Which type of skin condition is characterized by red, itchy patches?

Eczema is characterized by red, itchy patches on the skin. This chronic condition can lead to inflammation and can affect individuals of all ages. The itchy red patches can become worse when scratched, and they often appear on areas such as the elbows, knees, and face. Eczema is linked to a malfunction in the skin barrier, which allows moisture to escape and irritants to enter, causing the characteristic symptoms.

Other skin conditions may have some overlapping features, but they have distinct characteristics. For instance, acne primarily involves clogged pores leading to pimples and does not typically present as itchy red patches. Psoriasis is known for its thick, silvery scales on the red patches and is not primarily associated with itchiness as a predominant symptom. Dermatitis can refer to a range of skin reactions, but eczema specifically is a form of dermatitis that distinctly features the combination of red, itchy patches.