Types of Eczema

General allergic over-sensitivity, called atopy also known as atopic eczema. Atopic eczema is linked with asthma and hay fever, which are conditions of the immune system. These conditions are often passed down through the generations of a family.

Contact with substances that irritate the skin chemically, called irritant contact eczema. This is caused by direct contact between the skin and the substance, which might be a detergent, soap, diesel or engine oil, strong chemicals in household cleaners, acids, alkaline mixtures, detergents, etc. and various other chemicals that acutely inflame the skin. The condition can become chronic with repeated exposure. This form of eczema is often encountered in the workplace. Direct irritant contact eczema can occur at the first exposure. For example, most people will develop this form of eczema on first exposure to strong chemicals that are acid or alkaline in nature.

Contact with substances that sensitize the skin, leading to acute inflammation when re-exposure occurs is called allergic contact eczema. This type commonly involves nickel, poison ivy, cosmetics, and rubber products. Prior exposure to the irritant allergen is necessary for allergic contact eczema to occur.

Exposure to sunlight as well as certain medications that cause photosensitivity can result in light sensitive eczema.

Infants exposed to moisture from drool or those that have inflammation of the scalp (cradle cap) can develop infantile eczema.

Varicose veins can lead to a form of eczema affecting the lower legs, called stasis eczema. This is also known as varicose or gravitational eczema.