Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition characterized by areas of red, itchy skin. This condition usually starts in early childhood, especially when there is a family history of eczema, asthma, hay fever, conjunctivitis, or food allergies. The skin fails to hold in moisture, becomes dry, then inflamed, itchy and often infected. Various combinations of factors cause the dryness. Allergies leading to an overactive immune system and hereditary dry skin are the most common causes of Eczema.