eczema diet considerations

Overview

Eczema (also called atopic dermatitis) is a long-term skin condition that makes your skin dry, itchy, and inflamed. Sometimes it looks like red or darker patches, and the skin may weep or crust.

Yes, eczema is very common. Millions of people worldwide have it, and it often starts in early childhood.

Eczema can affect anyone, but it is most common in babies and children. Many children outgrow it, but some adults continue to have flares. It affects people of all skin types.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Intense itching, especially at night
• Dry, sensitive skin
• Red, brown, or darkened patches of skin
• Small raised bumps that may leak fluid and crust
• Thickened, cracked, or scaly skin

Symptoms in children

• Eczema often appears on the face and scalp in babies
• Older children may have patches on elbows, knees, wrists, and neck
• Children may scratch a lot, which can disturb sleep
• Skin may become dark or pale after flares in some children

Symptoms in older adults

• Adults often have patches on hands, inner elbows, and backs of knees
• Skin may be very dry and leathery after many flares
• Flares can be triggered by stress, weather, or certain soaps
• Older adults may have an increased risk of skin infections from scratching

Causes

Main causes

• A problem with the skin barrier, which makes skin lose moisture and be more open to irritants
• An overactive immune response to triggers like allergens or stress
• Genetics, as eczema tends to run in families
• Environment, such as cold weather, air pollution, or harsh soaps
• For some people, a food allergy or sensitivity can trigger a flare, but this is not the main cause

Risk factors

• Having a family history of eczema, allergies, or asthma
• Having a personal allergy to milk, eggs, peanuts, soy, wheat, or fish (if you are sensitive)
• Living in a dry, cold, or polluted area
• Stress or emotional upset
• Having another atopic condition, like hay fever or asthma

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have signs of a skin infection, such as spreading redness, pain, warmth, or pus
• If you have a sudden, severe flare that does not respond to your usual moisturising routine
• If your skin becomes very swollen or blistered

Book a routine appointment if:

• If eczema is affecting your sleep or daily life
• If you want to explore whether food is a trigger
• If your current treatments are not keeping symptoms under control
• If your child has eczema and you are worried about their growth or sleep

Diagnosis

A doctor or nurse will usually diagnose eczema by looking at your skin and asking about your symptoms, family history, and triggers. There is no single scan or blood test for eczema, though tests can help rule out other conditions.

Tests that may be done

• A skin examination by a healthcare provider
• Patch testing to look for contact allergies (if a specific product is suspected)
• Skin prick or blood tests to check for food or pollen allergies (only if your doctor thinks it is helpful)
• A short trial removal and reintroduction of a suspected food (always under medical supervision)

What to expect at your appointment

Your healthcare provider will ask questions and look at the affected areas. They may refer you to a dermatologist or an allergy specialist if needed. They will also discuss skincare and treatments that can help.

Treatment

Treatment for eczema focuses on reducing inflammation, restoring the skin barrier, and avoiding triggers. Diet changes are only helpful if a food trigger is identified. Treatment plans are individual and may change over time.

Self-care at home

• Use a rich, unscented moisturiser every day, even when your skin looks calm
• Bath or shower in warm (not hot) water, and pat your skin dry gently
• Use gentle, fragrance-free soap substitutes
• Wear soft, breathable fabrics like cotton
• Keep your nails short and consider cotton gloves at night to reduce scratching damage
• Try to manage stress and get enough sleep

Medical treatments

Doctors can prescribe a range of treatments. These usually include emollient creams and ointments to soothe and protect the skin, and topical (applied to the skin) medicines to reduce inflammation. For more severe eczema, light therapy or systemic medicines that act on the immune system may be offered. Always use licensed medicines as prescribed and talk to your doctor about options, risks, and benefits.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used to treat eczema. Some people may have surgery for other related conditions, but eczema itself is managed with skincare and medicines.

Living with this condition

Living with eczema means having a daily routine of moisturising and being aware of triggers. You may need to adjust your routine during the day or different seasons. Keep a simple routine and plan for flares.

Lifestyle tips

• Identify and avoid personal triggers such as certain soaps, dust, or stress
• Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing to manage stress
• Keep your home environment comfortable, not too hot or dry
• Choose activities and clothing that keep you cool and comfortable

Diet and exercise

Eating a healthy, balanced diet is good for overall health, but there is no one 'eczema diet'. If you think a food may be triggering your eczema, talk to a doctor or dietitian before removing it. Regular exercise is fine and can help reduce stress, but shower soon after to avoid sweat irritating your skin.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Eczema can be emotionally tough. It can affect sleep, confidence, and social life, and it may cause embarrassment or frustration. It is normal to feel this way. Talk to your healthcare team if you feel anxious or low, and consider seeking mental health support. If you are in crisis or having thoughts of self-harm, please contact a local mental health crisis line or go to the nearest emergency department.

Prevention

Eczema cannot always be prevented, but you may be able to reduce flares by avoiding triggers, keeping your skin moisturised, and treating early signs of a flare straight away.

Complications

If left untreated

• Repeated scratching can break the skin, leading to infections
• Skin may become thickened and darker or lighter in colour over time
• Sleep problems can affect school, work, and relationships
• Insect bites and other irritants may cause severe flares in some people

Long-term outlook

With good, consistent care, most people with eczema can keep their symptoms in check and live a full, active life. Even if you have flares from time to time, the right treatment, skincare, and support can make a big difference. Many children will improve as they get older.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.