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Causes of Dry Skin and an Itchy Rash on the Face, Backs of Knees and Thighs

Rashes appearing as dry, itchy, scaly areas on various parts of the body are often caused by eczema. Eczema rashes appear on the face, backs of knees and thighs and can differ in appearance, severity and cause. Eczema is a general term and covers various types of rashes. It usually presents itself in childhood, mainly in children who have allergies or asthma or who have family members who do. Adults can also suffer from eczema, especially in the bendable areas of the body.

  1. What Is Eczema?

    • Eczema, sometimes called atopic eczema, is a common skin condition that affects both children and adults. Eczema causes a variety of skin conditions such as red, scaly, itchy or inflamed skin. The specific cause of eczema is not known, but it is generally a reaction to skin irritants such as detergents, soaps and some fabrics. The climate, allergens and stress may also trigger eczema. The condition is not contagious.

    Areas Affected by Eczema

    • The areas affected by eczema vary by person. In adults, the rashes generally appear on the hands and elbows. It also appears in creases or bending areas of the body such as the inside of the elbows and the underside of the knees. It generally affects children differently and may appear on the face, scalp, knees, elbows and hands. Eczema is not limited to these areas; it can appear anywhere on the body.

    Symptoms of Eczema

    • Eczema produces a variety of symptoms: itchy, red skin; tiny, fluid-filled blisters that ooze when scratched; or scaly, dry and crusted skin that becomes thick and leathery from excessive scratching. The skin can become infected if broken from scratching. A doctor can diagnose eczema by examining the skin and taking a patient history. Sometimes a piece of the scaly skin is tested to rule out other infectious skin diseases.

    Treatment of Eczema

    • The treatment for eczema depends on the severity of the rash. The rash can be treated with over-the-counter products containing cortisone to help calm itching, swelling and redness. However, if the rash is severe or persistent, a prescription for creams containing topical immunomodulators (TIMs) is generally prescribed. They work by changing the body's immune response to allergens. Other alternatives are cortisone shots or pills.

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