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TEJAL AJMERA PATEL
28 Years of experience Dermatology, Hair Specialist, Oncology, Pediatrics, Skin Specialist

You might think eczema is just dry, itchy skin. But in reality, eczema has many types, each with its own symptoms, triggers, and treatment needs. That’s why what works for one person might not work for another.

A 2023 report by the Indian Association of Dermatologists revealed that over 15% of people misdiagnose their eczema type, leading to flare-ups and long-term skin damage. Understanding the different eczema types can help you get the right treatment—and faster results.

What Is Eczema & Why It’s Not Just One Condition

Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can appear in different forms based on your triggers, environment, and immune system. Some types cause flaking and itching, while others result in blisters, oily patches, or hardened skin.

The key to managing eczema is knowing what type you have—and treating the root cause.

7 Most Common Types of Eczema

  1. Atopic Dermatitis
    • The most common type, often starting in childhood.
    • Red, itchy, dry skin.
    • Common on face, elbows, and knees.
    • Linked to asthma, hay fever, and genetics.
  2. Contact Dermatitis
    • Triggered by direct contact with an allergen or irritant.
    • Red rash, blisters, or burning sensation.
    • Caused by soaps, perfumes, metals, or plants.
  3. Seborrheic Dermatitis
    • Affects oily areas like the scalp, face, and chest.
    • Greasy, yellowish patches.
    • Commonly confused with dandruff.
  4. Dyshidrotic Eczema
    • Tiny, itchy blisters on palms, fingers, or soles.
    • More common in hot and humid climates.
    • Triggered by sweat or allergens.
  5. Nummular Eczema
    • Round, coin-shaped patches on legs, arms, or torso.
    • Itchy, crusty, and often mistaken for fungal infections.
    • May follow insect bites or skin injuries.
  6. Neurodermatitis
    • Often related to stress or anxiety.
    • Thick, leathery skin patches.
    • Intense scratching.
  7. Stasis Dermatitis
    • Occurs in the lower legs due to poor circulation and varicose veins.
    • Swelling, redness, and skin darkening.
    • Occasional ulcers.

What Triggers Different Eczema Types?

  • Stress: Especially in atopic and neurodermatitis
  • Heat & sweat: In dyshidrotic and summer eczema
  • Oily scalp or hormones: Seborrheic dermatitis
  • Contact with irritants: Soaps, cosmetics, metals
  • Food sensitivities: In children or atopic cases
  • Weather changes: Cold and dry air often worsen symptoms

Dr Batra’s® pro tip: Why Knowing Your Eczema Type Matters

"Treating the wrong type of eczema with the wrong approach can worsen things. For instance, moisturising seborrheic dermatitis can worsen oiliness, while skipping moisturiser in atopic eczema can cause flares. At Dr Batra’s®, we help patients find exactly their type and customise treatment accordingly."

Real Results of Hair Growth

Identify & Treat Your Eczema Type! Book a consultation now!

How to Get Diagnosed & Start the Right Treatment

  • Consult a skin specialist or homeopathic doctor
  • Take a detailed case history and symptom profile
  • Consider an eczema evaluation test
  • Keep a symptom diary to identify triggers
  • Begin a holistic treatment plan combining care, diet, and skin support

How Dr Batra’s® Treats Eczema Types Holistically

Our homeopathic treatment for eczema focuses on healing from within:

  • Personalised medicines to reduce itching, dryness, and inflammation
  • No steroids or harsh creams—safe for all age groups
  • AI-based skin diagnosis and progress tracking
  • Supportive guidance on eczema diet and skin care

Struggling with eczema? Get lasting relief! Book now!

Conclusion

  • Eczema is not a single condition—there are 7 common types
  • Triggers and symptoms vary for each type
  • Correct diagnosis leads to more effective treatment
  • Homeopathy offers safe, tailored relief for each eczema type
  • Dr Batra’s® helps you identify your type and treat the root cause

FAQs

Is Eczema The Same As Atopic Dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema. While all atopic dermatitis is eczema, not all eczema is atopic.

How Long Does Seborrheic Dermatitis Last On The Scalp?

It can be long-term or recurring, especially during stress or weather changes. Proper treatment helps manage it effectively.

What are the common symptoms of the different types of eczema?

Itching, redness, flaking, and dryness are common across types. Blisters or oily patches may occur in specific forms.

How do doctors test for different types of eczema?

They conduct a comprehensive clinical evaluation and review the patient's medical history, and in severe cases, a biopsy may be performed.

Is there anything I can do to lessen my symptoms?

Yes—manage stress, use fragrance-free skincare, follow a hydrating diet, and identify triggers.

What Is Considered As Severe Eczema?

Severe eczema (secondary eczema) involves constant itching, widespread redness, bleeding, and emotional distress—often needing ongoing medical support.

What are the 7 different types of eczema?

Atopic, Contact, Seborrheic, Dyshidrotic, Nummular, Neurodermatitis, and Stasis Dermatitis.

What is the difference between eczema and dermatitis?

People often use the terms eczema and dermatitis interchangeably, but “dermatitis” is a broader term that encompasses more than eczema rashes.

Can stress trigger eczema?

Yes. Stress disrupts the immune system, worsening itching, flares, and skin barrier function.

What lifestyle changes can help reduce eczema flare-ups?

Stay hydrated, eat antioxidant-rich foods, avoid irritants, and practice mindfulness or stress relief

Is seborrheic dermatitis the same as dandruff?

They’re related. Dandruff is a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis that primarily affects the scalp.