Frequently Asked Questions

We've developed an easy way to help you find answers to questions you may have about eczema. Click on any of the questions below to see the answer.

	Are there any tests to determine if I have eczema?
	Can I catch eczema from someone?
	How early can babies show signs of eczema?
	Is 'Cradle cap' the same as eczema?
	Why do I get eczema as a teenager? I don’t think I had it as a child.
	Will my child outgrow atopic eczema?
	Can types of clothing aggravate eczema?
	What kind of soaps should I be using for eczema?
	Are steroid (cortisone) creams a safe treatment for eczema?
	Can I go swimming or expose the eczema affected skin to the sun?
	Is a bath a good idea when eczema flares?
	When the eczema has cleared up, should I leave the spot alone?

Are there any tests to determine if I have eczema?

Unlike many of today’s conditions, there are no blood tests to determine whether eczema is present. Visible signs of broken skin or a rash are the only symptoms. However, your doctor will take into account your medical and family history and may conduct some tests to rule out the possibility of other conditions.

Can I catch eczema from someone?

Eczema is NOT contagious. You cannot get it touching someone with eczema. You cannot get it sharing towels. You cannot get it eating from the same utensils. It is not an infectious disease. It is a skin condition brought on by many influences or a unique combination of influences. Most often, eczema occurs when there is:

1. a family history of allergies, asthma or eczema
2. presence of irritants in the air or to the skin
3. a unique sensitivity to any number of irritants

How early can babies show signs of eczema?

Eczema can show up in babies from two to four months of age. Infantile atopic eczema commonly affects the face and neck, knees or elbows or behind ears. Ask your doctor about steroid-free creams.

Is 'Cradle cap' the same as eczema?

Why do I get eczema as a teenager? I don’t think I had it as a child.

It’s worth checking into your family background. Even if you don’t recall suffering symptoms, your parents may recall otherwise. Remember, some forms of eczema show up early (within a few months after birth), but can clear up in a few years. You still may have a hereditary predisposition to developing eczema at any age. What’s more, external irritants (like dust mites, certain fabrics, perhaps foods) could trigger this skin reaction. See your doctor with concerns.

Will my child outgrow atopic eczema?

As babies and children get older, particularly after age 5, 60 to 70% of them outgrow eczema. While some people continue to show signs throughout teen years or even adulthood, flares tend to lessen or only be triggered by certain irritants – like stress, pollens or certain fabrics.

Can types of clothing aggravate eczema?

Yes! Synthetic fabrics or wool can contribute to skin irritation and itchiness. Loose-fitting, 100% cotton (for bedding as well as clothes) is best because it reduces sweating and allows the skin to “breathe.” Wash new clothing in pH neutral detergent before wearing to soften and remove any residual dyes.

What kind of soaps should I be using for eczema?

Most soaps are too harsh for eczema sufferers, contributing to dry skin making them more prone to eczema outbreaks (or flares). Soap substitutes, like water based creams (Sorbolene, as an example) are preferable, followed by moisturisers or emollients to reduce itching, scaling and scratching. People with sensitive skin should also avoid perfumes, detergents and solvents.

Are steroid (cortisone) creams a safe treatment for eczema?

Topical steroids, when used correctly, are generally safe when used for short periods. The worries of some topical steroids leading to thinning of the skin or causing spiderweb wrinkles are not an issue when applied sparingly and not for prolonged periods --only until the condition clears. Always follow your doctor or pharmacist’s instructions when using steroid creams.

Can I go swimming or expose the eczema affected skin to the sun?

Sea water may be therapeutic with its natural minerals. In a pool, chlorine may irritate sensitive skin. Apply a moisturiser before swimming and shower after.

The sun, in moderation, can also be helpful. However, use of an appropriate sun block is important (many are created to be well tolerated by sensitive skin). Remember also to “keep cool” either by wearing a loose t-shirt and cool down the skin regularly with damp towels.

Is a bath a good idea when eczema flares?

A bath is usually better than a shower because you avoid vigorous scrubbing. As long as the bath water is not too hot (which tends to dry skin) and contains bath oil, short baths help keep the skin free of bacteria which may worsen eczema or aggravate itching. It is recommended to apply moisturisers or emollients after bathing or showering.

When the eczema has cleared up, should I leave the spot alone?

What is eczema?

Is it eczema? (questionnaire)