Eczema is the name for a group of noncontagious conditions that causes the skin to become dry, itchy, inflamed, or have a rash-like appearance. Eczema is common in children — a 2018 study suggests it is the most common childhood skin condition, while other evidence notes it affects roughly a quarter of children in the United States.
Many people often use the word “eczema” when referring to atopic dermatitis, the type of eczema that most commonly affects children. The term “atopic” refers to conditions involving the immune system, while dermatitis refers to inflammation of the skin.
Is eczema different in different ages?
Eczema’s appearance varies slightly across different age groups. While the condition can develop on any area of the skin at any age, it is more likely to appear in certain areas depending on a person’s age.
Infants
In babies, eczema typically forms on the scalp and face, particularly the cheeks, and often presents as a dry, raw, scaly rash. It may also appear on the elbows and knees. Symptoms of itching may come and go, and in some cases, the skin may bubble up and weep fluid.
Infants rarely develop atopic dermatitis in the diaper area, as the skin typically stays too moist. A diaper rash is more likely to result from irritant contact dermatitis.
Children
When eczema develops in children between 2 years of age and puberty, it typically begins as itchy and scaly patches in areas such as the creases of the elbows and knees. It may also occur on the neck, wrists, ankles, and crease between the buttocks and legs.
Over time, the skin may change in appearance, causing it to become bumpy, discolored, and thicker, which may result in the skin becoming persistently itchy.
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