When Your Skin Speaks

Eczema — often called atopic dermatitis — is one of the most common chronic skin conditions, affecting millions worldwide.
Characterized by dry, itchy, inflamed patches of skin, eczema isn’t merely a cosmetic concern. It can impact emotional well-being, confidence, and quality of life.

At its core, eczema reflects a deeper imbalance — an overreactive immune response combined with a weakened skin barrier. Understanding this interaction between the body and environment is key to managing the condition effectively.

What Exactly Is Eczema?

Eczema is a non-contagious inflammatory skin disorder. It often starts in childhood but can occur at any age.
In people with eczema, the skin barrier — the outer protective layer — becomes weak, allowing moisture to escape and irritants or allergens to enter. This triggers inflammation, leading to redness, itching, and flaking.

While there are several types of eczema, atopic dermatitis is the most common form.

Common Types of Eczema

1. Atopic Dermatitis – Chronic and hereditary, often associated with allergies or asthma.
2. Contact Dermatitis – Triggered by direct contact with irritants like soaps, perfumes, or metals.
3. Dyshidrotic Eczema – Small, itchy blisters on hands and feet, often due to stress or moisture.
4. Nummular Eczema – Circular, coin-shaped rashes, common on arms and legs.
5. Seborrheic Dermatitis – Affects oily areas like scalp, face, and upper chest; often linked to yeast overgrowth.
6. Stasis Dermatitis – Seen in people with poor blood circulation in the legs.

What Causes Eczema?

Eczema arises from a combination of genetic, immune, and environmental factors.

• Genetics: If one or both parents have allergies, asthma, or eczema, the risk increases.
• Skin Barrier Defect: Reduced production of filaggrin, a key protein, leads to dryness and vulnerability.
• Overactive Immune System: The body overreacts to harmless triggers, causing chronic inflammation.
• Environmental Triggers: Pollutants, harsh detergents, soaps, or allergens (dust mites, pollen, pet dander).
• Climate and Weather: Cold, dry air or hot, humid environments can worsen symptoms.
• Stress: Emotional stress doesn’t cause eczema but can flare it up.
• Dietary Triggers: Dairy, eggs, nuts, and gluten may aggravate symptoms in some individuals.

Recognising the Symptoms

Eczema’s appearance varies from person to person, but common symptoms include:

• Intense itching, often worse at night
• Red or brownish patches on the hands, neck, elbows, knees, or face
• Dry, scaly, or cracked skin
• Thickened, leathery areas from chronic scratching
• Oozing or crusting in severe flare-ups

For many, the itch–scratch cycle becomes the most distressing part of the disease — scratching temporarily relieves the itch but damages the skin further, worsening inflammation.

Medical and Clinical Management

While there’s no permanent cure, modern medicine offers effective tools for symptom control and prevention of flare-ups.

Topical Treatments

• Moisturizers: The cornerstone of eczema management — apply several times daily, especially after bathing.
• Corticosteroid creams: Reduce inflammation during flare-ups.
• Calcineurin inhibitors (Tacrolimus, Pimecrolimus): Useful for sensitive areas like the face and eyelids.
• Barrier repair creams: Strengthen the skin’s natural defense.

Phototherapy (Light Therapy)

Exposure to controlled ultraviolet light can reduce inflammation and itch in chronic cases.

Systemic Medications

For severe or resistant eczema:

• Antihistamines – control itching.
• Corticosteroids (oral or injectable) – for short-term relief.
• Biologics (Dupilumab) – target specific immune pathways involved in eczema.

Treating Infections

Open or scratched eczema can become infected; antibiotics may be prescribed if bacterial infection occurs.

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

Managing eczema requires daily discipline and gentle care.

Do’s:

• Moisturize religiously: Use thick, fragrance-free creams or ointments after every bath.
• Use mild, non-soap cleansers: Avoid harsh detergents or perfumed soaps.
• Bathe briefly: Use lukewarm water; avoid long, hot showers.
• Wear cotton fabrics: Soft, breathable clothes reduce irritation.
• Stay hydrated: Keeps skin supple from within.
• Manage stress: Yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises can reduce flare-ups.
• Keep nails short: Prevents damage from scratching.

Don’ts:

• Avoid scratching or rubbing the affected area.
• Limit exposure to dust, smoke, and chemical irritants.
• Avoid processed foods and sugary items during flare-ups.
• Don’t overuse steroid creams without medical supervision.

Diet and Nutrition: Supporting Skin from Within

• Anti-inflammatory foods: Add turmeric, fatty fish (omega-3), flaxseeds, and green leafy vegetables.
• Probiotics: Yogurt or fermented foods can support gut health, which influences inflammation.
• Avoid triggers: Keep a food diary to identify possible allergens.

Ayurveda also recognizes eczema as a manifestation of “Pitta–Kapha imbalance.” Herbs like Neem, Turmeric, Manjistha, and Aloe vera may help when used under professional guidance.

The Mind–Skin Connection

Emotional health plays a significant role.
Stress, anxiety, or depression can exacerbate eczema symptoms.
Practices such as mindfulness meditation, journaling, or even nature walks can help break the vicious stress–itch cycle.

Living Confidently with Eczema

While eczema may be a lifelong condition for some, most people can lead normal, confident lives with proper care.
Education, support, and self-compassion are key.

“Eczema does not define you. With awareness and consistency, healing is always possible — one layer at a time.”