The skin can break out in rash-like patches that come and go. The rash can become red and inflamed with blisters that may leak fluid. If scratched open, it will spread to other areas.

Yuk! So, please don't scratch.

With my priceless home remedies you will be feeling better and you will be cleared up no time!

The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition describes eczema as a non-contagious inflammation of the skin characterized by redness, itching, and lesions that break open with a clear discharge which becomes encrusted and scaly.

Certain things can cause a breakout such as:

Soaps with fragrant or perfume, alcohol or perfumed lotions hot, sweaty skin, dry indoor air or wintry air with little moisture,itchy clothing such as wool, dust mites in bed sheets, pollen, mold, mildew, or animal dander, latex (my worst enemy) or rubber gloves, certain jewelry (another culprit of mine), and tobacco smoke. In addition, some foods with a tomato base, or certain dairy foods, nutrient deficiencies especially vitamins A and B-6, zinc, magnesium, iron and essential fatty acids and emotional stress.

There are several types that will have different symtoms and causes.

Atopic Eczema is the most common type. Atopy means a family history or predisposition to allergy conditions such as hay fever, asthma and eczema. Runny noses and sneezing, from the allergies, can trigger flare ups.

Allergic Contact Eczema develops when a person's skin has a chemical reaction to contact with a substance.

Irritant Contact Eczema is caused by contact with soaps, cleaning products or other harsh substances. The hands are affected most.

Seborrhoeic Eczema is also known as "cradle cap". This causes a greasy type of rash that is affects the scalp, face, under arms, groin area or under the breasts.

Varicose Eczema is usually associated with a person having varicose veins or other circulatory problems. The rash affects the lower legs and ankles. The skin can become scaly, itchy and dark colored.

Discoid Eczema usually affects middle-aged men on the arms and legs with many round patches in the areas.

Home Remedies such as warm baths with oatmeal, vinegar and sunflower oil, a wet wrap therapy, aloe vera gel (from a plant) work wonders for the pain and itch of eczema. Also, applying moisture is one of the most important things a person can do to help alleviate the pain and itch of eczema.

Many more remedies, plus more information about each type of eczema, mentioned above, can be found at Priceless Home Remedies. Click on one of the links below, in the authors section, for the most comprehensive information available.

I have suffered from the dry, itchy skin for many years, especially on the hands, and I know that many of the home remedies do work! The best thing to do is to find the culprits (mine are harsh chemicals and my wedding rings, of all things) then stop using them or remove them, as in my case of jewelry.