eczema self care basics

Overview

Eczema is a common skin condition that makes your skin dry, itchy, and inflamed. It is also called atopic dermatitis. It is not contagious and cannot be passed from person to person. The condition tends to come and go, with periods of flare-ups and times when the skin clears.

Yes, eczema is very common. It affects millions of people of all ages around the world. It is one of the most frequent skin conditions in children.

Eczema can start at any age, but it often appears in early childhood. It affects both males and females, and it is more likely if you or a close family member have hay fever, asthma, or other allergies. Some people get it for the first time as adults, sometimes due to irritants at work or home.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Dry, sensitive, and itchy skin
• Red or brownish-gray patches, especially on the hands, neck, elbows, knees, and face
• Areas of thickened, scaly, or rough skin
• Small, raised bumps that may leak fluid and crust over when scratched
• A feeling of tightness, burning, or soreness in affected areas

Symptoms in children

• The rash often appears on the face, scalp, inside the elbows, and behind the knees.
• Infants may have weepy, crusted patches on the cheeks and scalp.
• Itching can be intense and may interfere with sleep or play.
• Children may rub or scratch the skin, which can lead to raw or infected areas.

Symptoms in older adults

• Eczema tends to affect the hands, eyelids, and skin folds such as the neck or arms.
• The skin often looks very dry, leathery, or thickened from long-term scratching.
• Older adults may also experience more severe itching and a higher risk of skin infections.
• The rash may be less red but still very itchy and uncomfortable.

Causes

Main causes

• The exact cause is not fully known, but it seems to involve a mix of genetics and the environment.
• Many people with eczema have a natural skin barrier that does not hold in moisture well, so the skin becomes dry and allows irritants to enter.
• The immune system may overreact to triggers, causing inflammation and itching.
• Common triggers include soaps and detergents, rough fabrics, dust, pet dander, certain foods, stress, sweat, and extreme weather.
• Changes in temperature and low humidity can make the skin drier and more prone to flare-ups.

Risk factors

• A family history of eczema, asthma, or hay fever
• A personal history of allergies or asthma
• Living in a dry or cold climate
• Working in a job that requires frequent hand washing or contact with chemicals
• Using harsh soaps, perfumed products, or wearing wool or synthetic fabrics close to the skin

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you see signs of infection, such as oozing, crusting, or spreading redness
• If the rash is very painful or blisters are forming
• If your eczema suddenly becomes much worse or covers a large area of your body
• If you have a fever along with the rash

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you think you might have eczema but have never been diagnosed
• If your usual self-care routine is not controlling the itch or rash after a few weeks
• If itching keeps you awake at night or affects your daily life
• If you need help identifying your triggers and creating a skin-care plan

Diagnosis

Your doctor will usually diagnose eczema by looking at your skin and asking about your symptoms, family history, and any triggers you have noticed. In many cases, no tests are needed.

Tests that may be done

• There is no single test for eczema. Your doctor may ask about your medical history and examine your skin.
• Sometimes, patch testing is used to check for contact allergies. Small amounts of possible allergens are placed on your skin to see if they cause a reaction.
• In rare cases, a doctor may take a tiny sample of skin (a biopsy) to rule out other conditions.

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor will talk with you about what your symptoms look like and when they happen. They may ask about your skin-care routine, products you use, and any family history of allergies. Based on this, they will help you create a plan to manage your eczema and reduce flare-ups.

Treatment

There is no cure for eczema, but treatment focuses on restoring the skin barrier, reducing itching and inflammation, and avoiding triggers. Most people can manage their eczema with daily self-care, and some may also need medical treatment during flare-ups.

Self-care at home

• Moisturize your skin every day, at least twice a day. Use a thick, fragrance-free cream or ointment.
• Apply moisturizer within 3 minutes after bathing, while your skin is still slightly damp, to lock in moisture.
• Wash with lukewarm water and a mild, unscented cleanser. Avoid hot water and harsh soaps.
• Pat your skin dry gently with a soft towel. Do not rub.
• Wear loose, soft clothing made from cotton or other breathable fabrics. Avoid wool and rough materials.
• Keep your nails short to reduce damage from scratching.
• Find and avoid your personal triggers, such as certain soaps, detergents, fabrics, or foods.
• Use a cool mist humidifier in your home if the air is dry.

Medical treatments

Your healthcare provider may recommend medicated creams or ointments to reduce inflammation and calm the skin. They may also suggest oral medicines to help control itching or treat infections. For more severe eczema, light therapy or systemic treatments that work throughout the body may be considered. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions when using any treatment.

When is surgery considered?

Not applicable.

Living with this condition

Living with eczema means building a gentle daily routine. Moisturize regularly, keep bathing short and warm, and use fragrance-free products. Pay attention to your triggers and try to avoid them. It can also help to keep your environment comfortable — not too hot, not too cold, and with enough humidity.

Lifestyle tips

• Choose mild, fragrance-free laundry detergents and rinse clothes well.
• Add a humidifier to your bedroom if the air is dry, especially in winter.
• Take short, lukewarm showers or baths to avoid drying out your skin.
• After swimming, rinse off and moisturize right away.
• Manage stress with activities you enjoy, such as walking, deep breathing, or talking with friends.
• Protect your skin from extreme sun and cold, but don't skip sun protection when needed.

Diet and exercise

There is no special diet that helps everyone with eczema. If you suspect a food triggers your symptoms, talk to a healthcare provider before removing food from your diet. Regular exercise is good for your overall health and can reduce stress, but try to shower and moisturize soon after sweating to avoid irritation.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Eczema can be more than just physical. The itch, appearance, and sleep problems can affect your mood and confidence. It's normal to feel frustrated, anxious, or low at times. Talking to someone you trust, joining a support group, or seeking mental health support can all help. You don't have to manage it alone.

Prevention

There is no sure way to prevent eczema, but regular moisturizing and avoiding known triggers may help reduce flare-ups. In some babies, keeping the skin well-moisturized from an early age may lower the chances of developing eczema, but this is not guaranteed. Your healthcare provider can give personalized advice.

Complications

If left untreated

• Skin infections from scratching, which can cause oozing, crusting, and pain
• Thickened, leathery skin (called lichenification) from repeated scratching
• Poor sleep due to nighttime itching, which can affect daily energy and focus
• Emotional distress, including embarrassment or low self-esteem
• Increased risk of developing asthma or hay fever in some people

Long-term outlook

The outlook for eczema is good. Although it is a long-term condition, most people can manage it very well with consistent skin care and a few lifestyle adjustments. Many children see significant improvement as they grow older, and some completely outgrow it. With the right support, you can control your symptoms and enjoy a full, active life.

Find support

International organisations

• National Eczema Association ↗
• Eczema Society of Canada ↗

Local organisations

• National Eczema Society (UK) ↗ · United Kingdom

Helplines

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