For many people living with eczema, bathing frequency has been a source of anxiety. Some worry that daily washing might trigger uncomfortable flare-ups or worsen their skin condition.
However, groundbreaking new research brings reassuring news: people with eczema can bathe as often—or as infrequently—as they prefer without negatively impacting their symptoms.
What the Study Found
A significant study published on November 10 in the British Journal of Dermatology revealed that eczema symptoms remained consistent regardless of how often participants bathed. Researchers compared two groups—one that showered or bathed daily and another that washed only once or twice per week—and found no meaningful difference in symptom severity between them.
Lead researcher Lucy Bradshaw, who serves as senior medical statistician at the University of Nottingham’s Clinical Trials Unit in the U.K., shared in a news release: “The findings of our study are great news for people living with eczema. It means they can choose a frequency of bathing that suits them.”
Understanding Eczema
Eczema creates several challenges for the skin. The condition causes dryness, itchiness, and bumpy texture while compromising the skin’s natural ability to lock in moisture and serve as a protective barrier against environmental irritants, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Study Design and Participants
The research team enrolled 438 participants—both adults and children with eczema—from across the United Kingdom. Each person was randomly placed into one of two bathing routines: either daily showers or baths, or weekly bathing (one to two times per week). Participants followed their assigned routine for one month while researchers tracked their symptoms.
Amanda Roberts, a member of the research team who personally experiences eczema and leads a support group for families caring for children with the condition, found the findings deeply comforting.
Roberts noted: “There are so many things in everyday life which have the potential to affect eczema. It is good to know frequency of bathing or showering is not one of them. One less thing to worry about.”
What’s Next for Eczema Research
The research team plans to continue addressing practical questions that matter to people living with eczema. Their next investigation will explore the optimal duration for using steroid creams when treating eczema flare-ups.
Bradshaw emphasized the value of involving eczema patients throughout the research process: “It was fantastic to work so closely with people living with eczema to co‑design this study. Together, we’re starting to answer questions about living with eczema that haven’t had enough attention in research until now.”
This collaborative approach ensures that future studies focus on the real-world concerns that affect daily life for people managing this chronic skin condition.