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Living with Eczema

While there is no single solution for coping with eczema, there are lots of management strategies that can help. The key is knowing yourself and finding the eczema treatment that works best for you. Aveeno® is a dermatologist-recommended brand that helps provide relief to eczema-prone skin.

Do you think you have Eczema?

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What Is Eczema?

Eczema refers to a group of skin conditions that cause the skin to become red, itchy, and inflamed. Over 30 million Americans have some form of eczema, the most common being Atopic Dermatitis. While eczema affects skin of all colors, the prevalence of eczema is most common and increasing among Black, Asian, and Pacific Islander populations.

ECZEMA IN SKIN OF COLOR

Where Does it Appear?

Skin tone and texture concerns can surface anywhere on the body, often presenting differently depending on location. The backs of legs and arms might feel bumpy, while the upper back or chest could feel rough due to dry patches. Other areas of rough, bumpy skin can include the upper arms, thighs, buttocks, and sides of the torso.

What does Tone & Texture mean? Tone refers to the levels of melanin or pigment in the skin, while texture refers to the condition of the skin’s surface.

Woman applying lotion to elbow

What can Eczema look like?

Eczema Skin on Feet

Scratching arm with eczema

Living with Eczema - Image 6 - Aveeno - en-US
Living with Eczema - Image 4 - Aveeno - en-US

Common symptoms

85% experience itch every day

The most common symptom of eczema is itch. Research shows more than 85% of people with eczema experience itch every day. For many people, the itch can range from mild to moderate. Up to 30% of people rate sleep disturbance as their most or second most burdensome symptom.

Still, eczema and its symptoms are different for everyone. You may have all or just a few of the symptoms below. There may be times your symptoms go away, and other times when you have flare-ups. The best way to find out if you have eczema is to consult with a healthcare professional.

Graphic icon with outstretched hand representing itchy condition

Itchiness

Dry, sensitive skin

Dry, sensitive skin

Rough, leathery, or scalpy patches

Rough, leathery, or scalpy patches

Sleep disturbance

Sleep disturbance

Inflamed, Discolored skin

Inflamed, Discolored skin

Oozing or crusting

Oozing or crusting

Woman with Eczema on her arm

Why do people get Eczema?

The causes of eczema comprise a complex mix of factors, including genetics, skin barrier function, and environment. You may be at higher risk of developing eczema if a parent, sibling, or other close relative has it. Additionally, environmental factors are thought to play a significant role, and eczema rates tend to be higher in urban settings where there are higher levels of environmental pollutants. Factors like harsh soaps, detergents, and certain clothing fabrics can also trigger eczema flare-ups.

Eczema triggers & treatments

While there is no cure, eczema can be managed by identifying and avoiding the things that may cause flare-ups and establishing a daily skincare routine. Learning how to treat eczema can set you up for a more comfortable lifestyle.

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Eczema Irritants Icon

Irritants

  • Soaps detergents & dryer sheets

  • Hot showers & certain shampoos

  • Disinfectants like chlorine

  • Fragrances & dyes

  • Wool or other coarse fabrics

How To Reduce Trigger

  • Wash new clothes before wear.

  • Use dye-free and fragrance-free products.

  • Use sunscreens made for sensitive skin.

  • Wear loose fitting and breathable clothing.


Eczema Food Icon

Food

  • Dairy products

  • Eggs

  • Nuts and seeds

  • Wheat

How To Reduce Trigger

If you suspect a food is making eczema symptoms worse, see your doctor. You may be asked to keep a diary to help identify one or more suspect foods.

Eczema Allergens Icon

Allergens

  • House dust mites

  • Pets

  • Pollen (seasonal)

  • Molds

How To Reduce Trigger

  • Vacuum and wet-dust floors and furniture regularly.

  • Limit soft toys and wash often.

  • Groom pets regularly to reduce danger.


icon-stress

Stress

  • Anxiety

  • Anger

  • Frustration

  • Stress-induced habit scratching

How To Reduce Trigger

  • Exercise regularly.

  • Eat a healthy diet.

  • Avoid caffeine and alcohol.

  • Practice meditation.

Eczema Environment Icon

Environment

  • Hot or cold temperature

  • High or low humidity

  • Tobacco smoke

  • Traffic pollution

  • Water hardness

How To Reduce Trigger

Try to maintain an even temperature and humidity in your home. Hot temperatures can cause sweating which can trigger eczema.

How to Manage Eczema

Frequent use of moisturizers for eczema are considered first-line therapy for the symptoms of eczema. Trigger avoidance and gentle cleansing with a daily moisturizer for eczema are essential, even when you are not experiencing an itchy, dry skin flare-up.

Easing Eczema symptoms

Eczema treatment is similar in people of all races and ethnicities. Goals of treatment include relieving itch and hydrating to help restore the skin moisture barrier. Everyday treatment tips include:

  • Limit showers to 15 minutes using lukewarm water.

  • Use gentle cleansers that have been tested on sensitive skin.

  • Avoid harsh abrasives and loofahs.

  • Gently pat skin dry. Don’t rub.

  • Apply moisturizers to damp skin.

  • Avoid scratching.

  • Wear sunscreen.

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Topical treatments

The first line of defense against eczema is to manage symptoms such as itch, dehydration, and inflammation with a topical moisturizer. Eczema creams and eczema lotions are not all the same, so be sure to look for ingredients like colloidal oatmeal that are indicated for relieving itch and minor skin irritation due to eczema. Topical treatments can include the following:

  • Oatmeal bath treatments

  • Moisturizers for eczema

  • Over-the-counter medications

  • Prescription medications

Find a Dermatologist

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