a different trigger, however, the most common ones are contact with harsh ingredients and rough fabrics, and exposure to sunlight, heat and wind.

Identifying your triggers and avoiding them is essential if you want to keep your eczema under control.

If you discover that you react negatively to cleaning agents then changing the brand you are using or avoid them all together. Avoiding scratchy clothing is much easier; simply do not buy clothes made from itchy material. Prefer clothing that is made with cottons and linens instead of clothing made with wool.

If your flare-ups are caused by heat and humidity, then you should avoid visiting areas where the climate is both humid and hot. Stay in shady areas and away from open flames. When you exercise, do so in an open, well ventilated area.

During the summer you should sip cool water to help control your body's core temperature. This will make it less likely that you develop an eczema flare-up.

Changing your skin care routine can also help alleviate your eczema and help reduce the number of flare-ups. Because traditional skin care products usually contain fragrances, fillers and chemical ingredients that can aggravate your eczema, it is often best to use natural skin care balms.

Healing Balms & Eczema Flare-Ups

Always look for products that are fragrance and alcohol free. Also, stay away from the following natural extracts: cinnamon, menthol and ylang-ylang. A great dry skin lotion will also help alleviate the dry skin that usually accompanies eczema.