
Tackling Eczema Hyperpigmentation.
Tackling Eczema Hyperpigmentation.
Tackling Eczema Hyperpigmentation.
Understand the mechanism of eczema-induced hyperpigmentation and learn strategies to manage it effectively.
Understand the mechanism of eczema-induced hyperpigmentation and learn strategies to manage it effectively.
Understand the mechanism of eczema-induced hyperpigmentation and learn strategies to manage it effectively.
2023-03-23T00:00:00.000Z
2023-03-23T00:00:00.000Z
2023-03-23T00:00:00.000Z
What is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition where some patches of skin become darker than the surrounding skin. This happens when there's an excess production of melanin, the brown pigment that produces normal skin color.
Eczema and Hyperpigmentation
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that makes your skin red, itchy, and inflamed. One of the less-discussed effects of eczema is hyperpigmentation, which often comes from inflammation and constant scratching that is all too familiar for those with eczema.
Treating Hyperpigmentation in Eczema
Control Your Eczema
Treating hyperpigmentation caused by eczema starts with managing your eczema symptoms. This can be done with the help of medicines applied to the skin (topical steroids), medicines taken by mouth (oral medications), and changes in daily routines and habits. By managing your eczema, you reduce inflammation and itching, both of which can lead to hyperpigmentation.
Hydrate Your Skin
Moisturising your skin is vital in controlling eczema and the associated pigmentation. A good moisturiser helps lock in hydration, giving your skin protection from dryness and irritants. Choose a moisturiser that is free of fragrances and doesn't clog pores (non-comedogenic).
Protect Your Skin From The Sun
The sun's rays can worsen eczema-related hyperpigmentation. Protect your skin by applying a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays (broad-spectrum) with an SPF of 30 or higher. Don't forget to reapply your sunscreen every two hours or immediately after sweating or swimming.
Products to Try for Eczema Pigmentation
When selecting products for eczema-prone skin, it's important to choose ones that are gentle, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic. Here are some suggestions:
Cetaphil Restoraderm Eczema Calming Body Moisturiser - This moisturiser contains ceramides and filaggrin technology, which can help repair the skin barrier and improve hydration. It's also free of fragrance, parabens, and steroids.
Aveeno Eczema Therapy Itch Relief Balm - This balm contains colloidal oatmeal, which can soothe and protect the skin. It's also free of fragrance and steroids.
Vanicream Moisturising Skin Cream - This moisturiser is free of fragrance, dyes, parabens, and formaldehyde. It's also suitable for sensitive skin and can help improve hydration.
Neosporin Eczema Essentials Hydrocortisone Anti-itch Cream - This cream contains 1% hydrocortisone, a mild topical steroid that can help reduce inflammation and itching. It's also free of fragrance and can be used on children over the age of 2.
Consider Professional Treatments
For stubborn or severe cases of eczema hyperpigmentation, professional treatments might be worth exploring. These include chemical peels, laser therapy, and microdermabrasion.
Chemical Peels: This procedure involves applying a chemical solution to the skin to remove the top layers. The skin that grows back is smoother and less pigmented.
Laser Therapy: Here, light energy is used to remove or reshape skin layers. It can be used to lighten areas of hyperpigmentation caused by eczema.
Microdermabrasion: This is a less invasive procedure that gently sands the skin to remove the thicker, uneven outer layer. It can help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation.
What is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition where some patches of skin become darker than the surrounding skin. This happens when there's an excess production of melanin, the brown pigment that produces normal skin color.
Eczema and Hyperpigmentation
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that makes your skin red, itchy, and inflamed. One of the less-discussed effects of eczema is hyperpigmentation, which often comes from inflammation and constant scratching that is all too familiar for those with eczema.
Treating Hyperpigmentation in Eczema
Control Your Eczema
Treating hyperpigmentation caused by eczema starts with managing your eczema symptoms. This can be done with the help of medicines applied to the skin (topical steroids), medicines taken by mouth (oral medications), and changes in daily routines and habits. By managing your eczema, you reduce inflammation and itching, both of which can lead to hyperpigmentation.
