Ear eczema can be an extremely itchy and irritating situation. Left untreated, eczema in ears or around them can turn painful due to extremely sensitive skin skin, soreness or infection.
Ear eczema can affect various parts of the ear, yet it is most commonly seen on the external part of the ear. This area, also known as the pinna, can experience itching, scaling, redness and/or flaking. The top, back and ear folds are also common areas for ear eczema.
Eczema in ears is also quite common and can appear in the ear opening (meatus), ear canal or ear drum. Inflammation of the ear canal is known as otitis externa. If you are suffering from this condition, it’s important to seek medical attention to avoid infection.
Types of Ear Eczema
Atopic Eczema —appears on ears and skin behind the ears. This type of eczema can cause itching, dryness and redness, as well as painful cracks between the ear lobe and face.
Seborrhoeic Dermatitis—most commonly seen on the scalp, but can move down to the ear folds, top of ears, or external ear canal. This type of eczema in ears and around results in scaling and redness, yet more severe cases can develop crusty cracks.
Asteatotic Dermatitis—usually affects older people and can be caused by climate changes or over-washing.
Contact Dermatitis—caused by irritants such as hair products or allergens like with systemic nickel allergy syndrome. Can usually be prevented by eliminating specific irritant or allergens.
Treatment of Ear Eczema
There are various natural treatments that can be used to treat the dryness, itching or redness seen in eczema in ears and the external surrounding area.
Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream—moisturizes even the driest skin with beeswax, olive oil, manuka oil and manuka honey. Extra nourishing and anti-bacterial. Safe for every square inch of your body and for babies to adults. Works well for eczema in ears and out.
Emily Skin Soothers for Itchy Eczema—perfect for soothing itchy, dry ear eczema. A combination of soothing Chinese herbs and olive oil which is sensitive enough for ear skin.
Emily Skin Soothers Liquid Soap Soother—try this alternative soap that doubles up as a shampoo. Perfect for those suffering from seborrhoeic dermatitis as well. .
If you’re suffering from eczema in ears or around them, we suggest talking to your doctor as soon as possible to prevent infection.
To keep the area clean and free from infection, use a damp towel to gently wash around the ear, but never insert it into the ear canal. This can damage skin or ear tissue.
Resources
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323150.p...
https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/ear,-nose,...
https://www.evidence.nhs.uk/search?ps=50&q=ear+ecz...
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Bio: Laura is a contributor and content developer for The Eczema Company. She is in no way a medical professional. Her comments, suggestions, and reflections are not intended to replace any medical advice. Always seek the help of a medical professional before undertaking any diet or lifestyle changes.
