Recognizing Eczema in Skin of Color

Man with dark skin scratching at eczema on his arm. Eczema can affect anyone, but it often presents differently in people with dark skin tones vs. lighter tones, which can make it harder to recognize. 

At Skin & Beauty Center, our board-certified dermatologists care for all skin types and tones. They offer expert guidance at convenient locations across Southern California, including Burbank, Northridge, Glendale, West Hills, Santa Clarita, Glendale – Verdugo Hills, Pasadena, and Westlake Village.

If you’re unsure whether your symptoms or your child’s symptoms might be eczema, we can help you know what to look for and when to seek professional care at Skin & Beauty Center.

What Does Eczema Look Like on Darker Skin?

While eczema is commonly associated with redness in lighter skin, eczema in darker skin tones may appear as:

  • Dark brown, purple, or gray patches
  • Dry or rough skin
  • Thickened areas of skin from frequent scratching
  • Ashy or scaly skin in the affected areas

These differences can sometimes make eczema harder to identify, or it can even be mistaken for another skin condition

Other Signs to Look For

Itching is one of the most common and frustrating symptoms of eczema. This can range from mild to severe and often disrupts sleep. You might also notice:

  • Patches of skin that feel dry, cracked, or irritated
  • Areas that darken or lighten after healing
  • Swollen or inflamed skin during flare-ups

On darker skin, eczema is less likely to look red and more likely to result in post-inflammatory color changes, which can last even after the condition is under control.

Treating Eczema at Skin & Beauty Center

Our board-certified dermatologists at Skin & Beauty Center are experienced in treating eczema in patients of all skin tones, including darker skin. 

Treatment options may include:

  • Prescription-strength topical medications like hydrocortisone or calcineurin inhibitors 
  • Advanced therapies like JAK inhibitors or phototherapy
  • Recommendations for eczema-friendly skincare routines

Book an Appointment for Eczema Treatment Near You

Eczema in skin of color can be managed with the right care. At Skin & Beauty Center, we provide advanced treatments at our locations across Southern California, including Burbank, Northridge, Glendale, West Hills, Santa Clarita, Glendale – Verdugo Hills, Pasadena, and Westlake Village. Call 818-842-8000 today to schedule an appointment.

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