Does eczema ever go away?

Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition marked by intense itching, dryness, redness, and scaly patches. (Envato Elements pic) In Malaysia, persistent symptoms can interfere significantly with a person's quality of life, affecting sleep, work, and emotional well-being if left untreated. Consultant dermatologist Dr Kartini Farah Rahim explained that while eczema in children is often linked to genetic factors, adults may develop it after repeated exposure to irritants like soaps, detergents, cosmetics, and household chemicals.

She emphasized that eczema is frequently misdiagnosed as ordinary itchiness, as the two conditions require different treatment approaches. Those with eczema typically develop dry, red, and scaly skin, and excessive scratching can damage the skin and increase the risk of infection, making a proper diagnosis crucial. Though food allergies are more common in infants with severe eczema, food-triggered eczema is relatively uncommon in adults.

Moisturisers, free from fragrances and certain chemicals, are the foundation for managing eczema. About 70% of children with eczema recover by adolescence, although some continue to experience flare-ups into adulthood, especially if they remain exposed to common triggers. For adults, especially those with frequent contact with water, soap, or chemicals in their work or household chores, Dr. Rahim recommends wearing protective gloves and minimizing exposure to known irritants.

She cautioned against relying on eczema treatments advertised on social media, as some "natural" products contain undeclared steroids, which can thin the skin with long-term use. Additionally, improper application of medication near the eyes could increase the risk of cataracts and glaucoma. Instead, she suggests using moisturisers free from fragrances and chemicals as the foundation for eczema care.

For more severe cases, techniques like wet-wrap therapy can help soothe inflamed skin, reduce itching, and lock in moisture, particularly in young children. The encouraging news is that advances in treatment, including biologic injections, now offer safer and more targeted therapies for patients with more severe eczema compared to the past.