Atopic eczema is believed to be a hereditary condition, as it occurs often in families with a history of hay fever or asthma. It is characterized by an itchy rash that is quite prominent on face and scalp, neck, inside of elbows, behind knees, and buttocks.

There are two types of contact dermatitis. allergic, and irritant. Some substances can act both as allergen and irritant. Other substances may cause a problem after a certain amount of sunlight exposure, bringing on what is called phototoxic dermatitis. About three quarters of cases of contact eczema are from irritants. The best way to treat this is to remove any of these aggravating substances from the area in which you may come in contact with it.

Xerotic eczema results from an exceptionally bad case of dry skin. During the winter when skin will likely to become even drier is when this condition is at itEUR^(TM)s worst. Typically the torso and limbs are most effected by this condition. The itchy, tender skin resembles a dry, cracked, river bed. Senior citizens are especially vulnerable to this condition.

Seborrheic dermatitis causes dry or greasy scaling of the scalp and eyebrows. Scaly pimples and red patches sometimes appear in various adjacent places. In newborns it causes a thick, yellow crusty scalp rash called cradle cap which seems related to lack of biotin, and is often curable.