Eczema

June 10, 2025

Eczema is one of the most common and complex skin diseases, varying in types, symptoms, and causes, making understanding it essential for anyone who suffers from it or cares about skin care. In this guide, we provide you with everything you need to know about eczema symptoms, the appearance of eczema, and the most important methods of treating seborrheic eczema on the face, to help you take effective steps towards healthy and clear skin.

What is Eczema?

Eczema is not a single skin disease, but rather a group of skin conditions that lead to skin inflammation, irritation, dryness, and itching. Eczema types vary between atopic eczema, contact eczema, and seborrheic eczema, each with different causes and symptoms.

Eczema Symptoms

Common Eczema Symptoms

Eczema symptoms vary depending on the type and severity, but there are basic signs that most types of eczema share, including:

Severe itching: Itching is the most prominent and bothersome symptom of eczema for those affected.
Skin redness: The skin appears red or pink in the affected areas.
Dry skin: The skin is dry and rough to the touch, with peeling on the outer layer.
Cracked skin: With constant itching, fine cracks may appear in the skin.
Inflammation or swelling: In advanced cases, localized swelling may appear with heat and pain.
Dark or discolored spots: Over time, the skin's pigment changes in the affected area.
Fluid discharge or crust formation: Especially in severe eczema cases.

Symptoms vary from person to person and may fluctuate in severity from time to time, so it is essential to monitor the skin continuously for early intervention.

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The Appearance of Eczema

What Does Eczema Look Like on the Skin?

The appearance of eczema varies depending on its type and location. However, in general, the skin appears as red or pink patches, which may be covered with scales or blisters, accompanied by severe itching. Here are the most prominent forms in which eczema appears:

Dry eczema: Where the skin is cracked and rough, without blisters or secretions.
Weeping eczema: Characterized by the appearance of blisters containing fluids, which may lead to crust formation.
Allergic eczema: Accompanied by swelling and increased skin sensitivity.
Seborrheic eczema: The skin appears shiny, oily to the touch, with yellow or white scales, often in the face and scalp areas.

Accurately identifying the form of eczema contributes to choosing the appropriate treatment.

Seborrheic Eczema: An In-Depth Look

What is Seborrheic Eczema?

Seborrheic eczema (Seborrheic Dermatitis) is a common type of eczema that affects areas rich in sebaceous glands, such as the scalp, face, eyebrows, ears, and chest. It is sometimes known as "seborrheic dermatitis."

Its causes are believed to be related to a combination of factors such as:

Overactivity of the sebaceous glands.
The presence of natural fungi on the skin (such as Malassezia).
Stress and psychological pressure.
Genetic factors and hormonal changes.

Symptoms of Seborrheic Eczema

Symptoms of seborrheic eczema include:

Yellow or white greasy scales that accumulate around the eyebrows, sides of the nose, behind the ears, and scalp.
Skin redness, especially in areas prone to oiliness.
Itching, which increases with sweating or high temperatures.
Dry skin in other areas of the face or body.

Distinguishing between seborrheic eczema and other types of eczema is necessary for accurate diagnosis.

Treating Seborrheic Eczema on the Face

Medical Methods for Treating Seborrheic Eczema on the Face

When discussing treating seborrheic eczema on the face, it is important to follow a comprehensive treatment plan based on identifying the cause and relieving symptoms, including:

Medical Shampoos:

Such as shampoos containing ketoconazole or pyrithione zinc, used gently on the face once or twice a week.

Antifungal Creams:

Such as creams containing ketoconazole or ciclopirox, eliminate fungi associated with seborrheic eczema.

Topical Corticosteroids:

Used in low concentrations and for short periods to reduce inflammation and redness.

Topical Immunomodulators:

Such as tacrolimus or pimecrolimus, used in cases where cortisone is not preferred, especially on the face.

Gentle Cleansers:

Using non-soap face washes, free of fragrances to reduce irritation.

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Daily Care and Prevention

The preventive aspect is no less important than treatment, and the most important steps can be summarized as follows:

Clean the skin regularly using alcohol- and fragrance-free products.
Avoid heavy oily products that may exacerbate the condition.
Stay away from triggers such as stress, excessive sweating, or weather changes.
Follow a healthy diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 acids.
Adhere to the treatment routine and consult a doctor if symptoms worsen.

The Difference Between Seborrheic Eczema and Atopic Eczema

It is important to differentiate between seborrheic eczema and atopic eczema. The former is often chronic, appears in specific areas such as the scalp and face, and is accompanied by greasy scales. The latter appears on the hands, behind the knees, and in the elbows, and is often accompanied by severe dryness and a family history of allergies.

When Should You See a Doctor?

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