Eczema in teenagers

Overview

Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that makes your skin dry, itchy, and red. It often starts in childhood and can continue into the teenage years.

Yes, eczema is very common. About 1 in 10 children and teenagers have eczema.

Eczema often starts in infancy and can last into the teenage years. It affects boys and girls equally.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Dry, itchy skin
• Red or darker patches of skin, often on the face, neck, elbows, knees, and hands
• Small bumps that may leak fluid and crust over when scratched
• Thickened, leathery skin from long-term scratching

Symptoms in children

• In younger children, eczema often appears on the face, scalp, and outer arms and legs.
• The skin may weep (leak clear fluid) and become infected.
• Sleep is often disturbed by itching.

Symptoms in older adults

• In older adults, eczema may appear as very dry, scaly skin on the hands, legs, or trunk.
• It can be less weepy and more lichenified (thickened) from scratching.
• It is often linked to other conditions like asthma or hay fever.

Causes

Main causes

• Eczema is caused by a combination of genetics and the immune system overreacting to triggers.
• The skin's natural barrier is weak, so it loses moisture and is easily irritated.
• Common triggers include dry air, sweat, rough fabrics, certain soaps or detergents, and stress.

Risk factors

• Having a family history of eczema, asthma, or hay fever
• Living in a dry or cold climate
• Certain allergies (to dust mites, pollen, pet dander)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have signs of skin infection (yellow crusts, oozing, spreading redness, fever)
• If the eczema suddenly gets much worse and is not controlled with usual treatments

Book a routine appointment if:

• If over-the-counter moisturizers and mild steroid creams are not working
• If the eczema is affecting your sleep, school, or daily activities
• If you need a prescription treatment plan

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask about your symptoms and examine your skin. They will look at the location and appearance of the rash.

Tests that may be done

• No specific test is needed. Sometimes a skin patch test may be done to check for allergies.

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will likely ask about your history of allergies, asthma, or family history. They may recommend trying treatments before making a final diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment focuses on controlling itching, repairing the skin barrier, and preventing flare-ups. A combination of self-care and medical treatments usually works best.

Self-care at home

• Moisturize your skin at least twice a day with a fragrance-free moisturizer
• Use gentle, non-soap cleansers and lukewarm water
• Avoid scratching – keep nails short and use cool compresses
• Wear soft, breathable fabrics like cotton
• Identify and avoid your personal triggers

Medical treatments

Doctors may prescribe medicated creams or ointments to reduce inflammation and control itching. These are typically used only during flare-ups. They may also recommend antihistamines for itch, or antibiotics if an infection occurs. In severe cases, phototherapy (light treatment) or oral medications that affect the immune system may be considered. Always use treatments as directed by your healthcare provider.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used to treat eczema.

Living with this condition

Living with eczema means making skin care a daily habit. Moisturize morning and night, especially after showers. Keep your home cool and humidified. Try to reduce stress with activities you enjoy. Remember, you are not alone – many teenagers manage eczema successfully.

Lifestyle tips

• Take short, lukewarm baths or showers (avoid hot water)
• Pat skin dry gently, do not rub
• Use fragrance-free laundry detergents
• Manage stress with exercise, hobbies, or talking to someone
• Avoid known triggers like dust, pet dander, or certain foods if they affect you

Diet and exercise

There is no special diet for eczema, but some people find certain foods (like dairy or eggs) trigger flare-ups. Keep a food diary to see if any foods affect your skin. Exercise is good for overall health, but sweat can irritate eczema. Rinse off after sweating and moisturize afterwards.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Eczema can be frustrating and embarrassing. It may affect your confidence or make you feel self-conscious. It's important to talk about your feelings with someone you trust – a parent, friend, or counselor. You deserve support, and treatment can help improve both your skin and your mood.

Prevention

You cannot prevent eczema if you are genetically prone to it, but you can reduce flare-ups by keeping your skin well-moisturized and avoiding triggers.

Vaccines

Routine vaccines are safe for people with eczema. There are no vaccines to prevent eczema itself.

Screening programmes

There is no screening test for eczema. Diagnosis is based on symptoms and skin exam.

Complications

If left untreated

• Persistent itching can lead to skin thickening and scarring
• Scratching can break the skin and cause bacterial infections
• Sleep loss due to itching can affect mood and school performance

Long-term outlook

With the right care, most people with eczema can control their symptoms very well. Eczema often improves as you get older, especially after the teenage years. Even if it persists, modern treatments can help you live comfortably.

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