Eczema in older adults

Overview

Eczema is a condition that makes your skin dry, itchy, and inflamed. In older adults, it often appears on the hands, arms, or legs.

Yes, eczema is common in older adults, though it may look different than in children.

It affects both men and women, often starting after age 60, especially in people with dry skin or other skin conditions.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Dry, scaly patches
• Intense itching
• Red or brownish-gray patches
• Small raised bumps that may leak fluid when scratched

Symptoms in children

• In children, eczema often appears on the face, elbows, and knees.

Symptoms in older adults

• In older adults, eczema often appears as very dry, cracked skin, especially on the lower legs, hands, and arms. The skin may look shiny and feel tight.

Causes

Main causes

• The exact cause isn't fully known, but it involves a problem with the skin barrier that lets moisture escape and irritants in. In older adults, aging skin naturally becomes drier, which can lead to eczema.

Risk factors

• Dry indoor air
• Cold weather
• Harsh soaps
• Long hot showers
• Stress
• Family history of eczema or allergies

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Signs of infection: redness spreading, warmth, pus, fever.
• Sudden severe itching that does not improve with moisturizers.

Book a routine appointment if:

• Dry, itchy skin that lasts more than a few weeks.
• Eczema that does not get better with over-the-counter moisturizers.

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask about your symptoms and look at your skin. They may also ask about your health history and any triggers.

Tests that may be done

• Usually no tests are needed. In some cases, a skin scraping or allergy test may be done to rule out other conditions.

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor will discuss ways to care for your skin and may prescribe treatments if needed.

Treatment

Treatment focuses on moisturizing the skin, reducing inflammation, and avoiding triggers.

Self-care at home

• Keep skin moisturized with fragrance-free creams or ointments.
• Use lukewarm water for bathing and pat dry.
• Wear soft, breathable fabrics like cotton.
• Avoid harsh soaps and detergents.
• Use a humidifier in dry rooms.

Medical treatments

If self-care isn't enough, a doctor may recommend medicated creams or ointments to control inflammation. These are applied only to affected areas. In more severe cases, other treatments such as light therapy or oral medications may be considered.

Living with this condition

Living with eczema means paying attention to your skin every day. Keep a routine of moisturizing and avoid scratching.

Lifestyle tips

• Wear soft fabrics and avoid wool or synthetic fibers.
• Use gentle, fragrance-free laundry products.
• Keep nails short to reduce damage from scratching.

Diet and exercise

There is no specific diet for eczema, but eating a balanced diet supports overall health. Exercise is fine, but shower soon after to rinse off sweat.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Itching and visible skin changes can affect your mood and sleep. If you feel frustrated or anxious, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. In a crisis, reach out to local crisis support.

Prevention

Eczema cannot always be prevented, but you can reduce flare-ups by keeping skin well-moisturized and avoiding known triggers.

Complications

If left untreated

• Skin infections (bacterial or viral)
• Sleep problems due to itching
• Permanent skin changes like thickening or darkening

Long-term outlook

With proper care, most older adults can manage eczema well. The condition may come and go, but treatments and good skin habits can keep it under control.

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