Eczema is a rash like skin condition. It is a condition in which the skin becomes red, itchy dry and even painful. Eczema occurs in childhood and adults, and most commonly occurs in infants. It is estimated that about 10 to 25 percent of all infants have Eczema.

Commonly found in the creases of the elbows, waists and behind the knees, Eczema is not contagious and like many diseases no real cure has been found out yet. Eczema may look different from person to person, but the most common characteristic is the dry, red extremely itchy patch on the skin. Developing in childhood, Eczema fades away when one grows old. But there are chances that it flares up when they are adult.

There are different kinds of Eczema and the most common ones are the Atopic and Contact Eczema. Atopic Eczema also called Atopic dermatitis, which has a hereditary component, is commonly noticeable on the face, scalp, neck, inside of the elbows and behind the knees. The contact Eczema occurs when when substances or chemicals irritate the skin and cause an allergic reaction. The Xerotic Eczema which is common in older people is found in the limbs and trunk. Dyshidrosis or house wife's Eczema is occurs on the palms, soles, fingers and toes. The other types are venous Eczema , Neurodermatitis and Autoaczematisation.

Easy to diagnosis, Blood tests and biopsy are not always needed to detect Eczema. The inflamed, itchy skin makes it easy to detect. Till now the exact cause of Eczema is unknown. It is said that Eczema is caused because of an overactive response by the body's immune system to a bacterium that normally lives on the skin or an irritant. Eczema is commonly found in families with a history of allergies.

The medial science is yet to find a way to cure Eczema. But still there are treatment methods for this. The best way is to avoid the things that trigger your skin. Avoid the things that can irritate your skin. Sometimes cleansers, detergents, harsh soaps and lotions could irritate the skin. Normally people with Eczema have a tendency to scratch the skin. The most important thing is to prevent scratching. Lotions and creams can be applied on the skin which can give you relief from itching. There are hundreds of lotions and creams in the market and only go for the best natural & organic skin care products. It is better to consult the doctor before you use these lotions and creams. Soaps and hard detergents should be avoided as it can strip the natural skin oils and make your skin excessive dry. If there is no relief from itching even after the lotions and creams, then consult a doctor and he would prescribe anti-itching drugs.

Some foods could also trigger allergy and it is better that you avoid these foods. The best ways to manage or control Eczema is to avoid sudden changes in temperature or humidity, avoid getting too hot and sweaty, manage stress and avoid known triggers.

Eczema can also be controlled or managed to some extent by Light Therapy using Ultra Violet Lights. Traditional herbal medicines are also in vogue for Eczema. No proper treatment has been found for Eczema and the best way is to prevent the things that could trigger allergies in the skin.