Eczema and dermatitis are two very common 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 give you some helpful tips and take a closer look at the skin condition itself.

Dermatitis

The term "dermatitis" refers 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, without a specific context, dermatitis just refers to a rash on the skin.

Eczema

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

*redness

*itching sensation and skin dryness

*skin edema (swelling)

More severe cases of eczema may present:

*oozing and/or bleeding

*crusting, flaking, blistering, and 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. Every person has a different set of triggers. Regardless of this, some common triggers include contact with harsh ingredients and scratchy 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. If you have problems with scratchy clothing you should avoid them and buy clothing that is made with softer fibers. Prefer clothing made with cotton and linen fibers instead of spending money on clothing made from wool.

If your flare-ups are caused by heat and humidity, try to avoid areas that have both. Stay in shady areas and away from open flames. When you exercise, do so in an open, well ventilated area.

Sipping cool water during the summer and in hot rooms can also help control your body's core temperature. This will make it less likely that you develop an eczema flare-up.

You can also help alleviate your eczema and reduce the number of flare-ups by changing your skin care routine. 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

You should always look for products that are fragrance and alcohol free and steer clear of products containing cinnamon, menthol and ylang-ylang. A good dry skin lotion can also help soothe dry skin problems that often accompany eczema.