Eczema / Dermatitis

Do you have red, itchy, inflamed skin or what looks like an itchy rash that won’t go away? We know how irritating it can be! Come and see us at Wellington Dermatology if you suspect you have eczema / dermatitis of any kind – we can help! So what are typical triggers, and how can eczema be treated…

What is Eczema?

Also known as dermatitis, eczema is not contagious, and is essentially skin inflammation. There are several types of eczema, each having different causes and appearance – some eczema itches or burns, while others are barely noticeable. If the skin is itchy, red, flaky or weeps it is usually a clear sign of eczema. In New Zealand, the following types of eczema/dermatitis are common:

  • seborrhoeic eczema / seborrhoeic dermatitis
  • atopic eczema / atopic dermatitis
  • contact dermatitis

In principle, eczema can arise anywhere on the body, but seborrheic dermatitis often occurs on the face and scalp, and if it is hand eczema, it is often a contact dermatitis.

(See also Psoriasis)