Adult Eczema: What It Is, Why It Happens & How to Care for It

Adult Eczema: What It Is, Why It Happens & How to Care for It

Struggling with dry, itchy, sensitive skin as an adult?

Eczema is a common skin condition that many adults face in their daily lives.

If you’ve been wondering why your skin suddenly reacts, flakes, or itches uncontrollably, you might be dealing with eczema.

 

What Is Adult Eczema?

Eczema (or atopic dermatitis) is a chronic skin condition that leads to dryness, inflammation, redness, and itchiness. While it's often associated with children, many adults either continue to experience it or develop it later in life.

Common Causes of Adult Eczema:

  • A weakened skin barrier
  • Genetics and family history
  • Environmental triggers like dust, heat, or pollution
  • Stress and hormonal changes
  • Harsh skincare or over-washing
  • Diet and lifestyle imbalances

 

 

Eczema comes and goes, but flare-ups can be intense and emotionally exhausting, hence proper care is essential.

 

 

 

What Does Adult Eczema Look Like?

Eczema can show up differently in adults compared to children, and it often affects the hands, neck, face, elbows, knees, and even eyelids. You may notice:

  • Red, dry, or flaky patches
  • Thickened, rough skin from scratching
  • Cracks or open sores in severe cases
  • Itchy skin that gets worse at night
  • Darkened patches due to repeated irritation

 

 

How to Manage Adult Eczema (Without Making It Worse)

The best way to manage eczema comes from protecting and reinforcing the skin barrier, not from harsh treatments that damage it. 

 

Step 1: Cleanse Gently

Dermally Hydrating Barrier Wash

A soap-free, pH-balanced cleanser made for ultra-sensitive and eczema-prone skin.

 

- pH 5.5

- No SLS/SLES

- Soap-free & non-comedogenic

- Helps maintain moisture while removing impurities


Using a harsh cleanser can worsen eczema.
This gentle formula ensures your skin stays calm without tightness or itching after washing.



Step 2: Moisturize & Strengthen

Dermally Intensive Barrier Lotion


Lightweight but deeply hydrating, this lotion is designed to protect and rebuild the skin barrier.

 

- Contains emollients and skin barrier-repairing ingredients

- Non-sticky and fast-absorbing

- Suitable to use on face and body

- Ideal for daily care or flare-up recovery


Dispense a small amount and spread evenly across the skin. Gently massage it into the skin using circular motions until it is fully absorbed. For optimal results, reapply as often as needed to maintain hydration and protection.

 

Extra Tips for Eczema Relief:

  • Keep showers under 10 minutes, and use lukewarm water
  • Moisturize immediately after cleansing
  • Wear soft, breathable fabrics like cotton
  • Prioritize soothing ingredients such as Panthenol and Vitamin E to strengthen skin barrier naturally
  • Pay attention to potential triggers including certain foods, stressful situations, or changing weather conditions.
  • Avoid scratching your skin and press it with a cool compress instead

 

When to See a Dermatologist

Seek medical advice if your eczema doesn't improve with skincare, symptoms become painful, swollen, infection or worsens over time. Dermatologists can help with prescription creams or other treatments that’s suitable for your skin.

 

You Deserve Comfort In Your Skin

While adult eczema can be challenging to manage, proper care helps restore your skin's comfort, hydration, and overall health.


At Dermally, everyone deserves healthy skin.
We're committed to making those with sensitive skin feel visible, supported, and secure in their skincare journey.

 

 

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