For years, people with eczema have debated whether frequent bathing worsens their condition. Now, a new study suggests that bathing frequency may not matter as much as previously thought. Dermatologists are revising their recommendations, emphasizing proper skin care over strict bathing schedules.
The Study: Daily vs. Weekly Baths
Researchers at the University of Nottingham conducted a randomized controlled trial involving over 400 eczema patients. Participants were split into two groups: one bathing daily, and the other weekly. After four weeks, the study found no significant difference in eczema symptoms between the two groups. This challenges the long-held belief that less frequent bathing is essential for managing eczema.
Why the Confusion? The History of Mixed Messaging
The conflicting advice stems from concerns about transepidermal water loss (TEWL) – the evaporation of moisture from the skin. Historically, frequent bathing was thought to worsen TEWL, leading to drier, more irritated skin. However, multiple studies now show that daily bathing doesn’t necessarily increase flare-ups, especially when followed by proper moisturizing.
A 2020 study found that children with eczema who bathed twice a day, followed by moisturizer, had less severe symptoms than those bathing twice a week. Dermatologists now believe that consistent skin care – rather than rigid bathing rules – is more important.
What Dermatologists Now Recommend
“This result highlights that comfort and consistency in skin care are more important than rigid rules about how often to bathe,” says Tanya Evans, MD, a dermatologist not involved in the study. The new findings are “somewhat surprising,” but make sense when considering proper post-bath care.
Important Considerations & Limitations
The study followed patients for only four weeks, so long-term effects remain unclear. Seasonal changes, humidity levels, and water hardness can also play a role.
Oyetewa Asempa, MD, notes that Black patients may experience higher TEWL due to differences in skin structure. This means individual responses to frequent bathing can vary.
The Key: Gentle Cleansing & Consistent Moisturizing
The most important takeaway is that people with eczema can bathe as often as they feel comfortable, as long as they follow these guidelines:
- Use lukewarm (not hot) water.
- Limit bath/shower time to 10-15 minutes.
- Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers.
- Apply moisturizer immediately after bathing while skin is still damp.
The specific type of moisturizer (cream, lotion, ointment) is less critical than consistent application. The goal is to keep skin hydrated and prevent dryness.
In conclusion, the latest research suggests that bathing frequency is not the primary factor in managing eczema. Gentle cleansing, consistent moisturizing, and individualized comfort are more important. Dermatologists are revising their advice to reflect this new understanding
