Dermatitis – Consultant Diagnosis & Personalised Treatment in London

What is dermatitis?

Dermatitis refers to inflammation of the skin that results in redness, swelling, itching, and sometimes blistering. It is not a single disease but a group of conditions with overlapping features. Common subtypes include atopic eczema, allergic contact dermatitis, irritant contact dermatitis, seborrhoeic dermatitis, and nummular dermatitis. Each has distinct causes and triggers, but all can significantly affect daily life.

Dermatitis Causes and mechanisms

Dermatitis develops when the skin barrier is impaired or when the immune system overreacts to environmental triggers. Contributing factors include genetics, allergens, irritants, infections, and stress. For example:

• Atopic eczema: Linked to a genetic tendency toward allergies and impaired skin barrier.
• Allergic contact dermatitis: Triggered by exposure to allergens such as nickel, fragrances, or preservatives.
• Irritant contact dermatitis: Caused by repeated exposure to irritants like detergents, solvents, or soaps.
• Seborrhoeic dermatitis: Associated with excess oil and yeast on the skin, affecting scalp, face, and chest.

Who is affected by Dermatitis?

Dermatitis affects all ages and backgrounds. Atopic eczema is common in children, often improving with age. Adults frequently experience occupational irritant dermatitis, especially in healthcare, cleaning, or hairdressing. Seborrhoeic dermatitis often begins in adolescence or adulthood. People with a family history of allergies, asthma, or hay fever are at higher risk.

Dermatitis Signs and symptoms

Dermatitis can vary from mild itch and redness to severe inflammation with weeping, scaling, and cracking. Symptoms often flare in cycles, with triggers including weather changes, stress, certain foods, and exposure to chemicals or allergens. Chronic scratching may lead to thickened, darker patches of skin (lichenification).

Dermatitis Diagnosis

Diagnosis is usually clinical, based on history and examination. Patch testing may be carried out to identify allergens in contact dermatitis. In some cases, skin scrapings or biopsies help rule out infections or other conditions.

Dermatitis Treatment and management

Effective management focuses on reducing inflammation, restoring the skin barrier, and avoiding triggers. Treatment may include:

• Topical corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation during flare-ups.
• Calcineurin inhibitors: Non-steroid creams for sensitive areas such as face and eyelids.
• Moisturisers: Regular use helps repair and protect the skin barrier.
• Antihistamines: Relieve itching, especially at night.
• Phototherapy: Controlled light therapy for chronic or widespread dermatitis.
• Systemic medicines: In severe cases, tablets or injections may be prescribed.

Self-care and prevention

Gentle skin care, fragrance-free moisturisers, and avoidance of triggers are key to managing dermatitis. Wearing gloves during wet work, using mild cleansers, and applying emollients immediately after bathing can reduce irritation. Stress management and dietary awareness may also help prevent flare-ups.

Special considerations for skin of colour

In darker skin tones, redness may be less obvious, and dermatitis may present with grey-brown or violaceous discolouration. Post-inflammatory pigmentation is common and may take months to fade after inflammation settles. Specialist care helps manage both inflammation and pigmentary changes.

Why choose Skinhorizon?

Our dermatologists are highly experienced in diagnosing and treating all forms of dermatitis. At Skinhorizon, we provide personalised care with advanced therapies to control symptoms, reduce flares, and improve quality of life. We understand the impact of chronic skin conditions and work closely with you to restore confidence and comfort.

Your first visit — what to expect

1. Comprehensive history: Discussion of your symptoms, triggers, lifestyle, and medical history.
2. Examination: Careful inspection of affected areas to confirm type and severity.
3. Testing: Patch testing or other investigations if allergic dermatitis is suspected.
4. Treatment plan: Tailored approach including creams, tablets, or light therapy as needed.
5. Follow-up: Monitoring of progress and adjustment of treatment to keep your skin under control.

Reviewed by: Dr Mohammad Ghazavi, Consultant Dermatologist
Skinhorizon Clinic, 4 Clarendon Terrace, Maida Vale, London W9 1BZ
Last reviewed: 20 August 2025