Eczema may be more difficult to diagnose and treat for Hispanics, though a well-trained dermatologist or doctor can best evaluate symptoms and possible treatment options.
Eczema can make your skin itchy and dry. It’s a common skin condition, affecting around
But for the Hispanic community, eczema may be more severe or persistent.
Little research specifically examines eczema, or atopic dermatitis, in the Hispanic population.
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The National Eczema Association cites studies that include research showing Hispanic children and Black children
Many of the same
Eczema can also affect Hispanic people in other ways compared with white people, including:
- One
study with 1,437 mother-child pairs found that Hispanic people and Black people with early childhood eczema were more likely to experience eczema that persists beyond early childhood. - A study with 7,522 children found that Hispanic children and Black children were overall three times more likely to get medical care for eczema. They had a higher likelihood of seeking primary or emergency care for eczema as well.
- Another
study with 8,015 children found that Hispanic children and Black children were more likely to have unmanaged eczema and increased school absences due to their eczema.
Eczema can appear differently on darker skin tones than on lighter skin tones.
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About eczema
Eczema is a group of seven skin conditions in which areas of skin become itchy, dry, and inflamed. Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema.
People with eczema may develop scaly patches of skin, a blister-like rash, oozing, or swelling. Scratching or rubbing the affected area may make it worse.
Eczema most often develops in young children, typically by the time kids are 5 years old. Eczema
Even though data is limited on eczema’s prevalence in the Hispanic community, some
The
Although eczema can affect any part of the body, some areas are more common, such as the:
- hands or feet
- insides of the elbows
- backs of the knees
- wrists or ankles
- eyelids
- creases between the buttocks and legs
- cheeks or scalp (in infants)
Skin inflammation can also
- ashen gray
- purple
- dark brown
- lighter, dry areas
It’s also possible for people with eczema to experience flare-ups, which are periods of time during which eczema symptoms become more severe. In some people, flare-ups can occur as often as 2 or 3 times per month.
Two big
Eczema often develops in people who have a personal history of other atopic conditions.
Your risk may also
Environmental exposures may also
Other environmental exposures that may trigger eczema include:
- tobacco smoke
- pollution
- fragrance in many skin care products and laundry detergents
- wool clothing
Although further studies are needed, some research has found that the factors influencing eczema risk may vary based on race or ethnicity. This older
- eczema was less common in Hispanic children than in white children
- the impact of parental history of atopic conditions or eczema was greaterin Hispanic children than in white children, who had a higher risk independent of parental history
- certain environmental exposures affected these two groups differently, suggesting differences in the mechanism behind eczema development. Specifically, exposure to mold or mildew increased the risk of eczema in:
- white children with a parental history of atopic conditions
- Hispanic children without a parental history of atopic conditions
People who have darker skin tones, including Hispanics, may experience delays in diagnosis and treatment for eczema. This is because not all healthcare professionals are well-trained in recognizing eczema in certain populations.
A dermatologist typically diagnoses eczema. This type of doctor specializes in diagnosing and treating health conditions that affect the skin.
Your dermatologist will start by examining your skin and getting your medical history. During this time, they’ll ask about things like:
- when your symptoms started and how often they occur
- where on your body symptoms occur (particularly if you have clear skin during your visit)
- how the rash feels, such as whether it itches or hurts
- whether certain things make your symptoms better or worse
- if you have a family history of conditions like eczema, allergies, or asthma
- any other underlying health conditions you may have
- what types of medications or supplements you take
Many times, your dermatologist can diagnose eczema using your medical history and performing a skin exam. In some cases, they will want to collect a skin biopsy as a part of the diagnostic process. That involves:
- Your dermatologist will numb an area of the skin using localized anesthesia to reduce discomfort and pain.
- They’ll then use a small, sharp tool to remove a small sample of skin, which will then be examined under a microscope.
- The skin biopsy is often sent to a dermatopathologist, a person who specializes in skin pathology.
No, treatment is not necessarily different for the Hispanic community or those with darker skin.
There’s no current cure for eczema, but it can be managed. Several eczema treatment options can help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment recommendations are similar across racial and ethnic groups.
This may include lifestyle changes to bathing or hygiene habits, using moisturizer daily, and avoiding scratching or picking at your skin. A doctor may also prescribe medications or other treatments.
While eczema is less common in Hispanic people, it can also be more severe or persistent in this group.
Additionally, some research has found that Hispanic children are more likely to seek care or miss school due to eczema.
Eczema treatment is the same across racial and ethnic groups. It generally involves lifestyle changes and medications.
If you think you have eczema, be sure to talk with a dermatologist. Treatment can improve symptoms and quality of life.