If you’ve ever wondered whether eczema and dermatitis are the same thing, you’re not alone. These terms are often used interchangeably - by doctors, dermatologists and skincare brands alike - which can be confusing when you’re just trying to understand what’s going on with your skin.
Here’s the short answer: eczema is a type of dermatitis but not all dermatitis is eczema.
In this guide, we’ll break down the difference between eczema and dermatitis, explore their symptoms and triggers and share practical, skin-friendly ways to manage both - especially if you’re dealing with dry, itchy or inflamed skin.
What’s the Difference Between Eczema and Dermatitis?
Think of dermatitis as a broad term - it simply means inflammation of the skin. There are many types of dermatitis, caused by everything from allergies to irritants and even infections.
Eczema (also called atopic dermatitis) is a specific, chronic type of dermatitis. It often runs in families and it’s closely linked to allergies, asthma and other inflammatory conditions.
To put it simply:
➜ Dermatitis = inflammation of the skin caused by many possible triggers.
➜ Eczema = a long-term, inflammatory skin condition with dryness, itching and flare-ups.
Do Eczema and Dermatitis Look the Same?
They can, which is why it’s tricky to tell them apart without a proper diagnosis. Here are symptoms that both eczema and other types of dermatitis can share:
Common Symptoms
➜ Redness or inflammation
➜ Itchiness
➜ Dry or flaky patches
➜ Cracked or weepy skin
➜ Swelling or sensitivity
Common Triggers
➜ Harsh soaps and detergents
➜ Cold, dry weather or heat
➜ Allergens like fragrance, pollen, pet dander or dust mites
➜ Stress (yep, it’s a big one)
Types of Eczema (All Under the Dermatitis Umbrella)
Not all eczema is the same. There are several forms, each with their own unique pattern and trigger:
➜ Atopic Dermatitis
The most common type of eczema. It often starts in childhood and tends to be long-term.
Symptoms: Intense itching, dry patches, inflammation.
Common Areas: Face, hands, inside elbows, behind knees.
Common Triggers: Allergens, stress, temperature changes.
➜ Contact Dermatitis
Triggered when your skin touches something irritating or allergenic.
Symptoms: Red, itchy rash that appears shortly after exposure.
Common Triggers: Cleaning products, metals (like nickel), fragrances.
➜ Dyshidrotic Eczema
Shows up as tiny, itchy blisters—usually on hands and feet.
Symptoms: Fluid-filled blisters, pain or burning.
Common Triggers: Stress, moisture, metals like cobalt or nickel.
➜ Nummular Eczema
Round, coin-shaped spots of inflamed skin.
Symptoms: Dry, itchy, circular patches.
Common Triggers: Cold weather, skin injury, irritants.
Types of Dermatitis (Beyond Eczema)
While eczema is a type of dermatitis, other forms exist that don’t fall under the eczema category:
➜ Seborrheic Dermatitis
Often found in oily areas like the scalp, nose, or chest.
Symptoms: Greasy, scaly patches and dandruff.
Triggers: Hormones, stress, overgrowth of yeast.
➜ Perioral Dermatitis
Affects the area around the mouth and sometimes eyes or nose.
Symptoms: Red bumps, dryness and irritation.
Common Triggers: Overuse of steroid creams or fragranced skincare products.
➜ Irritant Contact Dermatitis
Caused by direct damage to the skin’s surface.
Symptoms: Red, burning or stinging skin.
Common Triggers: Harsh chemicals or frequent handwashing.
How to Treat and Manage Eczema & Dermatitis Naturally
Whatever type you’re dealing with, your skin barrier needs support. These tips help calm inflammation, prevent flare-ups and restore skin health.
Choose Gentle, Skin-Friendly Products
➜ Use fragrance-free, barrier-boosting skincare that's gentle and pH skin-friendly.
➜ Avoid soaps or ingredients that strip natural oils.
➜ Look for formulas with ceramides, zinc, aloe vera or colloidal oatmeal to nourish, protect and restore the skin barrier.
➜ Consider starting a food diary to help identify any potential triggers. Not sure what to eat or avoid? Read our blog post: The Best Diet for Eczema – Foods to Eat and Avoid.
Moisturise (Often!)
➜ Moisturising is essential. Apply at least twice a day - especially after bathing - to lock in hydration and support your skin barrier. Bodyguard, our biome-boosting moisturising lotion, is designed for daily use on compromised, sensitive skin. It doesn’t just deliver intense hydration; the addition of pre- and postbiotics actively helps rebalance your skin’s microbiome for healthier, friendlier skin over time.
Avoid Long, Hot Showers
➜ Stick to lukewarm water and short baths or showers (10 mins max).
➜ Add colloidal oatmeal to your bath for extra relief.
Identify and Avoid Triggers
➜ Track what sets your skin off - whether it’s a detergent, pollen, stress or a certain fabric. Simple swaps can make a big difference.
Practice Stress Relief
➜ Stress can fuel flare-ups. Try gentle movement, deep breathing or getting outdoors to support your skin and mind.
➜ Curious about other ways to calm your nervous system and support mental wellness? Read our article on Glimmers – How Small Joys Reduce Stress, Ease Anxiety and Help Your Skin.
When to See a Dermatologist
You don’t have to figure it out alone. Book a professional consult if:
➜ Your skin is weeping, crusty or painful
➜ Over-the-counter care isn’t working
➜ Flare-ups are frequent or worsening
A dermatologist can diagnose the exact type of eczema or dermatitis you have - and help build a treatment plan tailored to you.
At Salvida®, we believe in skin that feels good, not just looks good. That’s why our barrier-supporting formulas are made for sensitive, eczema-prone skin - tested, trusted and designed to deliver relief where it matters most.
Salvida® friendly skin