The word atopic refers to a hereditary tendency to experience immediate allergic reactions because of the presence of an antibody on the skin or in the bloodstream. An atopic allergy is a form of allergy that afflicts sufferers with a genetic predisposition to be hypersensitive to certain allergens. Atopic eczema (or dermatitis as it is often called) is a form of eczema that occurs in those who have a genetic predisposition or hereditary tendency to develop such a condition. It is important to be clear that the tendency to develop atopic eczema is an inherited condition, it is not a disease that is catching it cannot be passed on to others through contact. In addition to the hereditary factor it is thought that modern environments and diet are causing an increase in the number of eczema cases reported every year.

Atopic eczema is an unbearably itchy skin condition that frequently becomes infected through lacerations self inflicted by the sufferer through scratching. It can occur anywhere on the body but the most common sites are on the insides of the elbows, the backs of the knees, the face, ears and scalp. Those who suffer from atopic eczema are also more likely develop hay fever or asthma; they are atopic individuals. To make an accurate diagnosis the doctor will want to know about family history of eczema, hay fever and asthma. He or she will want to know whether the patient has been exposed to any chemicals to rule out contact dermatitis. As there is no single test for atopic eczema it will often be a case of ruling out other possible conditions before being left with that as the only remaining option. The doctor will be able to offer emollients, corticosteroids, antifungals, antihistamines and antibiotics as appropriate, but none of these will cure the eczema. The best that can be hoped for is a reduction in the symptoms. Those who have atopic eczema can do much to help themselves by avoiding polluted atmospheres; removing irritant chemicals from their homes; eliminating known food allergens from their diet and using prescription drugs as required. Some find it helpful to keep the skin moisturised by the use of oil baths and emollients others find this irritates the condition further. It is helpful if the skin can be kept moisturised in some way as this will help to prevent cracking and infection. If standard emollients can not be tolerated it is worth experimenting with other oils that can be massaged on to the skin.

It is almost certainly better to avoid all of the nut oils as nuts are a known allergen to many people but seed oils can be used safely. Flax seed oil, containing essential fatty acids, has been used with some success in trials. As well as going some way to hydrate the skin it also has healing properties the essential fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the skin and reduce irritation. There are many causes of atopic eczema and for this reason there are many remedies that may help. It is important to experiment to find what works for each individual.