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Eczema On The Neck: Symptoms, Triggers, And Treatment
09/20/20228 min read
Eczema on the neck can be a frustrating condition. Not only is it unsightly and hard to hide, but it can also be quite uncomfortable.
To help you better manage your eczema, we’ll share symptoms associated with the condition. We’ll also help you pinpoint potential triggers that can worsen your skin. Finally, we’ll give you an overview of treatments that can help lessen the symptoms of eczema on your neck.
Table Of Contents
What Is Eczema?
Eczema is a general term for a group of chronic skin conditions that cause the skin to become inflamed or irritated. For example, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, and seborrheic dermatitis are all types of eczema.
Scientists believe that a combination of genetic and environmental factors causes eczema. People with specific genes are more likely to develop eczema, but it’s still unclear what triggers the condition.
It’s not contagious, so you can’t catch eczema from someone else. However, you're more likely to develop the condition if a parent or close relative has it.
Eczema can be a chronic condition that can last for months or even years, but your symptoms may also come and go. When they do reappear, it’s referred to as a flare-up.
Where Can Eczema Occur?
Eczema can occur anywhere on the body, but you’ll usually notice the dry, scaly patches on your face, hands, and feet. It can also appear on the neck, often called "neck eczema."
Symptoms Of Eczema On The Neck
Your symptoms can vary depending on your type of eczema and the severity of your condition. Some common signs include:
- Dry, scaly skin
- Itching
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Red or inflamed skin
- Crusting or oozing
In some cases, eczema on the neck can also cause:
- Swelling
- Pain
- Bleeding
- Cracking or fissures in the skin
Also, keep in mind that the symptoms of neck eczema aren't always physical. This skin condition can also cause emotional distress, particularly in children and adolescents.
Eczema can be very visible and its symptoms challenging to hide, especially on your neck. This can lead to feelings of self-consciousness and embarrassment.
Eczema Triggers
Several things can trigger or worsen eczema symptoms. These triggers are different for everyone, so paying attention to your body and figuring out what sets off your flare-ups is important.
Here are some common triggers to start tracking.
Dry Skin
When your skin is dry, it's more likely to become irritated and inflamed. This can happen due to harsh weather conditions, central heating, or not drinking enough fluids during the day.
If you’re prone to eczema on your neck, keep this area moisturized. Use an eczema-friendly moisturizer, such as our Eczema Daily Calming Cream, to provide deep hydration for your skin.
You’ll also want to drink plenty of water daily to hydrate yourself from the inside out.
Irritants
Certain substances can irritate the skin and cause eczema flare-ups. These substances are known as irritants and include:
- Soaps
- Detergents
- Fabric softeners
- Wool or synthetic fabrics
- Cigarette smoke
- Harsh chemicals
If you have eczema on your neck, the best thing to do is avoid these irritants. Look for hypoallergenic alternatives when possible.
Contact Allergies
It's common for people with eczema to develop allergies to certain substances. When you come into contact with one of your allergens, it can make your eczema worse.
Common contact allergies include:
- Nickel and other metals
- Fragrances
- Preservatives
- Dyes
See an allergist for testing if you suspect you have a contact allergy. Once you know what you're allergic to, try to prevent exposure to those things.
Stress
When stressed, your body produces cortisol and other hormones that can make your skin more sensitive. This can lead to inflammation, which can worsen your eczema.
Treating Eczema On The Neck
While there isn't a cure for eczema, you can take steps to manage your symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
Home Remedies
Many people begin treating eczema with home remedies. These are helpful in mild cases and can relieve symptoms, such as dryness, itchiness, and redness.
These non-pharmaceutical treatments for eczema include:
- Coconut oil
- Colloidal oatmeal
- Honey
- Tea tree oil
While you can apply these ingredients directly to your skin, you can also add them to baths or purchase products containing them, such as our Eczema Daily Calming Cream.
If home remedies aren't enough to manage your symptoms, you may need to pursue stronger options with your healthcare professional, such as the ones listed below.
Medicated Creams Or Ointments
Corticosteroids are the most common type of medicated cream used to treat eczema. They're available over the counter or by prescription. Either way, these ointments work by reducing inflammation and can provide relief from symptoms, such as itching and redness.
