Five Eczema Myths Debunked: What Every Parent Should Know

As parents of little ones with eczema, there are many myths and misconceptions that can get thrown our way about the condition – it can make it hard to sort fact from fiction! Today, we want to debunk five eczema myths and share some helpful facts to support you on your family’s eczema journey.

Eczema Myth #1: Eczema is contagious

This myth can be particularly frustrating and heartbreaking for parents, as it creates unnecessary stigma around the condition. Eczema is not contagious, and there’s no way it can spread from person to person through skin contact. Research shows that eczema is linked to a combination of genetic and environmental factors – it isn’t an infectious condition.

Eczema Myth #2: I have/had eczema, so my child will too

It’s true that if you have a family history of eczema, your child might have an increased chance of developing the condition. However, that doesn’t mean it will definitely happen. According to the Eczema Association of Australasia, if both parents have eczema, there’s up to an 80% chance that their little ones may also develop eczema.

Eczema Myth #3: Eczema goes away on its own

Some children might eventually ‘grow out of’ their eczema as they get older, but others may have flare-ups throughout their lives. It’s important to manage eczema symptoms and triggers as they arise rather than ignoring them and hoping that eczema will go away on its own. Ignoring the issue can lead to the skin becoming more itchy, leading to more scratching and inflammation (known as 'the itch-scratch cycle') and the possibility of broken skin and infections. Developing a consistent nourishing skincare routine, working with your medical professional to develop an eczema management plan, and identifying and avoiding triggers are essential to help control eczema.

Eczema Myth #4: Eczema is just itchy skin; it’s no big deal

Eczema is so much more than dry or itchy skin. It can take a huge physical and emotional toll not just on our eczema-prone little ones but on the whole family. The intense itch that comes with eczema is uncomfortable for our children to experience and can result in infections, disrupt sleep and affect their quality of life. The mental load of managing eczema triggers and treatments can also weigh heavily on parents. If this is you – please know that we see you! 

Eczema Myth #5: There's a cure for eczema

While there are many treatments available to help with the uncomfortable symptoms associated with eczema and ways to help control and minimise flare-ups, sadly, there is currently no ‘cure’ for eczema. A consistent skincare routine to help moisturise and protect the skin and avoiding triggers are both key to managing eczema flare-ups.

This blog post was brought to you and your family with love from the Itchy Baby Co. team x.

Disclaimer: Information provided is of a general nature only, and you should always consult your medical professional.