5 Dermatitis Types & Their Causes

Dermatitis is one of the most common skin conditions people face these days. Although there are various dermatitis types, one of the most common characteristics of each type is that the skin becomes red and itchy that might lead to blistering later. Quite a few of us find ourselves in this situation; our skin surface becomes reddish and itchy. This is what is known as contact dermatitis and the person faces this skin condition whenever he or she comes in touch with any foreign substance, for example, soap. However, this is quite a common skin condition and just one of the dermatitis types people from all parts of the world face and it can be treated quickly. You may get in touch with one of the dermatologists to get best dermatitis treatment in London, or in any part of the world where you’re living.

Although dermatitis is associated with rashes and redness, the causes often vary and so does the type of dermatitis one has developed. Let’s have a look at five dermatitis types and their causes.

Atopic Dermatitis

This type of dermatitis is characterised by redness, itchiness and fluid leak when the rashes are scratched. This dermatitis type usually starts developing in infancy itself and is more prominent in areas where the skin needs flexing – elbows, knee and even the front neck. Also known as eczema, this skin condition is genetic and may run from one generation to another, and is also associated with stress, asthma and allergies.

Contact Dermatitis

This is also one of the most common dermatitis types people from all over the world develop. Although it is quite difficult to tell exactly what causes contact dermatitis, it may be either due to allergens or due to irritants. The former is the case where a person’s skin develops an allergic reaction to a foreign substance, for example, soap. The body reacts by releasing inflammatory chemicals – making the skin itchy and sore. On the other hand, irritant contact dermatitis is caused when the skin comes in contact with any form of toxic substance.

Nummular Dermatitis

Nummular dermatitis is characterised by unique coin-shaped red plaques that develop on a person’s arms, legs, or torso. The main cause of nummular dermatitis is dryness in the skin which is often the result of having too hot showers; leaving the skin surface dry and devoid of any moisture. It has been more common in men as compared to women.

Seborrhoeic Dermatitis

The most common signs of seborrhoeic dermatitis are greasy, yellowish scaling on the scalp of body parts that are hairy in nature. However, it also has an effect on other areas of the body (especially the oily parts) such as the face, chest and arms as well. It is predominantly a long-term skin condition with periods of alternate remissions and followed-up by flare-ups.

Statis Dermatitis

This dermatitis type is caused due to insufficient blood flow in a person’s body. Therefore, the people who develop stasis dermatitis are the ones having varicose veins, congestive heart condition or similar health issues. The blood in lower body parts fails to return blood in an efficient manner – leading to a fluid build-up in the legs. This, after a period, turns into irritation and develops statis dermatitis.

Thus, there are a number of causes of dermatitis and each one develops a different dermatitis type; making it a skin condition that differs from one person to another. In such a scenario, it is an ideal thing to consult a dermatologist for best treatment of dermatitis. And before you go any further, you may get in touch with our HP Dermatology Centre specialists to get personalised advice on dermatitis today!