Of course, you'll need to apply the cream consistently to see results. And to ensure your eczema doesn’t return as quickly, always follow your doctor’s directions when starting or stopping topical steroids.
Other Medications
Topical steroids aren't the only medication used to treat eczema. In more severe cases, your doctor may prescribe medications such as:
- Anti-inflammatory medication. Eczema can cause inflammation throughout the body. These pills can provide relief from symptoms.
- Antibiotics. If your eczema becomes infected, you'll need antibiotics to clear the infection.
- Biologics.< Biologics are a newer type of injectable medication that help treat eczema by targeting the immune system and reducing inflammation. You'll need to inject this medication.
- Steroids. Sometimes, your doctor may prescribe an oral or injectable steroid. However, these are typically only used for a short period to control severe symptoms.
Wet Dressings
Wet dressings are an alternative treatment that works for some people. You’ll need to soak a cloth or wrap in warm water to try it. Then, wrap it snugly around your affected area.
As the moisture from the wrap soaks into your skin, it might also:
- Reduce inflammation
- Prevent infection
- Encourage healing
Light Therapy
If other treatments haven't worked, your doctor may suggest light therapy. With this treatment, you'll sit under a special lamp that emits ultraviolet (UV) light. UV light helps reduce inflammation and can improve your symptoms.
Doctors usually do light therapy in their offices. But some people may be able to do it at home with a specific type of lamp.
Lifestyle Changes
While there's nothing you can do to completely cure your eczema, making some lifestyle changes can help you manage your symptoms. Here are some to try.
Use A Moisturizer Regularly
Eczema makes your skin dry, cracked, and itchy. Moisturizing regularly can help soothe these symptoms.
Look for a moisturizer with ingredients that are beneficial for your skin, such as niacinamide, colloidal oatmeal, and coconut oil. You'll also want one that can be used daily, such as our Eczema Daily Calming Cream.
Minimize Stress
Stress tends to exacerbate eczema, so it's important to find ways to manage your stress levels.
Use these activities to stay calm and in control of your mind and emotions:
- Yoga
- Meditation
- Breathing exercises
- Progressive muscle relaxation
- Going for a walk
- Spending time doing activities you love
The key is to find what relaxes you and stick with it. The lower you can keep your stress levels, the better your skin will respond.
Switch To Gentle Cleansers
If you have eczema, you'll want to avoid cleansers that are harsh on the skin. These can cause irritation and make your symptoms worse.
Opt for a gentle cleanser that won't strip your skin of its natural oils. For example, our Sensitive Skin Moisturizing Body Wash helps lock in moisture to keep your skin hydrated.
Avoid Allergens
As we mentioned earlier, allergies can trigger eczema symptoms. So, it's essential to avoid any potential allergens.
If you're not sure if you're allergic to something, talk to an allergist. They can perform a skin prick test or blood test to find out.
Choose Your Clothes Carefully
Certain fabrics can irritate your skin and make your eczema worse. You'll want to avoid clothing made from:
- Wool
- Polyester
- Acrylic
Cotton is usually the best fabric for people with eczema. But it's not the only gentle fabric on the market. Other options include:
- Hemp
- Linen
- Silk
No matter what your clothes are made of, avoid items that cling to your skin or are too tight. Instead, opt for loose-fitting clothing that's comfortable and won't aggravate your eczema.
Humidify Your Home
A humidifier in your home adds moisture to the air and, as a result, can help keep your skin from drying out and becoming irritated. Just be sure to clean it regularly to avoid bacteria buildup.
Eczema Triggers
Eczema on the neck can be frustrating. But, with the right treatment plan, you can manage your symptoms and regain confidence.
To help you take control of your skin, pick up our Eczema Daily Calming Cream and Sensitive Skin Moisturizing Body Wash today. Both products are designed to hydrate and soothe eczema-prone skin.
And remember, your eczema doesn't define you. So don't let it hold you back from living your best life!
Sources
Journal Of The American Association Of Dermatology National Eczema Association National Eczema Society
