People with eczema tend to have dry, itchy and easily irritated skin. This can continue for years and may result in damage to the skin. They may have times when their skin is clear and other times when they have rash.

• In infants and small children, the rash is often present on the skin around the knees and elbows and the cheeks.

• In teenagers and adults, the rash is often present in the creases of the wrists, elbows, knees or ankles, and on the face or neck.

There are many things that worsen the itching and rash of eczema (atopic dermatits). These are different for each person. It's important to work closely with your healthcare provider to try to figure out what makes your itching, rash, and other symptoms worse.

This information has been approved by  Mark Boguniewicz, MD (March 2009).