Got Itchy, Crusty Ears? (Yuck!) – Dermatologist’s Tips [2019]

By rjoachim | March 30, 2023

Ear eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a condition that causes your skin to become dry, discolored, itchy and bumpy. It may appear on the outside of your ear or inside your ear canal.

Eczema damages the skin barrier function (the “glue” of your skin). As a result, your skin becomes more sensitive and more prone to infection and dryness.

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disorder, which means it’s a skin condition that doesn’t go away. People with psoriasis have thick, discolored patches of skin (plaques) covered with white or silvery scales.

Ear eczema affects the skin in, on and around your ears. Eczema also causes more intense itching than psoriasis. Many people, especially children, can get both eczema and psoriasis.Ear eczema can affect anyone with ears

Ear eczema can affect anyone with ears. However, it’s more common in people with:

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How common is ear eczema?

Eczema is very common, and any part of your skin can develop it, including your ears. Approximately 15% to 30% of children have eczema, and 2% to 10% of adults have it.

Ear eczema affects your ears, including:

  • Your outer ears (pinna), including your ear lobes.
  • Your inner ears, including your ear canals.
  • Behind your ears.
  • The skin between your ears and your face.
  • Symptoms of ear eczema include:
  • Itchy skin.
  • Dry skin.
  • Discolored rashes.
  • Bumps on your skin.
  • Leathery patches of skin.
  • Crusty skin.
  • Swelling.
  • Ear eczema doesn’t hurt. However, if you scratch your ear eczema, you may break your skin, leading to an infection that can cause pain.
    • https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21842-ear-eczema
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