No, hot water is not good for eczema. Hot water dries out the skin, worsening eczema symptoms like itching and dryness. Lukewarm water is recommended for bathing or showering.
Understanding the Impact of Hot Water on Eczema
Multiple sources confirm that hot water damages the skin barrier, exacerbating eczema. This damage stems from the stripping of essential oils and moisture from the skin.
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Skin Barrier Damage: Hot water disrupts the skin's protective barrier, leading to increased dryness and irritation. [This is supported by multiple sources, including the National Eczema Association and Healthline.](https://www.healthline.com/health/eczema/eczema-hot-water, https://nationaleczema.org/eczema/treatment/bathing/)
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Increased Dryness and Itching: The loss of moisture caused by hot water intensifies itching, a hallmark symptom of eczema. This cycle of itching and scratching further damages the skin. Medical News Today and the Better Health Channel corroborate this effect.
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Exacerbated Symptoms: Hot water can trigger or worsen eczema flare-ups. Even though the immediate sensation of hot water may feel temporarily relieving, the long-term consequences are detrimental. [This is consistent with findings from numerous sources, including Healthline and the Reddit discussion on eczema.](https://www.healthline.com/health/eczema/eczema-hot-water, https://www.reddit.com/r/eczema/comments/pja11r/why_does_burning_hot_water_feel_so_good_on_my/)
Recommended Bathing Practices for Eczema
Instead of hot water, use lukewarm water for bathing or showering. This gentler approach helps retain skin moisture and minimizes irritation.
- Lukewarm Water: Opt for lukewarm water to maintain skin hydration.
- Short Showers/Baths: Limit bath or shower time to avoid excessive skin drying.
- Mild Cleansers: Use soap-free, gentle cleansers formulated for sensitive skin.
- Moisturize Immediately: Apply moisturizer immediately after showering or bathing while the skin is still damp to lock in hydration.
While some studies suggest that very hot water might provide temporary relief by releasing histamine, the damage caused far outweighs any short-lived benefit.