Hydrate Your Skin
Moisturising your skin is vital in controlling eczema and the associated pigmentation. A good moisturiser helps lock in hydration, giving your skin protection from dryness and irritants. Choose a moisturiser that is free of fragrances and doesn't clog pores (non-comedogenic).
Protect Your Skin From The Sun
The sun's rays can worsen eczema-related hyperpigmentation. Protect your skin by applying a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays (broad-spectrum) with an SPF of 30 or higher. Don't forget to reapply your sunscreen every two hours or immediately after sweating or swimming.
Products to Try for Eczema Pigmentation
When selecting products for eczema-prone skin, it's important to choose ones that are gentle, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic. Here are some suggestions:
Cetaphil Restoraderm Eczema Calming Body Moisturiser - This moisturiser contains ceramides and filaggrin technology, which can help repair the skin barrier and improve hydration. It's also free of fragrance, parabens, and steroids.
Aveeno Eczema Therapy Itch Relief Balm - This balm contains colloidal oatmeal, which can soothe and protect the skin. It's also free of fragrance and steroids.
Vanicream Moisturising Skin Cream - This moisturiser is free of fragrance, dyes, parabens, and formaldehyde. It's also suitable for sensitive skin and can help improve hydration.
Neosporin Eczema Essentials Hydrocortisone Anti-itch Cream - This cream contains 1% hydrocortisone, a mild topical steroid that can help reduce inflammation and itching. It's also free of fragrance and can be used on children over the age of 2.
Consider Professional Treatments
For stubborn or severe cases of eczema hyperpigmentation, professional treatments might be worth exploring. These include chemical peels, laser therapy, and microdermabrasion.
Chemical Peels: This procedure involves applying a chemical solution to the skin to remove the top layers. The skin that grows back is smoother and less pigmented.
Laser Therapy: Here, light energy is used to remove or reshape skin layers. It can be used to lighten areas of hyperpigmentation caused by eczema.
Microdermabrasion: This is a less invasive procedure that gently sands the skin to remove the thicker, uneven outer layer. It can help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation.
What is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition where some patches of skin become darker than the surrounding skin. This happens when there's an excess production of melanin, the brown pigment that produces normal skin color.
Eczema and Hyperpigmentation
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that makes your skin red, itchy, and inflamed. One of the less-discussed effects of eczema is hyperpigmentation, which often comes from inflammation and constant scratching that is all too familiar for those with eczema.
Treating Hyperpigmentation in Eczema
Control Your Eczema
Treating hyperpigmentation caused by eczema starts with managing your eczema symptoms. This can be done with the help of medicines applied to the skin (topical steroids), medicines taken by mouth (oral medications), and changes in daily routines and habits. By managing your eczema, you reduce inflammation and itching, both of which can lead to hyperpigmentation.
Hydrate Your Skin
Moisturising your skin is vital in controlling eczema and the associated pigmentation. A good moisturiser helps lock in hydration, giving your skin protection from dryness and irritants. Choose a moisturiser that is free of fragrances and doesn't clog pores (non-comedogenic).
Protect Your Skin From The Sun
The sun's rays can worsen eczema-related hyperpigmentation. Protect your skin by applying a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays (broad-spectrum) with an SPF of 30 or higher. Don't forget to reapply your sunscreen every two hours or immediately after sweating or swimming.
Products to Try for Eczema Pigmentation
When selecting products for eczema-prone skin, it's important to choose ones that are gentle, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic. Here are some suggestions:
Cetaphil Restoraderm Eczema Calming Body Moisturiser - This moisturiser contains ceramides and filaggrin technology, which can help repair the skin barrier and improve hydration. It's also free of fragrance, parabens, and steroids.
Aveeno Eczema Therapy Itch Relief Balm - This balm contains colloidal oatmeal, which can soothe and protect the skin. It's also free of fragrance and steroids.
Vanicream Moisturising Skin Cream - This moisturiser is free of fragrance, dyes, parabens, and formaldehyde. It's also suitable for sensitive skin and can help improve hydration.
Neosporin Eczema Essentials Hydrocortisone Anti-itch Cream - This cream contains 1% hydrocortisone, a mild topical steroid that can help reduce inflammation and itching. It's also free of fragrance and can be used on children over the age of 2.
