Bleach baths are a home remedy that may help lessen symptoms of chronic eczema (atopic dermatitis) . They are unique because they kill bacteria, reduce inflammation, and moisturize the skin all in the same treatment. A study showed that children with eczema who took regular bleach baths were less likely to develop a secondary bacterial infection, such as a staph infection, as a side effect of eczema. The baths also decreased the severity of symptoms for children in the same study.
If properly diluted and used as directed, a bleach bath is safe for children and adults. A standard bathtub, which contains 40 gallons of water, will only need a 1/2 cup of bleach to be an effective bleach bath. However, it is important to talk to a doctor before trying an eczema bleach bath, especially if the skin is cracked or very dry, as any bath, including a bleach bath, may be painful.
Here are some positive and negative aspects of bleach baths for eczema:
Positive:
- Kills bacteria on the skin, reducing itching, redness, and scaling.
- Reduces inflammation and moisturizes the skin.
- Decreases the severity of symptoms for children with eczema.
- A cheap, low-cost intervention that is easy to do.
Negative:
- May cause dry skin if too much bleach is used or if bleach baths are taken too often.
- Potential to accidentally get bleach in the eyes and mouth.
- Evidence to support bleach baths for the treatment of chronic eczema is mixed.
The active ingredient in household bleach, sodium hypochlorite, is effective against a wide range of bacteria (both positive and negative), spores, fungi, and viruses, and there is no microbial resistance. However, bleach should not be used with any other products, as it may react with them.
Overall, bleach baths appear to be one potentially useful tool among many possible treatments for reducing eczema symptoms. It is important to talk to a board-certified dermatologist to create a treatment plan that is tailored to individual needs.
