Why Does Eczema Itch at Night? An Expert's Guide

The good news is that you're not going crazy; the bad news is that the symptoms of eczema can get worse at night. This is because our cortisol levels drop during the night, leaving us without the natural “protection” against itching and hot skin. Many people accidentally scratch eczema patches at night, which can make them worse. To reduce the risk of scratching, keep your nails trimmed and tidy.

Another factor that contributes to increased itching just before bedtime is that during the night, our body temperature tends to rise. This can lead to inflammation and itching for some patients. Additionally, our core body temperature and brain temperature drop in the hours before sleep, which can make the skin, hands and feet warmer and itchy. People with eczema can also suffer from sensory hypersensitivity, which can cause their brains to mistake the sensations of touch with something that itches.

Clean and soft sheets made of breathable fabrics are the best choice for people with eczema who want to sleep better at night. Night scratching can cause inflammation, worsen skin irritation, and without daytime distractions, itching may appear more intense. To reduce itching, take a supplement with this hormone that your body produces to trigger sleep or press a certain point on the arm to help relieve the itching of eczema anywhere on the body. Additionally, controlling the temperature levels in your room when you go to sleep may be able to reduce the severity of symptoms. Eczema is a common, non-contagious skin condition that can cause itching, rashes, rough patches, and pain.

While researchers aren't quite sure what causes eczema, genetic and environmental triggers may be to blame. The same habits that help people without eczema sleep better can also be applied to people with eczema. If you're managing severe eczema, you probably have questions about the most effective treatments and what dermatologists suggest. The good news is that there are ways to reduce itching at night for those suffering from eczema. Keeping your nails trimmed and tidy will help reduce the risk of scratching eczema patches and making them worse.

Taking a supplement with this hormone that your body produces to trigger sleep or pressing a certain point on the arm can help relieve the itching of eczema anywhere on the body. Additionally, controlling the temperature levels in your room when you go to sleep may be able to reduce the severity of symptoms. Investing in bedding that is less likely to cause itchy skin is also important. Silk, satin or artificial materials are not skin-soothing; instead opt for clean and soft sheets made of breathable fabrics. Finally, getting enough sleep is essential for both your health and mental well-being as well as reducing eczema symptoms.

Riya Hutchings
Riya Hutchings

On a quest to combat Contact Dermatitis!