Beauty Breakdown: Everything You Need To Know About Eczema Care

While flaky skin and a pesky itch are the hallmark eczema symptoms, this skin disease is highly complex. Eczema is influenced by genetics, environment, and in some cases, even food allergies. There's also a long list of types of eczema that don't get nearly enough time in the limelight. 

We know that, as of now, there's no cure—adding to the nuance of this condition. But still, it doesn't make tiptoeing around irritants and triggers any easier.

On a basic level, "​​Eczema is the most common chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by skin barrier dysfunction and increased water loss from the skin, leading to inflammation and itching," explains board-certified dermatologist at Hudson Dermatology and Laser Center Aya Ahram, M.D.

You may also notice skin flaking, redness, irritation, and raised bumps. You can experience eczema anywhere on the body, but it's especially common in naturally dry areas like the cheeks, back of the knees, elbows, and hands—as these spots don't have as many active oil glands.

Due to the severe dryness and irritation, these eczema patches can be difficult to treat. Not to mention, a compromised skin barrier is more susceptible to infection, which means keeping the area clean is just as essential.

But as mentioned above, there's more than one kind of eczema. These different forms have unique causes, and some unique care instructions, but are also incredibly similar to one another, which is why so many people often use "eczema" as an umbrella term.

Look for gentle cleansers and lean toward oil- or cream-based formulas to prevent stripping the skin, notes board-certified dermatologist Anar Mikailov, M.D. FAAD. Super-foamy face wash may contain soap and sulfates that can irritate the skin and make your complexion feel tight.

It may be a change you have to get used to, as many folks are used to a high-suds product, but one shift that's sure to help heal eczema patches and prevent dehydration.

The first step: Build a gentle, nonirritating skin care routine. "Less is more when it comes to eczema-prone skin. Look for products with the least amount of ingredients," Koestline says. 

You can consult your dermatologist, look for the "Accepted E," seal from the National Eczema Association on your products, or keep a "yes or no" list on hand for product shopping. 

To put it frankly, the eczema-safe seal means that the product is fit for eczema-prone skin, but the absence of the seal doesn't relay the opposite. Koestline explains, "As this is voluntary and requires a fee, not every brand with products suitable for eczema-prone skin will have the seal." So, view it as an extra, not necessarily a requirement.

While building out your product lineup, assess what resources you need to effectively treat eczema. You'll want a dermatologist's POV for diagnosis and treatment plan should you have access to one, even if it's just an annual check-in.

In addition, keep up with breaking research, product recommendations, and FAQs on the National Eczema Organization's website—it's chock-full of helpful information, support groups, and more. 

Even if you aren't using the obvious offenders like retinol and potent acids, topical products may still be irritating your skin. Maybe it's an allergy or hidden fragrance—either way, you'll want to ensure each product you're using is soothing, not causing more inflammation. 

Given that some forms of eczema are exacerbated by allergies, it's no surprise that food sensitivity is often present as well. "The role of diet in eczema is complex; however, at 6 months of age, around 80% of patients with severe eczema can show sensitization to milk, eggs, or peanuts2," Ahram says. 

That noted, food sensitivity testing isn't always necessary (and can be pricey depending on your insurance). Thus, "It should be reserved for moderately to severely affected patients who do not respond to treatment or who show other symptoms of food allergy, such as gastrointestinal involvement," she adds.

Finally, take a look at your day-to-day routine and figure out which (if any) steps could be causing your eczema to flare. 

For some folks, keeping a journal of their eczema breakouts can help to trace back their steps.