Atopic dermatitis is a condition that makes your skin red and itchy. It's common in children but will occur at any age. Atopic dermatitis is long lasting (chronic) and tends to flare periodically and then subside. It may be accompanied by asthma or hay fever. No cure is found for atopic dermatitis. But treatments and self-care measures will relieve itching and prevent new outbreaks. It helps to avoid harsh soaps and other irritants, apply medicated creams or ointments, and moisturize your skin. Atopic dermatitis (eczema) signs and symptoms vary widely from person to person and includes Itching, which may be severe, especially at night, red to brownish-gray patches, especially on the hands, feet, ankles, wrists, neck, upper chest, eyelids, inside the bend of the elbows and knees, and, in infants, the face and scalp, small, raised bumps, which may leak fluid and crust over when scratched, thickened, cracked, dry, scaly skin and raw, sensitive, swollen skin from scratching. Atopic dermatitis most often begins before age 5 and may persist into adolescence and adulthood.