Understanding Dermatitis & Eczema

Dermatitis is a broad term describing skin inflammation, characterised by changes in the function and structure of the skin's epidermis. There are several types of dermatitis, with severity ranging from mild to severe.

Although the terms eczema and dermatitis are often used interchangeably, eczema specifically refers to inflammatory skin conditions caused by a combination of genetic predisposition, immune system activation, environmental triggers, and stress. When the skin barrier is compromised, it becomes more vulnerable to allergens and irritants, triggering an immune response that results in painful, inflamed patches.

Effective management of eczema and dermatitis focuses on relieving active flare-ups, restoring the skin's integrity against environmental triggers, and reducing the frequency and severity of future episodes.