Minimalist but Effective: A Skincare Routine Suitable for Eczema

• Understanding Eczema and Its Causes
• Environmental Factors That Worsen Eczema
• Maintaining Clean Skin for Eczema Sufferers

Understanding Eczema and Its Causes

Eczema is an inflammatory skin disorder characterized by redness, rashes, and intense itching. Commonly referred to as dermatitis, this condition is non-contagious, and its exact cause remains unknown. Eczema can affect individuals of all ages, from children to adults, and may be triggered by external factors such as exposure to chemicals and microorganisms, as well as internal factors like atopic eczema.

The epidermis—particularly the stratum corneum—is the body's first line of defense against environmental exposure. It minimizes water loss and protects internal organs from harmful environmental effects. Its key protein, filaggrin, degrades into various by-products that serve as osmotic barriers to retain moisture. These by-products, known as natural moisturizing factors (NMFs), help maintain the skin's acidic pH, which provides antimicrobial benefits and supports enzyme function in ceramide metabolism and corneal layer differentiation. Mutations in the filaggrin gene have been identified as a major risk factor for the development of atopic dermatitis (AD).

Environmental Factors That Worsen Eczema

Environmental triggers that can increase the risk of eczema include irritants, allergens, microbes, extreme temperatures, certain foods, stress, and hormonal fluctuations. Skincare products for individuals with eczema cannot be treated the same as those for normal skin. Due to the compromised skin barrier, irritants, allergens, and microbes can more easily penetrate and trigger inflammation. 

Products used must be gentle, fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and have a pH close to the skin’s natural level (around 5.5). Maintaining skin barrier hydration is essential. Emollients and moisturizers help hydrate the skin and form an occlusive layer to retain moisture. These products are available in various forms such as creams, lotions, and balms, with their consistency selected based on the skin’s dryness level.

Maintaining Clean Skin for Eczema Sufferers

Proper skin hygiene is another important factor in preventing the worsening of symptoms. Bathing in lukewarm water (30–33°C) without detergents or abrasive sponges helps prevent excessive friction. Using oil-based cleansers with acidic or neutral pH (around 4–6) is highly recommended to help preserve the skin's pH and support microbiota balance. 

In cases of secondary infection, commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus, topical antibiotics such as mupirocin can be effective. Recent studies on Vitreoscilla filiformis (Vf), a photosynthetic bacterium, have shown that when used topically in cream formulations, it can significantly improve symptoms of atopic dermatitis. Patients using Vf cream demonstrated a notable reduction in SCORAD scores (a measure of AD severity), including decreased itching, sleep disturbances, and S. aureus colonization.

Vitamin B12 has shown potential as an effective treatment for atopic dermatitis due to its ability to neutralize nitric oxide, a harmful free radical, and act as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Clinical studies have confirmed its efficacy in reducing inflammation without significant side effects, even on sensitive skin.

Long-Term Management and the Future of Eczema Therapy

For eczema sufferers, long-term care and consistent management are essential. Current treatments typically focus on the use of moisturizers (emollients), topical corticosteroids, and mild immunosuppressive therapy to control inflammation, alongside the avoidance of known triggers. Additional treatments such as topical antibiotics and bleach baths are used in the case of secondary infections.

Looking ahead, emerging therapies include biologic drugs, topical probiotics like Vitreoscilla filiformis, and active ingredients such as vitamin B12 that offer anti-inflammatory benefits without significant side effects. Maintaining regular skin hydration, using gentle and irritant-free skincare products, and adopting a healthy lifestyle to support immune function are key steps for reducing flare-ups and improving overall quality of life.

Skin with eczema requires products that are truly gentle, safe, and proven to be non-irritating. Therefore, before your product is claimed to be suitable for sensitive skin or those with eczema, laboratory testing is mandatory. Safety testing, irritation testing, and pH and stability verification will ensure your formulation is safe for long-term use.

IML Research provides comprehensive product testing services to ensure every claim is scientifically substantiated. This test data can be used for regulatory and marketing purposes. Consult your product testing needs now and ensure your product is truly safe for sensitive skin.

Author: Delfia
Editor: Sabilla Reza

Reference:

Sala-Cunnil A. et al. 2018. Basic Skin Care and Topical Therapies for Atopic Dermatitis : Essential Approaches and Beyond. Journal of Investigational Allergology and Clinical Immunology. 379-391, 28(6).