Eczema Symptoms

The hallmark of eczema is the intense itch that is often unbearable.

Eczema can have different signs and symptoms depending on your age or even on the part of the body that is affected. In babies, the rash will often affect the fronts of the arms and legs, the cheeks, and the scalp. In older children and adults, often the neck, elbow creases, and backs of the legs are affected, although adults can also have eczema on their face, wrists, hands, and forearms. The skin can become thickened and darkened in adults and children, often as a result of scratching.

The hallmark of eczema is the intense itch that is often unbearable. The itch sometimes compels people to scratch their skin until the point of bleeding, and this then makes the rash worse, thereby leading to even more inflammation and itching. This process is known as the itch-scratch cycle, and the goal of your dermatologist is to help you break that cycle.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Eczema include:

  • Dry, sensitive skin

  • Intense itching

  • Red, inflamed skin

  • Recurring rash

  • Scaly areas

  • Rough, leathery patches

  • Oozing or crusting of skin 

  • Areas of swelling

  • Dark colored patches of skin