What are the symptoms of atopic dermatitis?

Most people with atopic dermatitis notice intense itching, and scratching can make the rash more inflamed. Skin may look red, darker, or lighter than nearby skin, depending on your natural skin tone. Common areas include the face, neck, hands, and the folds around the elbows or knees; babies may have more widespread patches. A flare can cause tiny bumps, fluid-filled areas, crusting, or painful cracks. Repeated rubbing may make the skin thicker and create a stronger itch-scratch cycle. Symptoms can come and go, with dry weather, irritants, sweat, stress, or fragranced products aggravating some people's skin.

The rash pattern is not identical for everyone. Changes such as persistent itch, sleep disturbance, or recurrent patches can help a clinician distinguish atopic dermatitis from other causes of dry or itchy skin. Explore [Itchy Skin](/symptoms/itchy-skin/) and [Atopic Dermatitis](/conditions/atopic-dermatitis/) for related information.

Use a fragrance-free moisturiser generously and often, especially after bathing. Keep showers or baths lukewarm, choose a gentle cleanser, and pat rather than rub the skin dry. Soft clothing and short, clean fingernails can reduce irritation from scratching. During a troublesome flare, a clinician may recommend a prescribed anti-inflammatory cream or another treatment suited to the affected area and age. Wet-wrap therapy may be considered for selected flares under professional guidance; learn about [Wet Wrap Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/wet-wrap-therapy/). Avoid testing several new products at once, because that makes it harder to identify an irritant.

Arrange medical advice if itching repeatedly disrupts sleep, the rash is spreading, treatment is not helping, or the diagnosis is uncertain. Seek prompt care if the skin becomes increasingly painful, warm, swollen, crusted, or drains pus, since infection can occur in damaged skin. Urgent assessment is warranted for rapidly worsening symptoms, fever, or painful clustered blisters. Darkening after inflammation can persist; [Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation](/conditions/post-inflammatory-hyperpigmentation/) explains this possible change.

Could another condition be causing this rash? Which moisturiser and prescription treatment fit the body area? What should I do at the first sign of a flare? How can I reduce scratching at night?