If you're reading this, you've likely experienced the itch, redness and frustration that comes with eczema. It's more than just dry skin! The inflamed patches, flakiness, and hyperpigmentation left behind can take a toll on your skin's appearance. 

But don't lose hope - with the right approach to skincare and wellness, it is absolutely possible to improve the look and feel of eczema-prone skin.

What is Eczema?

Before we dive into solutions, let's get clear on what exactly eczema is. Eczema - also known as atopic dermatitis - is an incredibly common skin condition. It's estimated over 200 million people worldwide currently deal with some form of eczema on their skin. While there are different types, atopic dermatitis is the most prevalent.

So what causes eczema to flare up in the first place? The root causes are multifaceted - genetics can play a role, as can environmental stressors and allergens. It's not easy to just say that there's a single cause (and that would also be the job of your doctor)! However, we can tell that there's more than one factor at play. 

While not a direct cause of eczema, we know that a weakened moisture barrier doesn't help. That's why in this blog post, we'll be suggesting products and tips to help keep this essential skin structure intact. 

This disruption manifests as those telltale symptoms we know all too well - patches of dry, itchy, red and flaky skin. In more severe cases, the skin may even crack and ooze. While intensely uncomfortable (that itch is no joke!), the good news is these flare-ups are not contagious.

Is Eczema Contagious?

You can't "catch" eczema from someone else, as it's not an infection. Rather, it's the skin's inflammatory response to various triggers. Knowing it's not contagious can provide some peace of mind, even when your skin feels anything but peaceful!

Why Eczema Affects Skin Appearance

Now that we know what eczema is and how it surfaces, let's talk about why it takes such a visible toll. During an eczema flare, the skin's delicate moisture barrier becomes compromised. This allows irritants in and precious hydration out, leaving skin dehydrated and vulnerable.

Chronic inflammation is at the core of eczema's effects on appearance. The redness, flaking and swelling is the result of inflammatory chemicals being released in the skin. Over time, this constant cycle of flare-ups can lead to issues like lichenification (thickened skin) and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation - those stubborn dark marks that linger long after a patch has healed.

Skincare Strategies to Improve the Appearance of Eczema

So how can we break this cycle and restore the skin's healthy appearance? A gentle, strategic skincare regimen is key. When it comes to eczema, supporting the skin's barrier should be priority number one.

This means reaching for products with occlusive and humectant ingredients - occlusives like shea butter help seal moisture in, while humectants like glycerin attract water to the skin. Shea butter is an incredible ingredient in many products because it is just SO good at locking in moisture! 

When browsing the skincare aisle, keep an eye out for these soothing superstars:

• Panthenol (a form of vitamin B5) works by improving the skin's barrier function, increasing hydration and reducing water loss. Panthenol-rich products are an unsung hero for reviving eczema-parched skin.
  
  
• Colloidal Oatmeal: long used as a folk remedy for itchy skin, has anti-inflammatory properties that calm redness and soothe irritation. Plus, it helps strengthen the skin's natural barrier.
  
  
• Centella Asiatica: a favorite among K-beauty enthusiasts, is rich in antioxidants that help diminish visible redness. Centella skincare has even been shown to increase collagen synthesis - a boon for skin worn down by chronic flare-ups.

You may also want to go for fragrance-free formulas to minimise potential irritation. The Murad Exasoothe line is tailored for compromised, eczema-prone skin. One of our top picks is the Murad Hydration Exasoothe Quick Relief Moisture Treatment. 

It can be used EVERYWHERE - on your face, on your eyelids, and even on your body. This liquid gold has 5% colloidal oatmeal to seriously soothe skin. 

Of course, knowing what to use is only half the battle. The other half is knowing how to use it. When putting together an eczema-friendly skincare routine, keep it simple and consistent.

Start with a creamy, non-foaming cleanser to remove dirt and bacteria without stripping precious oils. Follow with a fragrance-free moisturiser to rehydrate and restore. Our pick is the Murad Exasoothe Soothing Oat & Peptide Cleanser. Like the Exasoothe cream, it contains Oat as a key ingredient, but also peptides in a non-irritating formula to help rebuild your skin barrier. 

