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Eczema is a recurring inflammation of the skin. It usually begins in childhood , appearing within the first six months of life. It can continue through adolescence and into adulthood. Although some children may outgrow the condition, about 80% of those affected will have dry, irritable skin throughout life.

Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is actually a group skin conditions which cause inflammation and usually itching of the skin. A description of each type and its symptoms follows.

(1.) Contact dermatitis. This is the most common type of skin inflammation. It is a temporary reaction to an irritant or an allergen. It appears as a dry, red rash, sometimes with a discharge. An example of this type is the rash resulting from contact with poison ivy.

(2.) Atopic dermatitis. This is the most common form of chronic eczema. It is caused by an inherited over-sensitivity of the immune system. Allergies often cause its victims to suffer from hay fever and asthma as well. This type will affect up to 20% of people at some point in their lives.

It most often appears as red, itchy, dry skin in the areas behind the knees, around the elbows, and on the face. In babies, it may appear on the scalp, neck, chest and face. Some children will outgrow this type of eczema.

(3.)Seborrheic dermatitis. It is eczema of the scalp. Mild cases are known as dandruff in adults and cradle cap in infants. Its exact cause is unknown, but it appears to be linked to a yeast which inhabits most human scalps. Contributing factors may be genetics, stress and other unknown elements.

(4.) Dyshidrotic dermatitis. Blisters arise on the palms of the hands, the sides of the fingers, and the soles of the feet. The skin may crack and peel and there will be an itch or a burning sensation.

(5.) Nummular eczema. It normally affects older adults, and tends to strike dry skin. It often starts with an injury to the skin, ( a burn, scrape or cut ). Itchy, red coin-shaped areas with discharge appear on the limbs and torso. This type of dermatitis is more prominent in winter.

(6.) Stasis dermatitis. This type affects the lower legs of older adults. It is caused by poor circulation; the blood is unable to flow freely out of the legs. The underlying cause is varicose veins. This dermatitis appears as inflamed, scaly skin around the lower legs and ankles. Over time, the area may turn dark brown.

(7.) Neurodermatitis. This eczema is not allergy-related, and often appears in times of stress. It will not clear up quickly and may

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