Eczema and skin colour: how are different complexions affected?

The manifestations of eczema are generally the same regardless of skin tone. Whether the skin is very pale, very dark, or golden, theeczema causes the appearance of more or less extensive and swollen lesions accompanied by intense itching. These can appear all over the body. Blisters filled with clear fluid then appear at the site of the lesions before breaking, naturally or due to scratching. The scabs they subsequently leave heal to varying degrees. However, there are some slight differences in the symptoms of eczema depending on skin tones, particularly in terms of the colour of the lesions.

• Eczema in Black Skin.

  Eczema in black skin manifests as grey to brown coloured lesions. These are darker than the rest of the body. This is particularly noticeable when the eczema is at the stage of lichenification , that is, when the skin becomes rough and thickens. Moreover, individuals with black skin are quite prone to hyperpigmentation issues. Indeed, under the effect of scratching and inflammation, it happens that eczema leaves brown spots . This phenomenon is more common in black skin, which naturally synthesises a darker form of melanin, called eumelanin.

• Eczema in Asian and dark skin types.

  The symptoms of eczema in individuals with Asian to dark skin are quite similar to those in individuals with black skin. However, the lesions are slightly lighter and tend to be more red and brown in colour. It's also worth noting that the risk of hyperpigmentation is also present in individuals with Asian to dark skin.

• Eczema in fair skin.

  Eczematous lesions in individuals with fair skin often present as highly visible red patches. However, those with fair skin are less frequently faced with pigmented spots.

Eczema treatments are the same for all skin tones. They involve the application of cortisone creams, which are recognised anti-inflammatories. These are applied only during eczema flare-ups and on the lesions, once a day. One of the feared side effects of these creams is the hypopigmentation they sometimes cause. However, it should be noted that this risk is very limited if the corticosteroids are used according to the recommendations of dermatologists. The regular application of an emollient is also advised.

Sometimes, dermatologists also suggest resorting to phototherapy to alleviate eczema. The intensity of the UV rays and the duration of exposure depend on the patient's skin type. Indeed, the lighter the skin, the more cautiously phototherapy should be used to avoid damaging the skin. UVB rays are generally favoured, although some phototherapy sessions involve a combination of UVA and UVB, or a mix of UVA and an oral psoralen, a photosensitising medication.