Dermatitis

• Dermatology
• Dermatology
• Dermatitis

Medically Reviewed 26 July 2024, by Dr. Susan Mayou (GMC: 2405092) - founder of the Cadogan Clinic and one of the world's leading dermatologists

What is Dermatitis?

Dermatitis is a common skin condition that causes inflammation with symptoms that may include itchiness, redness, skin rash, blisters and scales. There are four main types of Dermatitis:

• Contact Dermatitis: A pink/red itchy rash which may be caused by irritants or allergies.
• Atopic Dermatitis: Also known as eczema. This condition usually runs in families and can be associated with allergies, asthma and stress. Symptoms include dry, itchy, red or cracked skin, which may also blister.
• Statis Dermatitis: This may be caused by circulatory conditions or varicose veins which cause a buildup of fluid in the lower legs which restricts blood and oxygen flow. This may result in open sores, swelling, itching and a thickened, discoloured skin on the ankles and lower legs.
• Seborrheic Dermatitis: Commonly found on oily parts of the body such as the face, scalp and chest, this is also known as cradle cap on babies. Symptoms may include dandruff, redness, itchiness and yellowish scaly patches.

What Causes Dermatitis

Dermatitis has several potential causes. Understanding the cause of Dermatitis is important to establish the type of Dermatitis and develop an effective treatment plan, especially in cases of recurring Dermatitis.

Causes of Dermatitis include:

• Genetics – Dry skin may run in families, and if you have direct family members who suffer from severe dry skin, leading to Dermatitis, you may be more likely to experience symptoms yourself.
• Allergies – Contact with common allergens such as dust, animal fur, plants, cosmetics, and certain metals may cause allergic reactions in some people, leading to dermatitis.
• Infection – Viral and bacterial skin infections are a common cause of skin inflammation which may lead to Dermatitis. Treating skin infections quickly is important to prevent them from spreading further
• Stress—Some people find that ongoing stress can lead to a skin reaction such as Dermatitis. This can be due to hormonal changes triggered by stress, which lead to the blood vessels to expand, leading to inflammation.
• Immune conditions – In some cases, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells causing inflammation and Dermatitis. Establishing the nature of the immune condition is required to find the best treatment for the Dermatitis.
• Dietary deficiencies – A lack of protein, essential fatty acids, Vitamin B3, Vitamin D or Zinc can all result in Dermatitis symptoms. 

Benefits of Dermatitis Treatment

Patients seek treatment for Dermatitis for many reasons. Dermatitis treatment benefits include:

• Improved skin quality and comfort – Treating Dermatitis results in skin with a more even tone and smoother texture. For patients who find the inflammation and dryness of Dermatitis uncomfortable, treating it will leave skin feeling less itchy and tight.
• Enhanced confidence – For many patients with Dermatitis, it can cause self-consciousness and a loss of confidence. Finding an effective treatment can help to alleviate this and allow people to feel more comfortable showing their skin.
• Improved quality of life – Some patients find that Dermatitis can affect their lives more widely than just their skin. The itchiness and discomfort can lead to a lack of sleep and avoiding activities such as sport which may exacerbate symptoms. Finding a treatment can allow people to live happily and more confidently. 

The cost of Dermatitis Treatment

How To Find Us

The Cadogan Clinic is based at 120 Sloane Street in Chelsea, just off Sloane Square and the Kings Road.

We are accessible by all major bus routes that pass through Sloane Square and Sloane Street, as well as Sloane Square tube station.

We are just a 5 minute walk northwards up Sloane Street once you have arrived at Sloane Square.

Local pay parking is available just around the corner from the Clinic on Cadogan Gate, Cadogan Square and Cadogan Gardens. Our local residential parking zone is the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea.

Address: 120 Sloane Street, Chelsea, London, SW1X 9BW