Eczema in Skin of Color
Eczema is a common skin condition that affects people of every race and ethnicity. However, its appearance can vary depending on a person’s skin pigmentation. Symptoms are often more severe among people with skin of color, especially children.
Eczema on black and brown skin, as well as other darker skin tones, often looks different compared to white skin. Some doctors and patients may mistake eczema on black skin and brown skin for other conditions. This can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment.
Obstacles for people of color
What causes eczema remains unclear. It is believed to result from an interplay of genetic, environmental and socioeconomic factors.
For people with skin of color, social and economic factors can influence how and when they receive an eczema diagnosis. It can also impact eczema treatment. Ongoing challenges for people with skin of color include:
- fewer providers who know how eczema appears on darker skin pigments;
- providers that may underestimate eczema severity with darker skin pigments;
- limited access to quality healthcare, including medical therapies.
How does eczema on skin of color look different from white skin?
In addition to a dry, inflamed and itchy rash, eczema symptoms include raised bumps, skin swelling and discolored patches of skin.
On darker skin tones, eczema symptoms may look ashen gray, purplish, or darker than the rest of the skin. On lighter skin tones, AD often appears as a red rash. Over time, eczema can cause lighter or darker patches of skin. It can also develop skin thickening.
Challenges with diagnosis and treatment can impact quality of life. It can not only affect physical health but also mental well-being.
This website highlights the unique challenges that people of color face with eczema, including issues with diagnosis, treatment, management and childhood eczema. The website also offers helpful resources for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.
What is Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)?
Eczema is a chronic, non-contagious skin condition that occurs due to skin inflammation. It causes a dry, inflamed and itchy rash. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common type of eczema that is linked to allergies. Studies show that people with skin of color are at a higher risk of getting eczema. They are also at risk for more severe symptoms.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Eczema diagnosis is often more challenging for people with skin of color. Symptoms on dark skin are sometimes overlooked or misdiagnosed. For an accurate diagnosis, go to a board-certified allergist or dermatologist. They are trained to diagnose and treat eczema. Treatment includes using moisturizers to calm itchy and inflamed skin. If symptoms worsen, topical ointments and creams are available, followed by more advanced medications if needed.
Pediatric Eczema
Eczema in infants and young children often begins in the first months of life. Symptoms can look different on darker skin tones. Diagnosing eczema early and identifying triggers can help you and your doctor find the right treatment and protect your baby’s skin barrier.
Image Library
Visit our image gallery showing how eczema appears on different skin tones. These images help patients and doctors recognize symptoms on many different skin colors.
Videos
Watch expert videos and hear patient stories about living with and managing eczema in skin of color. See how symptoms appear on different skin tones, learn about treatment options, and get practical care tips.
Patient and Caregiver Resources
Find trusted patient & caregiver resources and handouts on eczema in skin of color. These tools explain symptoms, review treatment options, and offer tips on creating a care plan that meets your needs.
Healthcare Professional Resources
Healthcare professionals can find information to diagnose and treat eczema in patients with skin of color. The website offers clinical care guidelines and treatment recommendations. And it addresses social and economic factors that cause disparities in care. Check out key publications focused on eczema in skin of color.
