Common Eczema Myths Debunked

Eczema is contagious

Eczema is a genetic condition and is not contagious. You cannot catch eczema simply by coming into contact with a person who has it. However, it is able to spread to other body parts on the same person. People with eczema are more prone to infections because defects in the skin barrier could allow germs in.

Since eczema is genetic, the chances of your baby getting it too is higher. According to a study in the November 2011 issue of The Journal of Pediatrics, 60% of eczema cases appear within the baby’s first year. However, reducing the chances of your baby having it is possible, by using moisturizers. A study from the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology concludes that daily use of moisturizer can in fact decrease a child’s likelihood of developing eczema.

Eczema is only a skin problem

Eczema is a bothersome condition that takes a huge emotional toll in the lives of those who have it. Researchers found that adults with eczema tend to become obese, suffer from insomnia, develop heart disease and diabetes. Because eczema often starts in early childhood and continue to adolescence, having the condition hurts their self-esteem and identity.

People with eczema can’t go swimming

This is certainly not true. Swimming pools have chlorine, which may actually help kill excess bacteria associated with your rash. Some people with eczema may that it irritates the skin more, but some find it soothing. If it irritates your skin, go for a freshwater bath instead. If chlorine sits well with you, just rinse off after you’re done swimming and put on a prescribed moisturizer.

Eczema is caused by stress

Stress does not actually cause eczema, but it can definitely trigger the skin condition and make it worse. When we experience a stressful situation, the body responds by producing cortisol. High cortisol level messes up the immune system and causes an inflammatory response, or the itchy symptom most common in eczema. Stress also causes the person with the condition to scratch even more, making the eczema worse.

Only medicines can cure eczema

While there are medicines out there than can reduce the symptoms, modifying your lifestyle is still the best way to go. People with eczema can bathe in lukewarm water with a hypoallergenic cleanser, and they can also wear 100% chemical-free organic cotton shirts, undergarments, and pants, which feel better on your skin even if you are not suffering from allergies or chemical sensitivities. In addition to this, some cotton clothing users say that organic cotton clothing smells better than the usual cotton types.