Atopic Dermatitis vs. Eczema: Is There a Distinction?

Purple, itchy, and scaly skin from atopic dermatitis and eczema will be uncomfortable, complicated, and all too acquainted. These continual (that means they’ll final a very long time) inflammatory circumstances can seem in childhood or stay dormant till maturity, with a large scale of severity alongside the best way.

“Upon getting atopic dermatitis, you should have it for all times, although signs could not at all times be prevalent,” dermatologist Corey L. Hartman, MD, tells PS. Whereas it might sound bleak, these long-term pores and skin circumstances are frequent and completely manageable — each at residence and in a derm’s workplace.

So, what is the distinction between atopic dermatitis and eczema? We have tapped the specialists to interrupt down all the pieces it’s essential to learn about these pores and skin circumstances. Preserve studying to study extra in regards to the signs and how you can deal with them.

Consultants Featured in This Article

Corey L. Hartman, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founding father of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, AL.

Naana Boakye, MD, MPH, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founding father of Bergen Dermatology in Englewood Cliffs, NJ.

What Is Eczema?

The phrases atopic dermatitis and eczema are used considerably interchangeably as a result of they’re finally a part of the identical household. “Eczema is a common time period for inflammatory pores and skin circumstances. And atopic dermatitis is a selected type of and the most typical kind of eczema,” dermatologist Naana Boakye, MD, says. It is a widespread situation, affecting one in 10 folks, in line with the National Eczema Association, that spans all ages, ethnicities, and pores and skin colours.

It is essential to notice that eczema may also be an umbrella time period that refers to circumstances like dermatitis, discoid eczema, and dyshidrotic eczema.

What Is Atopic Dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis as a kind of eczema that seems as itchy patches of dry pores and skin. These patchy lesions usually pop up on the arms and the backs of the legs, with colours ranging between purple and brown relying in your pores and skin coloration. The pores and skin could crack, flake, or thicken (often known as lichenification). The situation is mostly seen amongst youngsters, although adults can actually be affected as nicely. And it is typically hereditary. “If one dad or mum has atopic dermatitis, there’s a 50 p.c probability that their youngster can have it,” Dr. Boakye says.

Atopic dermatitis has one other little household of its personal, alongside allergic rhinoconjunctivitis and bronchial asthma; they’re referred to as the atopic triad.

What Causes Atopic Dermatitis and Eczema?

Regardless of being widespread, the precise reason for atopic dermatitis is unknown — although there’s rising perception that it might start as an autoimmune situation, in line with a research printed within the British Journal of Dermatology. Per Dr. Boakye, the causes of atopic dermatitis or eczema can “be advanced and contain genetics and environmental elements that result in pores and skin and immune system disruption.” For instance, a household historical past of bronchial asthma or allergic reactions (like hay fever) can improve the prevalence of atopic dermatitis.

Eczema flare-ups may also be triggered by exterior elements (chilly climate, mould, and pollen) or irritants like cigarette smoke and sure fragrances. And final however not least, overdoing it on skincare may also be problematic. “Broken pores and skin obstacles can even contribute to irritation-prone pores and skin,” Dr. Boakye says.

What Are the Signs of Atopic Dermatitis and Eczema?

Irritation is the most typical symptom. It generally manifests as purple, itchy, or dry pores and skin — with swelling frequent in additional average instances. “In extreme instances, the pores and skin could develop a rash which will bleed when scratched or could ooze or secrete a transparent fluid,” Dr. Hartman says. If you’re experiencing persistent irritation, a visit to the dermatologist may also help present readability and a course of remedy.

How Can You Deal with Atopic Dermatitis and Eczema?

Earlier than you’ll be able to precisely deal with atopic dermatitis, dermatologists consider it is essential to know and keep away from your triggers. “Keep away from meals that may trigger an inflammatory response within the physique, like citrus and sure spices like cinnamon and cloves,” Dr. Hartman says, including that “alcohol can even set off atopic dermatitis signs.”

This might imply shifting your way of life to cut back stress, improve train, and eat a extra healthful weight loss plan, or adjusting your routine to moisturize instantly after showers/baths and transition to light, fragrance-free merchandise. Dr. Hartman recommends including inflammation-fighting steps to your skin-care routine.

“There may be proof to recommend that red-light phototherapy may also help deal with indicators of atopic dermatitis,” he says.

For average to extreme instances, Dr. Boakye notes that remedies might embody topical steroids, nonsteroidals, biologics, or phototherapy. When unsure, your derm will know what’s greatest for you.

Hannah Cassidy is a PS contributor.