If you have dry skin and rough, red patches that itch, you may have one of several common skin problems called eczema. Dermatitis is the clinical term for itchy, inflamed skin. Atopic eczema commonly occurs in young people and is usually found inside the elbows, on the face, wrists, ankles, hands, or backs of the knees. Seborrheic eczema, or severe dandruff, is also a common type of dermatitis.
Contact eczema is the rash from poison ivy or poison oak, for example.
Another type, stasis eczema, often occurs among older adults and is characterized by a rash around the ankles. A number of things can irritate the skin and cause dermatitis. Many people may think that this problem is related to food. Many people who have atopic eczema come from families with a history of similar skin problems or respiratory allergies. People with this type of skin should avoid wearing irritating fabrics such as wool and avoid getting too warm, he suggests.