Teen Eczema - A Parent's Guide

My advise to parents

As a GP, skin health expert, and mother, I understand how worrying it can be when your child’s skin starts to flare up and how confusing it can be to know the right steps to take, specially as there is so much scaremongering on social media at the moment and a real push against conventional science backed medicine.

Eczema is much more common than most people realise, affecting around 1 in 5 children and teenagers. It’s not “just dry skin”—eczema is an inflammatory condition that can be sore, itchy, and even impact a young person’s self-esteem if not managed properly. It's not just sensitive skin which can become itchy when in contact with certain products – it's an over-active immune disorder which is triggered by the weather, your mood, the environment, and of course products.

What Causes Eczema in Teens?
There isn’t one single cause. Genetics, environmental triggers (like pollen, dust, or soaps), stress, and changes during puberty can all contribute. 

How Eczema Can Affect Teenagers Emotionally
As a mother, I know teens already face huge pressure around their appearance. Flare-ups can make them feel self-conscious or isolated. It's important we treat eczema not just as a “skin issue” but as something that can impact their confidence and mental health. Dry skin is very uncomfortable as your skin can feel tight and leathery and simple movements can cause distress. The appearance of angry eczema and broken skin isn’t pleasant and can impact a young person's self-esteem. The constant need to itch – day and night – can impact sleep, mental health and school. Children can feel self-conscious about itching in front of people as unfortunately some people may think the rash is contagious – which it is not. 

Simple Steps to Support Teen Skin:

• Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser at night to remove dirt, make up and your SPF
• Avoid harsh soaps, bubble baths, physical exfoliants / body scrubs and strongly perfumed products
• Keep showers lukewarm (hot water can irritate)
• Moisturise immediately after bathing (“lock in” moisture) and hydrate skin as needed, morning, afternoon and evening with moisturisers and drinking fluids.
• Help them spot and manage stress triggers

And Always Remember:
Healthy skin doesn’t mean flawless skin.
If you or your teenager need personalised advice, reach out to a GP who understands teen skin needs—or explore evidence-based resources like Troikin’s Skin Science Hub.

Let’s empower our young people to feel confident and supported in their skin. 

Dr. Amina Albeyatti | GP | Skin Health Advocate | Mum of Two