There is no evidence to suggest that people with eczema are more likely to develop COVID-19 or to experience a more severe form of the condition if they do develop it.
Are people with compromised immune systems more susceptible to coronavirus? Is this risk greater for people with eczema as well?
We are still learning about COVID-19, however it seems that in those with immunocompromised status (and that includes older people in general where the immune system is not as robust as it may be in younger patients) the risks are greater for COVID-19.
However, even in severe eczema, it is likely the immune system is disordered but not actually compromised. So just having eczema alone is probably not a significant risk factor for getting sick with or having a more severe case of COVID-19.
If I have open cracks or lesions in my skin due to eczema, am I more likely to pick up COVID-19?
COVID-19 is a new strain of a common family of viruses (coronaviruses) and we are still learning how it works so we can’t say for sure at this point. However, because this (coronavirus) respiratory infection is most likely spread through contact with an infected person through respiratory droplets generated when a person coughs or sneezes, or through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose, it seems to be unlikely that damaged skin increases the risk.
Are there certain types of soaps people with eczema should avoid?
Make sure you’re not allergic to any of the ingredients. Look for soap made for sensitive skin with mild, gentle cleansers and has the same pH as your skin, which 5.5. Avoid use soaps that contain fragrance or dye because they can be allergens.
Many of the antiseptic washes and antibacterial washes are quite harsh on the skin. In general, the antiseptic ingredients are not needed for proper hand hygiene if you use proper technique, (i.e., wash with soap for 20 seconds, use warm water, etc.). But, it is important to apply moisturizer after each wash to reduce the drying effects.
If a cleanser or soap isn’t available, can I use hand sanitizer? Will it exacerbate my eczema?
If a cleanser or soap is unavailable, hand sanitizers (with at least 60% alcohol) are the next best thing for preventing the spread of infection, though they may sting skin with eczema. Since they can be drying, it’s important to moisturize afterwards to maintain hydration. However, after applying hand sanitizer, make sure your hands are completely dry before applying the moisturizer.
Are there hand sanitizers formulated for eczema?
While there are not hand sanitizers formulated specifically for people with eczema, there are some with emollients /moisturizers in them that are fairly well tolerated.
What are the steps people with eczema should take to properly moisturize after washing their hands?
After washing your hands, you should pat dry with a disposable paper towel or tissue. It is best not to rub dry as this is traumatic to the skin aside from the harm of frequent water exposure. Once mostly dry, (i.e., your skin is still a little damp) apply a generous amount of moisturizer to coat the entire surface of your hands and fingers.
What should people with eczema do while cleaning to protect their skin and prevent the spread of respiratory illness?
People should always wear powder-free gloves when using antiseptic wipes and cleaning products. Avoid wearing gloves for long periods of time (longer than 20 minutes) as this can cause the hands to sweat, causing more irritation and itching.
Which are the best masks to wear?
Cotton masks are recommended to provide protection against COVID-19. Whichever, type of mask you choose, it is essential that it complies with the protection standards.
Masks that are attached at the back of the head are handy alternatives for those who develop irritation behind the ears due to elastic ties.
What effects can constant mask-wearing have on the skin?
- There has been an uptick in cases of perioral dermatitis relating to mask-wearing. Moisture and vapor, as well as any secretions such as saliva or mucus, are trapped inside the mask. That can act as an irritant dermatitis to the skin and upset the natural balance of the skin around the mouth. Usually it is going to be rashes, redness, irritation, and scaling around the nose and mouth. Sometimes tiny pimples or pustules appear in clusters.
- There are a few reported cases of allergic contact dermatitis. This is where someone is allergic to something in the cloth or material the mask is made out of.
- A lot of fabric is treated with formaldehyde to keep bugs and insects out while shipping and to maintain the integrity of the fabric in the manufacturing process. But if left in contact with our skin, those things can act as allergens and irritants. We recommend that you wash the mask before wearing it.
What care routine should you adopt to limit facial skin reactions?
In order to protect your facial skin and limit any reactions, we recommend that you take special care of your skin while wearing your mask.
Wash your face with a gentle facial cleanser. Then, gently dab your face dry, and avoid rubbing. After that, apply an emollient or hydrating cream - 30 minutes or 1 hour before putting on your mask - for maximum absorption. Finally, masks must be changed every 4 hours, which gives your skin the opportunity to breathe for a few minutes. It is important to follow protective measures when changing your mask, to wash your hand before and after, and to only touch the mask's elastic or straps.
Are people on dupilumab (DUPIXENT®) for eczema at risk for the COVID-19?
Based on the data from multiple clinical trials, dupilumab is generally not an immunosuppressant and was not associated with higher rates of infection overall. There is not enough evidence on whether dupilumab would have any impact on the risk of transmission of COVID-19 or related illnesses. For patients who are currently on dupilumab, doctor does not recommend discontinuation or changing doses. If a patient is confirmed to have COVID-19, doctor would consider holding dupilumab until the COVID-19 is resolved.
If I am taking an immunosuppressive medication for my eczema, am I more likely to pick up COVID-19?
While having eczema alone is probably not a significant risk factor for COVID-19, we do know that certain medications can cause immunosuppression, including some used for severe eczema. Therefore, patients using these medications can be at greater risk of more severe infection or complications from COVID-19 if they are infected.
