Dermatitis Subtypes Explained

Understanding dermatitis and why the type matters

“Dermatitis” is a broad medical term describing inflammation of the skin. It is not one single condition. Different subtypes behave differently, respond to different treatments, and affect day-to-day comfort in unique ways. Understanding the main patterns helps you recognise when simple care may help and when review with your GP is important.

Atopic dermatitis (eczema)

Atopic dermatitis is a long-term, relapsing condition often linked with allergic tendency, asthma, or hay fever. It commonly begins in childhood but may persist or return later in life. Skin becomes dry, itchy, cracked, and inflamed, often worse in skin folds, on the hands, face, and behind the knees. Flares may relate to irritants, illness, stress, dry weather, or allergens. Because the skin barrier is affected, care focuses on moisturising, barrier repair, itch control, and guided anti-inflammatory treatment when required.

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis occurs when skin reacts to something touching it. Irritant contact dermatitis develops from ongoing exposure to soaps, detergents, wet work, chemicals, or friction. Allergic contact dermatitis happens when the immune system reacts to a specific trigger such as fragrance, preservatives, metals, hair dye, adhesives, or rubber compounds. The rash usually appears where contact occurred and may sting, burn, itch, or become red, flaky, or blistered. Identifying and reducing exposure to the trigger makes the biggest difference.

Seborrhoeic dermatitis

Seborrhoeic dermatitis affects oily or hair-bearing areas such as the scalp, eyebrows, beard area, sides of the nose, and chest. It may cause redness, flaky scale, and itch or stubborn “dandruff.” It often flares in cycles. It is not caused by poor hygiene. Treatment focuses on calming inflammation, supporting scalp health, and managing yeast activity on the skin surface.

Stasis (venous) dermatitis

Stasis dermatitis develops when poor blood flow in the lower legs leads to swelling and irritation. It is more common in older adults or people with varicose veins or circulation issues. Skin on the lower legs may become itchy, fragile, discoloured, or thickened, and ulcers may form if untreated. Managing circulation and protecting the skin are key to safer long-term leg health.

Important safety note about infection

Any dermatitis can become infected if the skin barrier is damaged. Seek review if skin becomes weepy, crusted, increasingly painful, swollen, or associated with fever or feeling unwell.

When to see your GP

See your GP if a rash is persistent, spreading, painful, keeps returning, interferes with sleep or daily life, or appears infected. Seek earlier assessment for infants, older adults, people with reduced immunity, or anyone whose rash is accompanied by fever or sudden illness.

How your GP supports diagnosis and care

Your GP considers when symptoms began, what worsens or improves them, exposures at work and home, health history, and past treatments. Examination helps distinguish dermatitis from other skin conditions. Treatment differs between people, is carefully individualised, and may include moisturising, reducing triggers, calming inflammation, and occasionally referral to dermatology. The goal is comfort, clarity, and safer long-term control—not just short-term relief.

A culturally safe note about skin appearance

Dermatitis can look different on darker skin tones, sometimes appearing darker, greyer, or purplish rather than bright red. This difference is normal. If something does not look right to you, seeking review remains appropriate and supported.

A reassuring message

Dermatitis is common, manageable, and treatable. Understanding the subtype helps guide better care and prevents unnecessary distress.

This article provides general health information only and does not replace medical advice. Please speak with your GP for personalised care.