Are you suffering from swollen, dry, and reddish skin? It might not be the humidity or the heat causing these unpleasant sensations. What your skin is experiencing might be a case of dermatitis.
We’re here to talk about the meaning of dermatitis, its different types, its causes, and the steps you can take to prevent and treat it. But first, it’s important to understand what dermatitis is and how it can affect your skin.
Understanding Dermatitis
Dermatitis is a general term for skin irritation and inflammation and can refer to any temporary, non-contagious skin condition. Its physical effects are noticeable and may include the following:
- Skin itchiness and irritation that can range from mild to severe.
- Dry skin that leads to blisters, crusting, or flaking.
- Discolored rashes on swollen skin.
- Small and raised bumps that are more noticeable on darker skin tones.
- Thickened skin.
The symptoms of dermatitis can linger for a long period, depending on which type it is. For some people, symptoms can be seasonal or stress-induced.
Some types of dermatitis are more prevalent in children, while others are more evident in adults. The good news is that all types of dermatitis can be treated with different kinds of medication, topical creams, natural oils, or ointments.
What Are the Symptoms of Dermatitis?
While some signs of dermatitis can vary between people and on the affected body parts, there are general symptoms you can look out for, including:
- Skin rashes
- Blisters
- Dry and cracking skin
- Severe itchiness
- Stinging and burning sensations on your skin
- Redness
- Inflammation or swelling
Types and Causes of Dermatitis
Knowing what type of dermatitis you’re suffering from and its possible causes is the first step to getting the right treatment. In general, the causes of dermatitis will often involve a trigger that brings about a reaction in the skin. These triggers can be in any form of the following:
- Stress
- Hormonal imbalances, such as lack or excess
- Environment
- Irritants
Here are the different types of dermatitis and some of their more specific causes:
Atopic Dermatitis
Also known as eczema or skin asthma, this type of dermatitis is often chronic and hereditary. There are different types of skin asthma, but all of them cause rough patches of dry, red, and itchy skin. Even though atopic dermatitis is common in children, it can also occur at any age. Its common causes are dry skin, bad hygiene, and hypersensitivity. It can also be hereditary, so you have a higher risk if your family has a history of atopic dermatitis.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Also referred to as cradle cap for babies, this type of dermatitis primarily affects the scalp, although it can also affect the other parts of the body and cause dandruff, scaling, and reddish skin. The condition sometimes goes away on its own, but it can also be recurring. Its most common trigger is when Malassezia, a type of fungi often found on human and animal skin, becomes overgrown. It can also stem from increased oil production and a weakened immune system.
Contact Dermatitis
It occurs when your skin comes into contact with an irritant or an allergen and can be caused by any of, but are not limited to, the following:
- Laundry or washing detergents
- Cosmetic products
- Certain food
- Poison ivy and other similar plants
Dyshidrotic Dermatitis
This type of dermatitis refers to the hereditary skin condition that affects the skin on the hands and feet, causing bumps and blisters that grow together and cover large areas on the skin. These bumps and blisters are most often triggered by allergies or stress.
Neurodermatitis
This skin condition manifests itself through itchy patches of raised skin, which can be rough to the touch. It is a chronic condition that causes itching and scaling on the skin, usually on the neck, arms, legs, or anal region.
Nummular Dermatitis
This type of dermatitis is a chronic skin condition that involves coin-shaped spots on the skin, which can be itchy, fluid-filled, dry, and crusty. It usually occurs when the skin has been damaged, like a burn, insect bite, abrasion, or wound.
Stasis Dermatitis
A type of skin inflammation that develops due to poor blood circulation, this type of dermatitis results in swollen legs and feet. This condition can also result in itching, reddish skin, and open sores.
Dermatitis Neglecta
This type of skin condition occurs when a person is neglectful of their hygiene, allowing for the build up of scales on the skin over a considerable period of time.
Home Treatments for Dermatitis
As we mentioned earlier, some types of dermatitis clear up and leave on their own. However, this isn’t always the case, so we’ve provided a few methods on how to treat dermatitis on your own:
- Antihistamine or diphenhydramine to address allergies and itchiness
- Topical creams or herbal moisturizing lotions to relieve itching, swelling, and irritation
- Natural oils and extracts for dry skin
- Oatmeal or milk baths
- Applying damp and cool cloths for itching and discomfort
- Reducing stress levels
- Switching up your diet
- Taking vitamin D supplements and probiotics
When Should You See a Doctor for Dermatitis?
If you’ve tried every home remedy for skin rashes and dermatitis but all of them have failed, it may be time to consult a doctor. If you’re still unsure about the right time to pay your doctor a visit for dermatitis, here are some factors that can help you decide:
- Constant discomfort that leads to insomnia and stress, preventing you from doing anything productive
- Unbearable pain
- Signs of infection
- Persistent symptoms despite exhausting all available treatment options
Preventing Dermatitis
Knowing the causes and risk factors for dermatitis is the first step to preventing it. However, skin conditions like eczema are chronic, so the next best thing is preventing flare-ups from happening.
Here are some ways to help prevent dermatitis from taking away your zest in life:
- Avoid scratching the affected area and spreading the bacteria elsewhere on your body
- Address dry skin by using natural or herbal moisturizing soaps and shampoos when bathing
- Regularly apply moisturizers to keep your skin from drying up and getting irritated
Herbal Skincare Products for Dermatitis Prevention
The potential of moringa oil, olive oil, and sunflower oil cannot be denied, as they contain powerful antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals like omega, good fatty acids, and protein. Herbal skincare products with these ingredients can protect and repair skin cells, as well as address hair, scalp, and skin problems.
Only the Finest Care for Your Skin
Your skin deserves love, care, and comfort. If dermatitis is a constant problem for you, know that relief and treatments are possible with the right blend of natural nourishment and self-care. Choose the best for your skin and explore what we have to offer at Moringa-O2.
