The word Eczema, also known as Dermatitis, is derived from the Greek word ‘Ekzein’ which means ‘to boil’ or ‘bubble’. A common dry skin condition that is characterised by red, inflamed and itchy skin, which can occur all over the body and, depending on its severity, is classed as clear, mild, moderate or severe. Patients affected by the condition will go through periods of flare-ups and remissions, although it is not curable, in the majority of cases it can be controlled. Eczema is not contagious and it is worth reminding patients, especially young children, of this fact. There are many different types of eczema and they include: