
It is frustrating enough dealing with acne or eczema on their own, but both at the same time is even more frustrating and feels downright unfair. Clients ask me why do I struggle with dry, red and irritated skin along with battling breakouts? More importantly, how do I fix it without making one problem worse. Have you been asking yourself the same? First let's run though why this might be happening and then what products you need.
Why Do I Have Eczema and Acne at the Same Time?
The truth is, having dry, sensitive skin does not make you immune to spots. In fact, the combination is surprisingly common for a few reasons:
1. Your Skin Barrier is Compromised
Eczema weakens your skin’s protective barrier making it more prone to irritation and moisture loss. At the same time, when your skin feels dry, it often overcompensates by producing extra oil leading to clogged pores and acne breakouts. It is a vicious cycle!
2. Inflammation is a Major Factor
Both eczema and acne are inflammatory skin conditions and if your body is already prone to inflammation, it can manifest as redness, dryness, and breakouts all at once.
3. Using the Wrong Products
Acne treatments often strip the skin of moisture whereas heavy creams for eczema can clog pores. Finding the balance is key.
4. Stress and Hormones
Stress is a known trigger for both eczema flare-ups and acne. Hormonal imbalances can also affect how your skin behaves, making it feel impossible to calm down.
How to Calm Dryness and Redness Without Making Spots Worse
1. Choose a Gentle, Hydrating Cleanser
Skip harsh, foaming cleansers that strip your skin and instead, opt for a fragrance free, hydrating cleanser that soothes and cleans without over drying. Also look for calming ingredients like glycerin or oat extract.
2. Moisturize with Lightweight, Non-Comedogenic Products
Hydration is crucial to repairing your skin barrier, but avoid rich, heavy creams that could trigger breakouts. Instead, use a lightweight moisturizer designed for sensitive skin. Products with ceramides, hyaluronic acid or niacinamide are excellent for restoring moisture while calming inflammation.
3. Add a Soothing Serum
Red, irritated skin benefits from calming ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or centella asiatica (also known as cica). These help reduce redness without clogging your pores.
4. Spot Treat Sparingly
If you use acne treatments, apply them only where needed. Ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide can be drying, so balance them with hydrating products.
5. Avoid Scrubbing and Over-Exfoliating
Gentle exfoliation can help clear breakouts, but be careful not to irritate sensitive, eczema-prone skin. Use chemical exfoliants like lactic acid at low concentrations and only once or twice a week.
6. Protect Your Skin with SPF
Sunscreen is non-negotiable, even if your skin feels sensitive. Look for mineral-based formulas with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are less likely to cause irritation.
Be Kind to Your Skin
Managing eczema and acne together takes patience and the right products. In my facials, I use soothing, hydrating treatments with high-quality, professional skincare designed to calm irritation while balancing oil production. If you need help finding a routine that works for you, I’m always happy to offer personalized advice.
Book a calming facial today to restore your skin’s balance and bring back your glow!
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