Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

 

Why do I have Eczema?

Eczema (also called atopic dermatitis) is a long-term skin condition. It often runs in families, so genetics can play a role (family members can have seasonal allergies or asthma).

Many things can make eczema worse, including:

  • Dry or cold weather (running indoor heating)

  • Fragrances and harsh soaps

  • Stress, poor sleep, unhealthy eating (especially dairy)

  • Certain allergens (like pet dander, pollen, or dust mites)

  • Illness or being sick

  • Lots of hand washing or hand sanitizer use (especially since COVID)

When eczema flares, skin can get very dry and cracked, which makes it painful to use lotions or creams.


How do I avoid eczema flares?

1. Moisturize every day (morning & night)

Moisturizing is the most important thing you can do to prevent flares.

  • Thick ointments like Vaseline or Aquaphor or CeraVe work best, especially during flares.

  • If those feel too greasy, try CeraVe Moisturizing Cream or Vanicream—these do not leave a greasy or sticky feel.

  • Avoid lotions—they contain more alcohol and can dry your skin even more (especially during flares).

2. Shower or bathe daily (or every other day)

3. Try bleach baths for broken or scratched skin

This helps reduce bacteria on the skin as well as itchiness and inflammation.

  • Add ¼ cup of household bleach to a full bathtub of lukewarm water.

  • Soak for 10–15 minutes, then pat dry.

  • Immediately moisturize after the bath while skin is still damp.

4. Go 100% fragrance-free

Fragrance is a major trigger for eczema—fragrance makes eczema worse.


How do I treat eczema flares?

1. Use steroid (cortisone) ointments

Steroids are the best way to calm down red, itchy, irritated skin during an eczema flare.

  • Use over-the-counter hydrocortisone ointment (not cream) twice a day on the red or itchy spots.

  • It’s safe for all ages and all body parts.

Make it work better:
After applying the hydrocortisone ointment, cover the area with plastic wrap for 30 minutes. This helps the medicine soak in deeper.

⚠️ Warning: Don’t overuse hydrocortisone. Using too much for too long can cause skin thinning, stretch marks, and easy bruising.

2. Moisturize Often

Eczema skin doesn’t hold in moisture well. You need to moisturize frequently to protect it.

Avoid lotions—they contain more alcohol, which can sting on broken skin and worsen flares.


Extra tips for managing eczema:

Not every tip works for everyone. I have two kids with eczema, and we’ve learned that trial and error is key. Try these ideas and see what works for you.

1. Use a Cool-Mist Humidifier

Dry air makes eczema worse—especially in winter or when heaters are running.
Run a cool-mist humidifier in your bedroom overnight or in your main living space during the day.

2. Treat broken or oozy skin

Use antibiotic ointment or medical-grade honey (like Manuka) on any broken or oozing skin twice a day.

  • Prescription mupirocin ointment works better than over-the-counter ointments.

  • If you have many infected spots, you may need an oral antibiotic—see your doctor.

3. Try Antihistamines for Itching

Antihistamines can sometimes help reduce itching and improve sleep.

4. Vinegar Soaks

Great for scratched or broken skin—they help clean and calm irritation.
👉 See my page on Vinegar Soaks for how to do this safely.

5. Bleach Baths

Safe for all ages and skin types—like turning your bath into a chlorinated swimming pool.

  • Helps reduce bacteria and itching before bed

  • Do it 1–2 times per week during bad flares

6. Avoid Triggers

These common things can make eczema worse:

  • Rough or scratchy clothes (especially wool)

  • Pet dander (if flares happen around animals)

  • Harsh soaps or detergents

  • Tobacco smoke and air pollution

Check if your eczema improves by removing these triggers for a few weeks.

7. Lower Your Stress

Eczema flares with stress—just like asthma or migraines.
Before a big test, hard conversation, or illness, treat early to avoid a flare.
👉 Check out this page on easy stress-reduction tips.

8. Eat Better

Many people notice eczema gets worse when eating junk food or fast food.
Try adding more whole, plant-based foods to your meals—especially during flares.
Eating better also helps you manage stress and heal your skin faster.


What if my eczema isn’t getting better?

Most people get better by following the steps above. But sometimes, eczema doesn’t improve because of:

  • Sensitive skin

  • An allergy to something touching your skin (like soaps, lotions, or chemicals)

If over-the-counter treatments aren’t helping, you may need:

  • Stronger prescription creams

  • Patch testing to check for common skin allergies

👉 Look for a board-certified dermatologist in your area. If you’re in or near Utah, see one of my excellent colleagues at the University of Utah or book a virtual visit with me through Honeydew.


DISCLAIMER

The statements expressed and content of this website are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Readers should seek their own professional counsel for any medical condition or before starting or altering any treatment, exercise, or dietary plan. Please see our full disclaimer here.

 
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