Consider Professional Treatments
For stubborn or severe cases of eczema hyperpigmentation, professional treatments might be worth exploring. These include chemical peels, laser therapy, and microdermabrasion.
Chemical Peels: This procedure involves applying a chemical solution to the skin to remove the top layers. The skin that grows back is smoother and less pigmented.
Laser Therapy: Here, light energy is used to remove or reshape skin layers. It can be used to lighten areas of hyperpigmentation caused by eczema.
Microdermabrasion: This is a less invasive procedure that gently sands the skin to remove the thicker, uneven outer layer. It can help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation.
Additional Tips for Managing Eczema Pigmentation
Here are some other tips that can help you manage eczema hyperpigmentation:
Try not to scratch. It can irritate your skin and make hyperpigmentation worse.
Eat healthily. A balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can contribute to overall skin health.
Make sure you're getting enough sleep. Being well-rested helps your skin to repair and regenerate itself.
Handle stress in a healthy way. Stress can cause eczema flare-ups, leading to more pigmentation. Engage in activities like exercise, yoga, or meditation to handle stress.
Conclusion - Eczema and Hyperpigmentation
Dealing with eczema can be challenging, and hyperpigmentation adds an extra layer of complexity to managing this skin condition. However, understanding how eczema contributes to hyperpigmentation and knowing the effective ways to treat it can make a big difference. Remember, while over-the-counter remedies and lifestyle modifications can help, professional treatments often provide the best results for persistent or severe cases. Always consult a dermatologist or a skin care professional to get the best advice tailored to your specific needs.
Additional Tips for Managing Eczema Pigmentation
Here are some other tips that can help you manage eczema hyperpigmentation:
Try not to scratch. It can irritate your skin and make hyperpigmentation worse.
Eat healthily. A balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can contribute to overall skin health.
Make sure you're getting enough sleep. Being well-rested helps your skin to repair and regenerate itself.
Handle stress in a healthy way. Stress can cause eczema flare-ups, leading to more pigmentation. Engage in activities like exercise, yoga, or meditation to handle stress.
Conclusion - Eczema and Hyperpigmentation
Dealing with eczema can be challenging, and hyperpigmentation adds an extra layer of complexity to managing this skin condition. However, understanding how eczema contributes to hyperpigmentation and knowing the effective ways to treat it can make a big difference. Remember, while over-the-counter remedies and lifestyle modifications can help, professional treatments often provide the best results for persistent or severe cases. Always consult a dermatologist or a skin care professional to get the best advice tailored to your specific needs.
Additional Tips for Managing Eczema Pigmentation
Here are some other tips that can help you manage eczema hyperpigmentation:
Try not to scratch. It can irritate your skin and make hyperpigmentation worse.
Eat healthily. A balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can contribute to overall skin health.
Make sure you're getting enough sleep. Being well-rested helps your skin to repair and regenerate itself.
Handle stress in a healthy way. Stress can cause eczema flare-ups, leading to more pigmentation. Engage in activities like exercise, yoga, or meditation to handle stress.
Conclusion - Eczema and Hyperpigmentation
Dealing with eczema can be challenging, and hyperpigmentation adds an extra layer of complexity to managing this skin condition. However, understanding how eczema contributes to hyperpigmentation and knowing the effective ways to treat it can make a big difference. Remember, while over-the-counter remedies and lifestyle modifications can help, professional treatments often provide the best results for persistent or severe cases. Always consult a dermatologist or a skin care professional to get the best advice tailored to your specific needs.
Dr Haroon Ahmad
Dr Haroon Ahmad
Dr Haroon Ahmad



our journal
our journal
our journal
More insights for you.
More insights for you.
More insights for you.
Explore more reflections, guidance, and practical tools to support your growth and well-being.
Explore more reflections, guidance, and practical tools to support your growth and well-being.
Explore more reflections, guidance, and practical tools to support your growth and well-being.
Your questions.
Answered.
Not sure what to expect? These answers might help you feel more confident as you begin.
Didn’t find your answer? Send us a message at
hello@proton-health.com — we’ll respond with care and clarity.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Symphony is built for chronic skin conditions: acne, eczema, psoriasis, and topical steroid withdrawal (TSW). These are the conditions where understanding your triggers matters most — and where the traditional "here's a cream, see you in 3 months" approach fails hardest. If you're dealing with something else, reach out — we're expanding based on what our members need.
Is my data protected?
Is my data protected?
Your data is encrypted, never sold, and never used for advertising. You can export it. You can delete it anytime. Read our full privacy policy below.
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
You could — if you could get an appointment, afford the visit, and somehow give them access to absolutely everything that happened between visits. The reality: your dermatologist sees a snapshot. Symphony sees the full picture — what you ate, how you slept, what products you used, how stressed you were — and connects it to how your skin responded. We're not replacing your dermatologist. We're giving them (and you) context they'd never otherwise have.
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
If you've been dealing with a chronic skin condition and still don't fully understand why your skin flares — you're a good candidate. Symphony works best for people willing to track consistently (a few minutes a day) and who want to understand their patterns, not just treat symptoms. If you're looking for a quick fix or a magic cream recommendation, we're probably not the right fit.
What if I've tried everything already?
What if I've tried everything already?
Then you're exactly who we built this for. "Tried everything" usually means you've tried a lot of products and treatments — but you've never had the tools to see how your skin actually responds to your life. Symphony doesn't give you more things to try. It helps you understand what's already happening — so the next thing you try is actually informed by your data. It knowing instead of guessing.
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Symphony's AI and tracking tools are not a replacement for medical advice — they help you understand patterns in your own data, but they don't diagnose or prescribe.
That said, we know insights alone aren't always enough. That's why our Premium tier includes referrals to specialist dermatology consultations, gut and skin microbiome testing, and comprehensive lab panels — actual specialists who review your Symphony data.
The app gives you context and understanding. When you need clinical expertise, we connect you with professionals who understand your story.
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
Most "AI skincare" apps take a photo, run it through a basic algorithm, and recommend products they get commission on. They're not trying to help you understand your skin — they're trying to sell you things. Symphony doesn't work that way. We analyze your symptoms, lifestyle, stress, diet, and products over time to find patterns unique to you. We don't sell skincare products directly, and our recommendations are based on your data — not affiliate deals.
When we do recommend products, we're checking thousands of products against YOUR specific sensitivities and triggers. The goal is to stop you wasting money, not to add to the pile of half-used bottles under your sink.
Can I cancel anytime?
Can I cancel anytime?
Yes. No contracts, no cancellation fees. If Symphony isn't working for you, you can cancel in a few clicks. We'd rather earn your trust every month than trap you in one.
Your questions.
Answered.
Not sure what to expect? These answers might help you feel more confident as you begin.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Symphony is built for chronic skin conditions: acne, eczema, psoriasis, and topical steroid withdrawal (TSW). These are the conditions where understanding your triggers matters most — and where the traditional "here's a cream, see you in 3 months" approach fails hardest. If you're dealing with something else, reach out — we're expanding based on what our members need.
Is my data protected?
Is my data protected?
Your data is encrypted, never sold, and never used for advertising. You can export it. You can delete it anytime. Read our full privacy policy below.
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
You could — if you could get an appointment, afford the visit, and somehow give them access to absolutely everything that happened between visits. The reality: your dermatologist sees a snapshot. Symphony sees the full picture — what you ate, how you slept, what products you used, how stressed you were — and connects it to how your skin responded. We're not replacing your dermatologist. We're giving them (and you) context they'd never otherwise have.
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
If you've been dealing with a chronic skin condition and still don't fully understand why your skin flares — you're a good candidate. Symphony works best for people willing to track consistently (a few minutes a day) and who want to understand their patterns, not just treat symptoms. If you're looking for a quick fix or a magic cream recommendation, we're probably not the right fit.
What if I've tried everything already?
What if I've tried everything already?
Then you're exactly who we built this for. "Tried everything" usually means you've tried a lot of products and treatments — but you've never had the tools to see how your skin actually responds to your life. Symphony doesn't give you more things to try. It helps you understand what's already happening — so the next thing you try is actually informed by your data. It knowing instead of guessing.
