Top 7 Causes for Eczema

Eczema is very common in children but it can affect adults too. There are many types of eczema but the most common type of atopic dermatitis.
Each type has certain causes. Here are the top 7 types of eczema and the causes of each type.

7. Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema. It occurs when the skin’s natural protective barrier becomes weaker, which makes it more vulnerable to allergens and toxins. Dry skin, genetics, weak immune system, and environmental factors may also trigger atopic dermatitis. (1, 2, 3, 4)

6. Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis occurs when your skin comes in contact with an irritating substance that may cause an allergic reaction. Detergents, bleach, jewelry, latex, nickel, paint, poison ivy, skincare products, including makeup, soaps, perfumes, solvents, and tobacco smoke are the most common irritants causing contact dermatitis. (5, 6, 7, 8, 9)

5. Dyshidrotic Eczema

Dyshidrotic eczema results in small blisters on the hands and feet. It usually affects women more than men. It can result from allergies, damp hands and feet, irritant substances such as cobalt, chromium salt, and nickel, and chronic stress. (10, 11, 12)

4. Hand Eczema

This type of eczema affects only the hands. Hands usually get in contact with irritants. Some jobs require regular contact with irritating chemicals such as cleaning, hairdressing, healthcare, and dry cleaning. (13, 14, 15, 16, 17)

3. Neurodermatitis

This form of eczema is similar to atopic dermatitis. Its thick, scaly patches appear nearly everywhere on the body including arms, legs, genitals, scalp, and neck. It is common in people who have other forms of eczema or suffer from psoriasis. The main underlying causes are not known but stress can be one of the triggering factors. (18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23)

2. Nummular Eczema

Nummular means coin in Latin. The coin-shaped spots on the skin are very unique. The main cause of this form is an allergic reaction to insect bites, chemicals, or metals. Dry skin and having previous forms of eczema are also predisposing factors. (24, 25, 26, 27)

1. Stasis Dermatitis

This form of eczema occurs when there are weak veins in the skin and fluids get out of them causing redness, hotness, pain, and swelling. It is common in people with blood flow issues, especially in the lower limbs. (28, 29, 30, 31)