In a world where skincare concerns are as common as a morning cup of coffee, it's easy to get lost in the maze of terminology. Although it’s a very common skin condition , there is still a lot to discover. Eczema is a very vast terminology leading many to mix "eczema" and "dermatitis".

With up to 18.6% of children/adolescents being affected by eczema, understanding both skin infection and their difference is important.

What Is Eczema?

Eczema is a condition where the skin gets irritated and symptoms appear of dry, red, bumpy or oh-so-itchy skin with rashes.

From infants younger than 1 year old to older kids and teens, eczema knows no age limits, cropping up in the most unexpected places: face, neck, elbows, inner wrists, knees, ankles and even the scalp!

What causes eczema you would ask me, according to doctors, many skin allergies are a result of weakening someone's immune system.

How is Eczema Treated?

There is no fixed cure for eczema but doctors recommend different treatments.

Moisturisers - If you have eczema then you should moisturise your skin more often, at least two or three times a day. The best time to apply moisturiser is after a shower, on dry skin. The use of body lotions is recommended as formulas contain more water.

Corticosteroids - Corticosteroids are also known as cortisone or steroid creams that ease skin inflammation. Steroids should not be taken lightly, prescriptions are personalised and depend on each patient and skin types. Using the wrong dosage on sensitive areas can damage the skin, especially in infants.

Anti-inflammatory medicines - It includes medicines that change the way the skin's immune system reacts.

Tablets - These anti-allergy medicines help itchy skin to calm. Antibiotics might be needed if a rash gets infected by bacteria.

Other popular treatments are - Phototherapy, wet wraps, bleach baths

What is Dermatitis?

Dermatitis—a fancy term for itchy, inflamed skin—refers to a group of inflammatory conditions characterised by epidermal changes such as dry, flaking or dandruff, swollen skin, blisters, rash or bumps in hair follicles.

From cheeky children to middle-aged or older adults, dermatitis doesn't discriminate, making its presence known on face, hands, wrists, knees, feet, and even fingertips. 

How is Dermatitis Treated?

Few tips,

- Use emollients or 100% natural liquid soap for every day bathing, showering or hand washing

- Use paste bandages which help penetrate the skin, soothe and reduce skin trauma. 

Decoding Your Skin Condition

Eczema, dermatitis—two sides of the same coin, each with its unique quirks and triggers.  

Eczema refers to a group of conditions that cause inflamed skin with atopic dermatitis being the most common type.

Each form of eczema has its own set of triggers and treatment requirements, and seeking advice of a healthcare professional who specialises in treating eczema is crucial. Dermatologists can help identify which type of eczema you may have and how to treat and prevent flare-ups by creating a customised treatment plan. A dermatologist can also identify the cause of your eczema, whether it’s due to family history, environmental factors, or a mix of both.

The best way to protect your skin is to use 100% natural skincare skincare like MaGéAu Naturel which has no harmful ingredients like sulphates or parabens and is completely safe to use. 

Visit our website today and treat your skin to the love it deserves. Your skin will thank you!

Note: Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any question you may have regarding a medical condition.