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Symphony's AI and tracking tools are not a replacement for medical advice — they help you understand patterns in your own data, but they don't diagnose or prescribe.
That said, we know insights alone aren't always enough. That's why our Premium tier includes referrals to specialist dermatology consultations, gut and skin microbiome testing, and comprehensive lab panels — actual specialists who review your Symphony data.
The app gives you context and understanding. When you need clinical expertise, we connect you with professionals who understand your story.
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
Most "AI skincare" apps take a photo, run it through a basic algorithm, and recommend products they get commission on. They're not trying to help you understand your skin — they're trying to sell you things. Symphony doesn't work that way. We analyze your symptoms, lifestyle, stress, diet, and products over time to find patterns unique to you. We don't sell skincare products directly, and our recommendations are based on your data — not affiliate deals.
When we do recommend products, we're checking thousands of products against YOUR specific sensitivities and triggers. The goal is to stop you wasting money, not to add to the pile of half-used bottles under your sink.
Can I cancel anytime?
Can I cancel anytime?
Yes. No contracts, no cancellation fees. If Symphony isn't working for you, you can cancel in a few clicks. We'd rather earn your trust every month than trap you in one.
Didn’t find your answer? Send us a message at
hello@proton-health.com — we’ll respond with care and clarity.
Your questions.
Answered.
Not sure what to expect? These answers might help you feel more confident as you begin.
Didn’t find your answer? Send us a message at
hello@proton-health.com — we’ll respond with care and clarity.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Symphony is built for chronic skin conditions: acne, eczema, psoriasis, and topical steroid withdrawal (TSW). These are the conditions where understanding your triggers matters most — and where the traditional "here's a cream, see you in 3 months" approach fails hardest. If you're dealing with something else, reach out — we're expanding based on what our members need.
Is my data protected?
Is my data protected?
Your data is encrypted, never sold, and never used for advertising. You can export it. You can delete it anytime. Read our full privacy policy below.
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
You could — if you could get an appointment, afford the visit, and somehow give them access to absolutely everything that happened between visits. The reality: your dermatologist sees a snapshot. Symphony sees the full picture — what you ate, how you slept, what products you used, how stressed you were — and connects it to how your skin responded. We're not replacing your dermatologist. We're giving them (and you) context they'd never otherwise have.
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
If you've been dealing with a chronic skin condition and still don't fully understand why your skin flares — you're a good candidate. Symphony works best for people willing to track consistently (a few minutes a day) and who want to understand their patterns, not just treat symptoms. If you're looking for a quick fix or a magic cream recommendation, we're probably not the right fit.
What if I've tried everything already?
What if I've tried everything already?
Then you're exactly who we built this for. "Tried everything" usually means you've tried a lot of products and treatments — but you've never had the tools to see how your skin actually responds to your life. Symphony doesn't give you more things to try. It helps you understand what's already happening — so the next thing you try is actually informed by your data. It knowing instead of guessing.
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Symphony's AI and tracking tools are not a replacement for medical advice — they help you understand patterns in your own data, but they don't diagnose or prescribe.
That said, we know insights alone aren't always enough. That's why our Premium tier includes referrals to specialist dermatology consultations, gut and skin microbiome testing, and comprehensive lab panels — actual specialists who review your Symphony data.
The app gives you context and understanding. When you need clinical expertise, we connect you with professionals who understand your story.
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
Most "AI skincare" apps take a photo, run it through a basic algorithm, and recommend products they get commission on. They're not trying to help you understand your skin — they're trying to sell you things. Symphony doesn't work that way. We analyze your symptoms, lifestyle, stress, diet, and products over time to find patterns unique to you. We don't sell skincare products directly, and our recommendations are based on your data — not affiliate deals.
When we do recommend products, we're checking thousands of products against YOUR specific sensitivities and triggers. The goal is to stop you wasting money, not to add to the pile of half-used bottles under your sink.
Can I cancel anytime?
Can I cancel anytime?
Yes. No contracts, no cancellation fees. If Symphony isn't working for you, you can cancel in a few clicks. We'd rather earn your trust every month than trap you in one.

