Eczema Knowledge Hub

Eczema anywhere on the body is uncomfortable. But eczema on the face brings its own particular challenges. It is visible, hard to hide, and can affect confidence in ways that go well beyond the skin. For babies and young children, a red, raw face can be deeply distressing for the whole family.

Where eczema appears on the face

In babies, eczema most commonly starts on the cheeks and forehead. In older children and adults, it tends to appear around the eyelids, eyebrows, the folds beside the nose, around the lips, and on the scalp. Scalp involvement can cause flaking that looks similar to dandruff.^[1]

Eyelid eczema deserves special mention. The skin around the eyes is among the thinnest on the body, which makes it particularly vulnerable and slow to heal. It also comes into contact with many potential irritants — eye makeup, eye drops, and airborne allergens like dust mite particles and pollen.^[2,3] If the eyelids are red, swollen, and itchy, this is worth discussing with a doctor sooner rather than later.

Why the face is tricky to treat

Facial skin is thinner than skin elsewhere on the body, which means it absorbs topical treatments more quickly and can be more sensitive to side effects. Steroid creams used on the face need to be milder, and should only be used for short periods as directed by a healthcare professional.^[1] Non-steroid prescription alternatives are often preferred for facial use, especially around the eyes.

Caring for eczema-prone facial skin

A few practical steps can make a real difference day to day:

• Moisturise regularly. Apply a fragrance-free moisturiser to the face at least twice a day, and always after washing.
• Use a soap-free face wash. Regular soaps and many cleansers strip the skin barrier. Look for products designed for sensitive or eczema-prone skin.
• Be careful with makeup. Fragrances, preservatives, and certain pigments in cosmetics can trigger flares. Mineral-based, fragrance-free products tend to be better tolerated.
• Protect from the elements. Cold air, wind, and sun can all aggravate facial eczema. A gentle fragrance-free SPF daily and a scarf in cold weather can help.

If facial eczema is frequent, severe, or affecting the eyes, see a dermatologist. The face needs extra care, and the right treatment approach really matters.