Yes, eczema can occur on or around bruised or injured skin. In fact, eczema itself can sometimes cause bruising as a symptom, so the two can overlap. Eczema damages the skin's natural protective barrier, which makes injured or compromised skin even more vulnerable. Here's what to watch for when eczema affects Show Full Answer
Yes, eczema can occur on or around bruised or injured skin. In fact, eczema itself can sometimes cause bruising as a symptom, so the two can overlap. Eczema damages the skin's natural protective barrier, which makes injured or compromised skin even more vulnerable. Here's what to watch for when eczema affects already-damaged skin:
- Increased infection risk — broken or cracked skin is an easy entry point for bacteria
- Weeping or oozing — fluid-filled blisters can form and burst, leaving crusting behind
- Cracking and bleeding — severely dry skin can split open, especially over time
- Thickening — repeated damage can cause skin to become leathery and rough (called lichenification)
If you notice skin that looks pink, cracked, and oozy in an injured area, it's worth contacting your doctor. That combination can sometimes signal a bacterial infection on top of the eczema, which may need treatment with a topical or oral antibiotic.
The sooner it's caught, the easier it is to manage — and it could save you from a much longer flare-up down the road.
August 6
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