October is Eczema Awareness Month, a global campaign dedicated to raising awareness, educating the public and supporting those who live with this chronic skin condition.

Eczema is extremely common, affecting men, women and children of all ages, all around the world. The National Eczema Association estimates that around 10% – 20% of children and infants, and 2% – 10% of adults, globally, suffer from eczema.  

Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a chronic, non-contagious, inflammatory skin disorder that can occur anywhere on the body and is influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, diet, lifestyle, environmental aggressors, irritants, and allergens.

It most commonly presents as dry, red, or discoloured patches of skin that are often scaly, thickened or blistering. Itchiness is the most burdensome symptom of this skin condition, and during a bad flare-up, the discomfort may become intense. Other symptoms include skin sensitivity or pain, tingling, burning and stinging sensations.

One critical thing eczema patients sometimes overlook is the importance of maintaining a healthy, strong skin barrier.

Our skin barrier – also known as the stratum corneum – consists of skin cells held together by lipids and fats. Think of it as a brick wall: our skin cells are the bricks, and fats like ceramides hold them in place like mortar. The skin barrier acts as our body’s outer shield. It keeps moisture locked in and blocks harmful bacteria and pathogens from entering our bodies through our skin.

When this “wall” is strong, skin feels soft and smooth, calm and happy. However, when the wall is damaged, moisture escapes and irritants enter, leaving skin red, sensitive or irritable. A skin barrier can become compromised or damaged in many ways, including over-exfoliating, overusing potent or harsh ingredients, scalding the skin with hot water, or exposure to dry weather and pollution.

Eczema and a damaged skin barrier are closely linked. Eczema weakens the skin’s protective outer layer and, in some cases, results from a genetic lack of ceramides (the fats that act as mortar). When gaps form between the skin cells and moisture escapes, the allergens and irritants that enter the skin may trigger inflammation and itching. This can become a vicious cycle: while eczema weakens the skin barrier, a damaged skin barrier is also the perfect place for eczema to flare up.

Like most chronic skin conditions, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all magical solution to heal and cure the skin. However, to relieve eczema symptoms and strengthen the skin, the best place you can start is by repairing the skin barrier. 

Repairing a damaged skin barrier means simplifying your skincare routine and pausing active ingredients and exfoliants. Switch to a mild, fragrance-free cleanser and wash your skin with lukewarm water – avoid hot water entirely. 

One of the most important things you can do for an impaired barrier is to moisturise. Look for serums and moisturisers containing essential lipids like ceramides and fatty acids, and lock in moisture with a humectant like hyaluronic acid or glycerine. Apply a gentle mineral SPF daily, as UV exposure may increase skin sensitivity and slow healing. 

Mild skin barrier damage may improve after a week or two, while more severe damage and irritation may take several weeks to heal. 

Repairing your skin barrier is the perfect place to start, but in addition to this, your skin will also benefit from small lifestyle changes: 

Don’t scratch:

Eczema can itch, but it’s important to avoid scratching. While it offers temporary relief, scratching can damage the skin, leading to inflammation and infection. A cool compress may help soothe itching, and some people find relief by taking an oral antihistamine. 

Prescription medication:

For severe eczema, your doctor may prescribe topical cortisone or steroid creams. These should be applied as directed by your medical practitioner. 

Healthy lifestyle:

Making healthy lifestyle choices may also help in managing eczema. Stress is a common trigger for flare-ups, so managing stress and using relaxation techniques is important. Quit smoking and try to keep your home free from smoke and dust. Avoid indoor heaters where possible, as they can dry out the skin.  

Healthy diet:

Anti-inflammatory, whole foods are good for eczema-prone skin because they reduce inflammation and support the skin barrier. This includes fatty fish, colourful fruits and vegetables, whole grains and probiotic or fermented foods. Foods that may potentially trigger eczema flare-ups include dairy, gluten and wheat, nuts and soy and processed foods high in sugar and salt. 

If you suspect you may have eczema, or you struggle to manage chronic eczema, it’s best to consult your medical practitioner for a diagnosis and a treatment plan that meets your skin’s unique needs. While there sadly isn’t a cure for eczema yet, there are plenty of ways to manage the condition and avoid flare-ups.