Ecz-pert Tips for Bathing with Eczema

What do you do nearly every day that can affect your eczema? Bathing! It’s important to care for your skin in and out of the bath or shower. From oatmeal baths to bleach baths, there are several different ways to care for your skin whether you’re in the middle of a flare or aiming to avoid one in the future. 

Why is bathing important for eczema management?

Baths are an effective way to care for your skin and your skin barrier. A skin barrier that is inflamed or dry is vulnerable to bacteria and allergens. A regular bathing and skin care routine can strengthen your skin barrier and help you retain moisture. Additionally, wet skin can better absorb medication and increase its effectiveness. There are several different remedies you can apply on a daily basis in your bath routine. 

How to bathe during an eczema flare (or to help avoid one)

Dr. Jeff Yu, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant professor of dermatology at Massachusetts General Hospital, noted that you should “not use HOT water. Lukewarm water is best for bathing because the hotter the water, the dryer the skin will be.” As you bathe, be sure to not vigorously scrub with a loofah and use a mild cleanser. Dr. Yu advised, “Avoid fragrances in the bath. Fragrances are by far the most common irritants and allergens present in bathing products. Even though something may be labeled “for babies”, it can still elicit an eczema flare.” 

During an eczema flare, there are a few other types of products you may try. For example, you may choose to bathe in more than just lukewarm water. Bathing with mild bath oils without fragrances or with baking soda by adding a quarter of a cup to the bath are two good methods. If you feel that your skin is stinging in a bath, adding a cup of salt may provide some relief. Moreover, you may also wish to try adding colloidal oatmeal or apple cider to your bath.

Soak and seal is an excellent method for preventing flares and re-moisturizing your skin. During the bath, be sure to soak in lukewarm water for five to 10 minutes. Bleach baths can be extremely effective. You can add one fourth to a half a cup of household bleach to the bath. Be sure not to submerge your head or rub your eyes. If caring for a child, supervise them. After bathing, rinse your skin with water. Bleach baths help to balance the pH of your skin and have anti-inflammatory properties. If you’re unsure of this method or others, consult your dermatologist. 

What should you do after a bath?

Don’t forgo the moisturizer! The “seal” part of the soak and seal method is vital. Dr. Yu advised, “Moisturizing immediately afterwards is often overlooked. Moisturize within 2–4 minutes if possible. The skin dries the fastest after taking a bath and lathering on that thick moisturizer immediately afterwards will prevent drying of the skin.” 

There are few different types of moisturizers to consider. NEA’s Seal of Acceptance™ is given to moisturizers free of fragrance, dyes and other common allergens. Additionally, thick ointments or creams allow for the best for hydration. Alternative remedies, like sunflower oil, may also improve your skin barrier and may be applied directly after a bath to help the skin retain moisture. so be sure to apply it in a timely manner. 

How often should you bathe if you have eczema?

Dr. Yu said that caregivers of children with eczema often ask this question. He shared that “There is really no evidence to suggest that bathing daily versus less frequently helps or hurts eczema. However, the most important thing to remember is to moisturize immediately afterwards. I also tell parents that if the child is visibly dirty or has environmental allergies and has come in contact with possible allergens, it’s best to wash off those potential triggers for an eczema flare.” If you’d like more guidance about how often to bathe with eczema, consult your doctor.

In sum, bathing is an important way to care for your skin barrier that can be a part of your regular routine. Get back to the basics by implementing a bath regimen, and don’t forget to moisturize!