The biggest problem for people affected by eczema? Other people

It’s a cruel world we live in and even more so if you have eczema. That’s according to a new study by QV Skincare, which examined how those living with it are affected by the way other people treat them.

• 87% feel insecure about their appearance.
• 72% find the way other people react to their skin upsetting.
• Cruel looks, stares, unkind comments, taunting and bullying can be part of daily life.  

In the UK, one in five children and one in 12 adults have eczema and living with it can be a challenge, both physically and emotionally. In milder cases, the skin is dry, scaly, red and itchy. In more severe cases, there may be weeping, crusting and bleeding.

QV Skincare interviewed nearly 1,000 people about their personal experience of the condition and uncovered a concerning lack of understanding and sensitivity from the British public.

The research reveals just how much eczema can affect self-esteem. Embarrassed by the appearance of their skin, 76% said that they purposefully wear clothes to cover up their eczema.

For 82% the condition has a negative affect on quality of life, with respondents listing mood, confidence, personal relationships and social life as the main areas affected. Many also have difficulties in school and work.

Dr Kerryn Greive PhD, Scientific Affairs Manager for QV Skincare comments: “Eczema is a major problem in the UK for adults and children – some will grow out of it, some will be able to keep it under control with a strict skin care regime, but for others it is just something they have to learn to live with.

“The survey highlights a lack of understanding and awareness of the condition - eczema is not contagious and you cannot catch it from someone else. Most people won’t be aware that their actions are rude or hurtful, but they are nevertheless upsetting for those on the receiving end.

“Emotional stress is known to make eczema worse and sadly it is not uncommon for people to experience depression and anxiety. Over 45% of respondents told us they had no one to talk to about the condition – I would hope that the more openly we talk, the more understanding we will see. I would also urge anyone suffering in silence to get in touch with a support service, such as the helpline offered by the National Eczema Society.”