What Is Eczema? Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Itchy, dry, inflamed skin that flares without warning—eczema can be both physically uncomfortable and emotionally frustrating, especially when it affects visible areas. It is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting children and adults alike. In the Gulf, where intense sun, heat, humidity along the coast, and heavy air-conditioning all challenge the skin, eczema can be particularly stubborn. Eczema can affect confidence and comfort, especially in sun-intense climates. So what is eczema, why does it flare, and how can you manage it in cities like Dubai, Riyadh, and Doha?

What Is Eczema?

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis in its most common form, is a condition in which the skin becomes inflamed, dry, itchy, and irritated. It happens when the skin's protective barrier does not function well, allowing moisture to escape and irritants to get in, which triggers inflammation. Eczema tends to come and go in flares, often linked to triggers. It is not contagious, and while it can be persistent, it is very manageable. Therapr helps you find nutritional, holistic, and skincare-focused practitioners who address inflammation, routine, and realistic pacing for eczema, complementing medical care.

Symptoms and Signs

Eczema typically causes dry, itchy skin, redness, and inflamed or scaly patches. During flares, skin may become cracked, weepy, or thickened from scratching, and the itch can be intense—often worse at night. Common areas include the hands, the insides of the elbows and knees, the neck, and the face, though it can appear anywhere. Constant itching can disturb sleep and affect quality of life. Because eczema is linked to a sensitive skin barrier and immune response, it often overlaps with allergic disorders, hives and chronic itching, and broader skin problems.

Common Causes and Triggers

Eczema results from a combination of genetics, a sensitive skin barrier, and immune response, with flares triggered by environmental and lifestyle factors. Common triggers include heat and sweating, dry air, harsh soaps, certain fabrics, allergens, and stress. In the Gulf, the contrast between hot outdoor conditions and cold, drying air-conditioning can stress the skin, while sweating in the heat and chlorinated pool water may provoke flares. Sun exposure has mixed effects. Some people notice food or allergen links. Identifying and reducing your personal triggers is one of the most effective parts of managing eczema.

Quick Facts

Also known as	Atopic dermatitis, dermatitis
Typically affects	Children and adults; often begins in childhood
Prevalence	One of the most common skin conditions worldwide
Typical duration	Chronic and flare-prone, but well managed with the right routine
Related specialities	Naturopathy, nutrition, functional medicine, skincare
When to seek help	Severe or spreading flares, signs of infection, or disrupted sleep

How It Is Treated and Managed

Eczema management centres on protecting and hydrating the skin barrier and reducing triggers. Regular use of fragrance-free moisturisers, gentle cleansing, and avoiding known irritants form the foundation. Medical treatments—such as topical creams prescribed by a doctor—help control flares and inflammation. Alongside this, some people explore holistic support: a nutrition consultation may help identify dietary patterns that affect inflammation for some individuals, while naturopathy and functional-medicine practitioners often look at triggers, stress, and overall skin health. Managing stress and protecting sleep help, since both influence flares. No approach cures eczema, but a consistent routine can keep it well controlled. Signs of skin infection need prompt medical attention.

Managing Eczema in the Gulf

Wellness and skincare consultations in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar commonly range from around 250–700 AED, 250–700 SAR, or 250–700 QAR per session, with dermatology care available at clinics. Providers are regulated by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS), and Qatar's Ministry of Public Health (MOPH). The climate is a key factor: moving between hot outdoors and drying air-conditioning can dry and irritate skin, so frequent moisturising, gentle products, and rinsing off sweat and chlorine after swimming can help keep eczema calmer.

When to See a Professional

See a doctor if eczema is severe, spreading, not responding to moisturising and over-the-counter care, or if the skin shows signs of infection such as oozing, crusting, or increasing pain and redness. Persistent itching that disrupts sleep or quality of life also warrants support. A dermatologist can guide medical treatment, and holistic practitioners can help with triggers and routine alongside it. Eczema is very manageable, and effective care can greatly improve comfort and confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is eczema contagious?

No. Eczema is not contagious. It results from a sensitive skin barrier and immune response, triggered by genetic and environmental factors—you cannot catch it from or pass it to others.

Does diet affect eczema?

For some people, certain foods can influence flares, though this varies. A nutrition consultation can help explore any dietary links without unnecessary restriction.

Why is my eczema worse with air-conditioning?

Air-conditioning dries the air and the skin, which can weaken the skin barrier and trigger flares. Regular moisturising and humidifying indoor air can help counter this.

The Bottom Line

Eczema is common, non-contagious, and—while often chronic—very manageable with a consistent skincare routine, trigger reduction, and the right support. In the Gulf's climate, protecting the skin barrier is especially important. Explore practitioners for eczema and related skin problems on Therapr, or start with naturopathy in Dubai to complement your care.

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This article is for information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.