Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis , is a common skin condition that affects all skin tones. However, in black, mixed-race, or dark skin, symptoms may be specific.
What is eczema?
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that affects both children and adults. It can affect all skin types, including black skin. This inflammatory condition manifests itself through the appearance of red patches , intense dryness , itching , and sometimes areas of discoloration (depigmentation and/or hyperpigmentation spots).
There are different types of eczema, but atopic eczema is the most common. This condition results from genetic and immunological abnormalities that alter the skin barrier, making the skin more vulnerable to environmental allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, and pollen.
How does eczema manifest on black skin?
Symptoms of eczema on black skin may differ slightly from those seen on other skin types.
Dryness and redness, common symptoms of eczema, may be less noticeable on darker skin. This can delay diagnosis and access to appropriate treatment. Eczema patches are less visible on pigmented skin. They appear dark brown , purple, or ash gray.
In black skin, like all skin types, eczema can appear anywhere on the body. It is most commonly seen on the front of the arms and legs , but it can also appear on the face , neck, and hands.
Eczema on black skin can be recognized by certain characteristic symptoms:
- Dry or flaky skin
- Intense itching
- Thickening of the skin ( lichenification )
- Lesions or oozing due to scratching
- Follicular accentuation (bumps around hair follicles)
Inflammation and itching can lead to hyperpigmentation (darker skin) or hypopigmentation ( lighter skin), which persists even after eczema is treated .
How to treat eczema on black skin?
Eczema on black skin can be more difficult to recognize and diagnose than on white or light skin.
Faced with the challenges posed by eczema on black skin, there are solutions to improve patient care and quality of life. First, it is essential to consult an experienced dermatologist , who can make an accurate diagnosis tailored to skin color and offer personalized and effective treatment. During the examination, the healthcare professional will look for areas where symptoms are active.
It is also important to follow the doctor's recommendations, particularly regarding the regular application of prescribed products , infection prevention and stress management.
Taking care of your skin every day
It is essential to take care of your skin on a daily basis, by adopting a skincare routine adapted to black or dark skin. This involves using gentle, perfume- and alcohol-free products that respect the skin's pH and hydrolipidic film. You should also moisturize your skin morning and evening, with rich and nourishing creams. You should avoid triggers or aggravators of eczema, such as allergens, irritants, temperature variations, perspiration or scratching.
Kanu Skincare, a skincare brand for melanin-rich skin, offers a range of products formulated with plant-based ingredients , such as shea butter, jojoba seed oil and carrot seed oil. These products have moisturizing , soothing , healing and anti-inflammatory properties, which help restore the skin barrier, reduce itching and prevent pigmentation disorders.
