Dermatitis, which is also called eczema, is an inflammation of the skin. Different types of dermatitis exists and the disorder can be caused by a number of different things and occur in many forms. Generally, dermatitis describes swollen, reddened and itchy skin.

Dermatitis is a common condition and is not life-threatening or contagious. However, it can affect a person’s self esteem and bring about self-consciousness.

Several types of dermatitis exist and different signs and symptoms characterize each type. Common signs and symptoms include redness, swelling, itching and skin lesions.

Dermatitis can be caused by a number of things including health conditions, allergies, genetic factors, physical and mental stress, and irritants.

Contact Dermatitis - This form results from direct contact with things that a person is either irritated by or allergic to such as soaps of any kind or detergents, and cleaning products. Allergens that may trigger dermatitis include rubber, metals such as nickel, jewelry, perfume, cosmetics, weeds such as poison ivy, and neomycin, a common ingredient in topical antibiotic creams.

Neurodermatitis - This form typically develops in areas of the body where something rubs or scratches your skin. The irritation caused can cause a person to scratch the irritated area repeatedly.

Seborrheic Dermatitis - A red rash with a yellowish and somewhat "oily" scale typically form with this type of dermatitis, which is common in people with oily skin or hair. Seborrheic dermatitis may subside and then return again depending on the season of the year. Key triggers include mental or physical stress, travel or neurological conditions, such as Parkinson's disease.

Stasis dermatitis - When fluid accumulates in the tissues just beneath your skin, this type of dermatitis occurs. Most times, this occurs in the lower leg. The excess prevents that blood from nourishing the skin.

Atopic dermatitis - Allergies are the primary cause of this type of dermatitis. This type also runs frequently in families where certain family members have asthma or hay fever. It usually begins in infancy and tends to become less of a problem as you enter adulthood, unless a person is exposed to allergens or irritants. While the exact cause of this disorder is unknown, many experts believe it is most likely the result of dry, irritable skin combined with a malfunction in the body's immune system.

Perioral dermatitis - This type may be a form of the skin disorder rosacea, adult acne or seborrheic dermatitis. The exact cause of this type remains is unknown, but many experts believe makeup, moisturizers, topical corticosteroids or some dental products containing fluoride may be contributors.

In some cases, the open sores that can occur with dermatitis can lead to impetigo, which is a milder form of infection. Atopic dermatitis can also lead to this infection.

People with dermatitis can also get a bacterial infection called cellulitis, which infects the tissues under the skin. In people with a weakened immune system, this condition can be fatal.

Adding the following supplements and herbs to your daily regimen may be very beneficial in treating dermatitis naturally:

Evening Primrose Oil - Promotes lubrication of the skin.

OptiMSM - (take as directed on label) - This patented form of methylsulfonylmethane is effective in treating skin disorders.

Vitamin B-12 (1,000 - 2,000 mcg daily) - Needed for healthy skin and proper circulation.

Kelp (1,000 mg daily) - Necessary for healing tissues.

Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids (3,000 mg daily in divided doses) - Inhibits inflammation.

Vitamin E (400 IU daily & up) - Relieves itching and dryness.

Zinc (100 mg daily. Do not exceed this amount) - Aids healing and enhances immune function.

Borage Oil and Flaxseed Oil (take as directed on label) - Help skin retain moisture and suppleness.

Shark Cartilage (1 gram per 15 lbs of body weight divided into 3 doses) - Reduces inflammation in eczema.

Chamomile - Can be used internally or topically to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.

Grapeseed Extract - Reduces inflammation and rids the body of toxins.

Oregon Grape Root - Detoxifies the body and reduces inflammation.