Many people wonder if
eczema, a chronic condition that causes scaly patches of inflamed, itchy, dry skin, is contagious. Fortunately for those who have an active rash, they can't "give" eczema to someone else, even if they’re in close contact.
“Eczema is in no way contagious,” says Susan Massick, MD, a professor of dermatology at the Ohio State University in Columbus and a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. “You will not pass it along to someone if they touch your skin, nor will you develop eczema by being in contact with someone who has eczema.”
But eczema can be passed between family members in another way.
Atopic dermatitis, the most common form of eczema, has a genetic component. That means it can run in families, and you’re more likely to have eczema if a family member has it, too.
Here’s what to know about the genetic connection with eczema, as well as other risk factors for developing this common skin condition.
While eczema can’t spread from skin-to-skin contact, children can inherit this condition from their parents. Certain gene mutations, specifically on the filaggrin (FLG) gene, make it more likely that you’ll develop eczema. But an FLG gene mutation doesn’t always mean you will develop eczema.
Environmental factors, such as
allergens, may play a role in whether or not a person with an FLG mutation will develop this skin condition. Some people with the gene mutation won’t develop eczema if they’re not exposed to potential triggers.
“When there are mutations in this gene, the skin is less able to retain water and becomes more susceptible to allergens, irritants, and pollutants,” says Peter Lio, MD, a clinical assistant professor of dermatology and pediatrics at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine and a National Eczema Association board member. “However, this does not explain the majority of eczema cases out there.”
That means that despite eczema’s genetic component, a person can develop eczema even if they don’t have a family history of the disease.
Beyond the genetic connection, researchers continue to explore the environmental, immune, and stress factors that can trigger a bout of eczema or make an active case worse. Dr. Lio says that eczema is not just a skin condition. It can involve several different body systems, such as the
gut microbiome and respiratory issues. For example, people who have eczema will often also develop allergies and asthma.
“Eczema is multifactorial, where your genetics, your own immune system, and both external and internal triggers can initiate a flare,” says Dr. Massick.
Common eczema triggers include:
- Contact with allergens, such as perfumes, soaps, cosmetics, wool, and certain metals
- Temperature extremes
- Stress, both physical and mental
- Smoke or air pollutants
A dermatologist can help you manage and ease your eczema symptoms by recommending a personalized skin-care routine, says Massick.
Rachel Green
Rachel Davis
Derek Schulz
Sophia Martinez
Dr. Amara Okafor