Benadryl is a brand-name medication that contains the active ingredient diphenhydramine, which is an antihistamine. It works by blocking the effects of histamine, a substance in the blood that causes itching and inflammation. Benadryl comes in many different oral forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquids.
Regarding eczema, doctors do not generally recommend Benadryl for treating eczema in adults or children. Although this medication does help treat itching and rashes resulting from hives, it does not have the same benefits for relieving eczema symptoms. In fact, topical diphenhydramine may worsen a rash and make a person’s skin sensitive to sunlight.
Other possible treatments for eczema include over-the-counter (OTC) moisturizers to prevent loss of water from the skin, OTC or prescription steroid creams, such as hydrocortisone, prescription oral or topical corticosteroids, prescription topical calcineurin inhibitors, such as pimecrolimus (Elidel), prescription systemic medications and biologics, prescription oral or topical antibiotics to treat skin infections, and phototherapy to relieve skin inflammation.
It is important to note that Benadryl may cause side effects for some people, including drowsiness, dry mouth, and dizziness. Common side effects of the active ingredient in Benadryl, alongside drowsiness, include headache, stomach upset, and blurred vision. Additionally, Benadryl products should not be used to treat eczema, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Finally, it is worth noting that people with eczema need to be especially mindful of what they’re putting on their skin to keep it healthy and safe, while also knowing which things to avoid so as not to trigger inflammation and flare-ups. For example, skincare ingredients to avoid if you have eczema include propylene glycol, ethanol (alcohol), and fragrances.
