This article waslast modified on 10 July 2017.

Inflammation of the outer layers of the skin. There are three main groups of eczema. Atopic eczema is a broad allergic reaction similar to hay fever and asthma. Seborrhoeic eczema is a life-long condition often described as cradle cap in infants or dandruff in adults. Contact dermatitis occurs after irritation (often from chemical substances) or as a specific allergic reaction (often to metals such as nickel).  The most common treatments are moisturisers and steroid creams/ointments.