What Is Eczema?
Eczema is the name for a group of skin conditions that cause the skin to become red, itchy, and inflamed. Over 30 million Americans have some form of eczema, most common being Atopic Dermatitis.
Eczema affects all skin colors. However, the prevalence of eczema is increasing and more common among the Black, Asian, and Pacific Islander population.
Where Does It Appear?
Though eczema can appear anywhere on the body, in adults it is usually seen on the neck, upper arms and back, elbow and knee creases, and back of the hands, feet, fingers and toes. The skin around the eyes, including eyelids, may also be affected. While many people first develop eczema as children, it can develop at any point in your life and have a significant impact on overall quality of life.
What can Eczema look like?
Common symptoms
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.
But 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.
Why do people get Eczema?
The reason some people get eczema is a complex mix of factors including genetics, skin barrier function and environment. You may be at higher risk for developing eczema if a parent, sibling, or other close relative has it. Environment is also thought to play a significant role. Eczema rates tend to be higher in urban settings where there are higher levels of environmental pollutants.
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 skin care routine.
Irritants
- Soaps detergents & dryer sheets
- Bubble-bath & 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.
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.
Environment
- Hot or cold temperature
- High or low humidity
- Tobacco smoke
- Traffic pollution
- Water hardness
How To Reduce Trigger
Food
- Dairy products
- Eggs
- Nuts and seeds
- Wheat
How To Reduce Trigger
Stress
- Anxiety
- Anger
- Frustration
- Stress-induced habit scratching
How To Reduce Trigger
- Exercise regularly.
- Eat a healthy diet.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
- Practice meditation.
How to treat Eczema
Gentle skin care and liberal use of moisturizers are considered first-line therapy for management of eczema. Even when you are not experiencing a flare-up, basic management including trigger avoidance and gentle cleansing with daily, frequent moisturization is essential.
Easing Eczema symptoms
The treatment of eczema 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. Donât rub.
- Apply moisturizers to damp skin.
- Avoid scratching.
- Wear sunscreen.
Topical treatments
Treating eczema on the surface is the first line of defense against flare-ups. Topical treatments can include the following:
- Oatmeal bath treatments
- Moisturizers
- Over-the-counter medications
- Prescription medications
Helped 444,000 Eczema Warriors in 2023
In 2022, Aveeno® achieved its goal of helping 100,000 Eczema Warriors through educational resources, tools, and products. In 2023, we have exceeded our goal of 200,000 and helped an additional 444,000 Eczema Warriors.
Relieving Eczema Symptoms With Colloidal Oatmeal
Colloidal oatmeal is the only skin protectant ingredient FDA-approved for the treatment of eczema, and its benefits have been demonstrated through extensive research across diverse patient populations. In clinical studies, Aveeno® Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Cream has been shown to improve signs of atopic dermatitis from Day 1 and Aveeno® Eczema Therapy Itch Relief Balm provides immediate and long-lasting relief of dry, itchy skin.