Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, affects millions of people worldwide and is on the rise. More than 31 million Americans live with some form of eczema, including about 10 percent of children and 7 percent of adults. Globally, over 200 million people are estimated to be affected. This chronic inflammatory skin condition causes dryness, redness, itching, and discomfort and can have a major impact on mental health, sleep, and quality of life.
While there is no cure, experts agree that eczema can often be managed through consistent skincare, lifestyle changes, and avoiding common irritants.
Naples Soap Company Founder and CEO, Deanna Wallin, knows this firsthand. A former nurse, Wallin knew all too well from personal experience how ingredients in everyday skincare products contributed to her own eczema and psoriasis. Frustrated by the harsh chemicals found in beauty products, she began experimenting with products made with natural ingredients, including coconut oil, shea butter, and olive oil. The results were life-changing.
“After years of battling eczema myself, I learned that what you put on your skin is just as important as what you put in your body,” says Wallin. “Once I switched to clean, simple ingredients, my skin started to heal. That experience inspired me to create products that could help others find the same relief.”
Her company, Naples Soap Company, focuses on results-driven, non-toxic skincare that follows her NO BADDITIVES™ standard:
- Paraben free
- Phthalate free
- Silicone free
The Eczema Epidemic
Recent studies show that eczema is not only widespread but also increasing in prevalence.
- About 1 in 10 children and 1 in 14 adults in the U.S. have eczema.
- Globally, the condition affects roughly 4 percent of children and 2 percent of adults.
- Roughly 40 percent of adults with eczema experience moderate to severe symptoms.
- Up to 67 percent of children with eczema have trouble sleeping due to itching and discomfort.
These numbers highlight how eczema is more than a cosmetic concern; it is a chronic condition influenced by genetics, environment, and lifestyle.
Lifestyle Choices That Help Manage Eczema
While medical treatment may be necessary for some, small changes in daily routines can make a big difference in controlling symptoms and reducing flare-ups.
1. Simplify your skincare routine. Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and thick moisturizers daily. Follow the “soak and seal” method: bathe in lukewarm water, pat dry, and apply moisturizer immediately. Avoid hot showers and harsh soaps.
2. Choose clean, natural products. Select skincare made with plant-based ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and olive oil. Avoid fragrances and dyes that can irritate sensitive skin.
3. Manage stress and sleep. Stress is a known eczema trigger. Incorporating relaxation practices like yoga, meditation, or outdoor walks can help reduce flare-ups. Getting consistent, restorative sleep also supports healthy skin repair.
4. Maintain a balanced diet. An anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids can support overall skin health. Staying hydrated is equally important.
5. Dress for comfort. Wear breathable fabrics such as cotton and avoid wool or tight-fitting clothing that can cause irritation.
“Eczema isn’t just a skin condition; it’s a lifestyle condition,” says Wallin. “By making small, consistent changes to how you care for your body, you can see meaningful results.”
Clean skincare, mindful living, and awareness of triggers can empower people to take control of their eczema and improve both their skin and their confidence.
