Every October, Eczema Awareness Month shines a light on a skin condition that affects over 31 million people in the United States. While eczema is often associated with red, itchy patches, it’s more than just dry skin. It’s a chronic, inflammatory condition that can deeply affect a person’s physical comfort and emotional wellbeing.
Whether you’ve been living with eczema for years or you’re learning about it for the first time, this month offers an opportunity to learn how to support sensitive, eczema-prone skin with care and compassion.
In this guide, we’ll explore what eczema is, common triggers, how to care for your skin during flare-ups, and soothing body care rituals that help strengthen the skin barrier.
What Is Eczema?
Eczema is a general term that refers to a group of conditions that cause the skin to become inflamed, itchy, and irritated. The most common form is atopic dermatitis, which is often chronic and tends to flare periodically.
Symptoms of eczema can include:
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Dry, scaly skin
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Intense itching
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Redness and inflammation
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Cracked or oozing skin in severe cases
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Thickened patches of skin from chronic scratching
It can appear anywhere on the body but is commonly found on the hands, elbows, knees, neck, and around the eyes.
What Causes Eczema?
There is no single cause, but several factors contribute to eczema:
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A weakened skin barrier
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Genetic predisposition
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Immune system overreaction
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Environmental irritants
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Allergens or harsh ingredients
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Stress or hormonal fluctuations
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Weather changes, especially dry or cold air
People with eczema often have a compromised skin barrier, which allows moisture to escape and irritants to enter more easily. That’s why barrier support is one of the most important goals in eczema-friendly skincare.
Common Triggers to Avoid
Understanding your personal eczema triggers is key to managing symptoms. Some of the most common triggers include:
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Fragrance in skincare or laundry detergent
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Alcohol-based body sprays or toners
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Rough fabrics like wool or synthetic blends
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Sudden changes in temperature
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Hot water during bathing
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Stress or lack of sleep
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Certain foods or allergens (in some cases)
Even something as simple as overwashing or using a heavily fragranced bar soap can lead to flare-ups. That’s why gentle, nourishing care is essential.
How to Build a Body Care Routine for Eczema-Prone Skin
A thoughtful, consistent routine can help minimize flare-ups and reduce irritation. Here’s how to care for eczema-prone skin from head to toe.
1. Keep Showers Short and Lukewarm
Hot water can strip away protective oils, so opt for lukewarm showers no longer than 10 minutes. Use your hands or a soft washcloth instead of a harsh sponge.
2. Use a Gentle Cleanser or Body Wash
Look for unscented, soap-free cleansers that are pH-balanced. Choose formulas with ceramides, glycerin, or colloidal oatmeal for extra soothing.
Avoid bar soaps that leave your skin squeaky or tight.
3. Moisturize Immediately After Showering
This is one of the most important steps. Pat your skin dry with a soft towel, then apply body butter or cream within three minutes to lock in moisture.
Choose fragrance-free, rich formulas with:
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Sweet almond oil
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Shea butter
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Ceramides
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Squalane
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Sunflower seed oil
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Niacinamide for redness and barrier repair
Manjeri Skincare’s Sweet Almond Body Butter is gentle enough for sensitive skin and rich in nourishing ingredients that support hydration and softness.
4. Spot Treat Itchy Areas with Extra Barrier Support
Use a thicker balm or ointment on cracked or irritated spots. You can also try layering your regular moisturizer with a calming oil like sunflower or coconut to seal it in.
5. Wear Soft, Breathable Clothing
Opt for cotton or bamboo fabrics that allow the skin to breathe. Avoid scratchy seams, tight elastic, or synthetic fibers that can trap sweat and trigger flare-ups.
Best Soothing Ingredients for Eczema-Prone Skin
If you’re shopping for body care during Eczema Awareness Month, look for these barrier-loving ingredients:
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Colloidal oatmeal: Reduces itching and inflammation
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Niacinamide: Calms redness and strengthens the skin barrier
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Ceramides: Restore lost lipids and retain moisture
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Sunflower seed oil: High in linoleic acid, which is ideal for repairing the skin
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Shea butter: Deeply moisturizing and rich in fatty acids
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Aloe vera: Cooling and anti-inflammatory
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Panthenol (Vitamin B5): Soothes and repairs
Fragrance-free is ideal, but if you prefer a light natural scent, look for essential oils in low concentrations and always patch test first.
Rituals That Help Calm Both Skin and Mind
Managing eczema isn’t just about the skin. Stress is one of the most common triggers, and daily self-care rituals can help ease both physical discomfort and emotional tension.
Here are gentle ways to turn your routine into a moment of calm:
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Take evening showers to relax and rinse off allergens from the day
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Use warm compresses on itchy spots instead of scratching
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Do a slow, five-minute body massage with body butter before bed
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Add calming music, breathing exercises, or herbal tea to your evening ritual
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Keep your skincare in the fridge for a cooling effect during flare-ups
When to See a Dermatologist
If your eczema becomes severe, spreads rapidly, or causes broken skin or infection, it’s time to see a dermatologist. Prescription treatments like topical steroids, immunomodulators, or antihistamines may be necessary.
But for mild to moderate cases, a consistent home routine built around hydration, barrier repair, and gentle care can make a significant difference.
How to Support the Eczema Community This Month
In honor of Eczema Awareness Month, consider taking the following steps:
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Share educational resources or skincare tips on your social platforms
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Support Black-owned or small skincare brands that offer sensitive-skin options
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Educate friends and family that eczema is not contagious and deserves compassion
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Donate to organizations like the National Eczema Association
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Take time to listen to those living with chronic skin conditions
Your words and awareness can make a difference.
Eczema Awareness Month is a powerful reminder that skincare isn’t just cosmetic, it’s health care. For those with eczema, everyday routines are about more than glow. They’re about comfort, confidence, and feeling safe in your own skin.
This October, take the time to slow down, nourish your skin, and honor the body you live in. Whether you experience eczema yourself or support someone who does, gentle body care and barrier repair go a long way.
