Health
Eczema and Bathing: What You Need to Know
Health Points
- Frequent bathing does not worsen eczema symptoms, according to new research.
- Moisturizing immediately after bathing is essential for skin comfort.
- Bathing habits can be based on individual preference and comfort.
New findings show that people with eczema can choose their bathing frequency without fearing extra irritation. Experts recommend focusing on comfort and good skin care rather than rigid bathing rules.
“You have freedom to choose how often you bathe — daily or weekly — without worrying that one option will make your eczema worse,” says Tanya Evans, MD, dermatologist and medical director of the Skin Cancer Program at Saddleback Medical Center.
Eczema refers to chronic skin conditions that cause dryness, itching, and inflammation, affecting adults as well as children. The latest study separated more than 400 participants into groups bathing daily or weekly and found no difference in symptoms after four weeks.
Conflicting advice has left many people puzzled about how often to bathe with eczema. A 2020 study also noted confusion among parents of children with eczema due to mixed bathing recommendations.
“Historically, the concern with frequent bathing has been that it may increase a process called transepidermal water loss (TEWL), worsening skin dryness and leading to more flares,” says Oyetewa Asempa, MD, assistant professor of dermatology at Baylor College of Medicine.
“However, multiple studies have shown that daily bathing does not increase the risk of flares, particularly if you apply a moisturizer right after you get out of the bath or shower.”
Children who bathed twice a day and used moisturizer experienced milder eczema than those who bathed less often. Evans finds the recent results surprising, as previous guidelines suggested less frequent bathing, but she emphasizes that effective skin care and moisturizing are what matter most.
The study only covered four weeks, so the long-term effects of frequent bathing are still unknown. Seasonal changes, humidity, and skin type may influence how often someone should bathe.
Dr. Asempa adds, “For example, Black patients may experience higher transepidermal water loss because of differences in the skin’s structure. These differences can affect how skin responds to frequent bathing.”
To care for eczema, use lukewarm water, keep showers or baths short, choose fragrance-free cleansers, and always moisturize immediately after bathing. The best moisturizer is the one you are comfortable using consistently.
“Just focus on gentle cleansing and keeping your skin hydrated. That is what helps keep eczema under control and your skin feeling comfortable.”
Let comfort and good skin care guide your bathing routine; gentle products and quick moisturizing go a long way for healthy, happy skin.