For an extra dose of TLC, layer a barrier-repair cream over top - look for formulas with ceramides to help rebuild the skin's natural defenses.

Top tip for your skin - always patch test new products and add them one at a time. This will help you identify any potential triggers and build a reliable routine. During active flare-ups, you may need to moisturise multiple times per day. But don't overdo it - inflamed skin is sensitive skin.

The Gut-Skin Connection: Collagen and Eczema Appearance

The right skincare products are essential for getting eczema under control, but it's just one piece of the puzzle. Emerging research has begun to unveil the fascinating connection between our gut and skin health.

At the center of this connection is the "leaky gut" theory. When the gut's lining becomes compromised (often due to stress, poor diet, or imbalance of bacteria), foreign substances can "leak" into the bloodstream. This triggers an inflammatory response that shows up in various ways - including via pesky skin conditions like eczema.

That's where collagen comes in. This hardworking protein is a building block for healthy skin, helping to keep it hydrated, firm and elastic. Collagen also plays a vital role in maintaining the intestinal barrier, preventing that dreaded "leaky gut."

Some early studies have shown promise for collagen supplementation in the treatment of eczema. While more research is needed, the gut-skin link is one worth exploring.

Lifestyle Tips to Complement Skincare for Eczema Appearance

Skincare and gut health are two central tenets of a holistic eczema-fighting plan, but don't discount the impact of daily habits. The choices we make around stress, sleep, diet and even clothing can all affect how our skin looks and feels.

Stress is a major trigger for most inflammatory skin conditions, eczema included. Finding healthy ways to unwind is essential. Whether it's through meditation, yoga, journaling or spending time in nature, make stress reduction a regular practice.

Sleep is another underrated skin savior. Getting enough beauty rest gives your skin time to restore itself. Aim for 7-9 hours per night in a cool, humidified room (hot, dry environments can exacerbate eczema patches).

When it comes to diet, focus on eating a wide range of colorful, anti-inflammatory foods. Load up on antioxidant-rich fruits and veggies, healthy fats like olive oil and avocado, and skin-supporting nutrients like vitamin C and omega-3s. Some people find their eczema improves when they limit inflammatory triggers like sugar, dairy and gluten.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can eczema go away on its own? 

For some people, eczema does get better with age. However, it's a chronic condition that tends to ebb and flow with intermittent flare-ups over a lifetime. Following a gentle skincare routine, managing stress, and identifying triggers can help minimise eczema's impact on skin's appearance.

Are natural remedies effective for eczema? 

Some people find natural remedies like coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, or oatmeal baths to be soothing during a flare-up. However, it's important to remember that "natural" doesn't always mean safe for sensitive skin. Patch test any DIY treatments and discontinue if you experience further irritation.

What ingredients should I avoid if I have eczema? 

Steer clear of common irritants like fragrances, dyes, sulfates, and preservatives. Alcohol-based products can also sting and dry out already parched skin. Always check labels carefully and when in doubt, opt for a shorter ingredient list.

Can diet really affect eczema? 

While the exact role of diet in eczema is still being researched, some studies suggest that certain foods may trigger or worsen flare-ups in some people. Common culprits include dairy, eggs, soy, and wheat. Tune into your own body and keep a food journal to help identify patterns.

How long does it take to see improvement in eczema appearance? 

Healing takes time, so try to be patient with your progress. With consistent care, you may start to see improvement in eczema's appearance within a few weeks. Most people notice a significant difference by the 3 month mark of an eczema-friendly skincare routine. But don't get discouraged by the occasional flare-up - stay the course with self care.

Living with eczema is no walk in the park, but there's a lot you can do to improve it's appearance and feel more at home in your skin. By focusing on barrier repair, making strategic skincare choices, tuning into the gut-skin connection, and embracing lifestyle changes, calm and comfortable skin is within reach.

Remember, you're not alone in this journey! With a little patience and lot of self-love, it's absolutely possible to help your skin look and feel its best - eczema and all.