If you have eczema, you’ve probably had a flare-up. Sometimes you know the trigger, and other times, you’re left guessing. As you learn more about your condition, you become more aware of your triggers. If you need to get a vaccine, you might wonder if it could cause a flare.

Is the COVID-19 Vaccine Safe?

The COVID-19 vaccine was created to help protect people during the pandemic. Similar to other vaccines, it’s designed to help your immune system fight the virus so you don’t get sick or develop severe symptoms. The COVID-19 vaccines currently available in the United States (Pfizer, Moderna, Novavax) meet the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requirements for a safe and effective vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the vaccine as the preferred method to build immunity against COVID-19.

What About Vaccine Side Effects?

After getting the COVID-19 vaccine, you’ll be asked to stay for about 15 minutes to make sure you don’t have an immediate reaction. About 1.9 percent of people developed cutaneous (skin) reactions after their first vaccine dose. These reactions include pain and swelling at the injection site, urticaria (hives), measles-like rash, and a delayed reaction called “COVID arm.” There’s no strong evidence that the COVID-19 vaccine causes eczema or triggers an eczema flare.

Other side effects can affect your whole body, such as muscle aches, fatigue, or fever. After you get the vaccine, if you have side effects, you might want to take it easy for the rest of the day and stay hydrated. You can also use a cold compress at the injection site to ease discomfort.

It’s very rare, but some people have had severe reactions like anaphylaxis (a serious allergic reaction) or myocarditis, which is inflammation of the heart. These may happen if you’re allergic to an ingredient in the vaccine, or they may develop by coincidence around the same time.

Both anaphylaxis and myocarditis are medical emergencies and require immediate treatment. If you’re worried about allergies and how they might affect your response to the vaccine, talk to your doctor or dermatologist before getting vaccinated.

Is the Vaccine Safe for People With Eczema?

An eczema flare-up can be triggered by allergies, such as pollen or pet dander, or by an overactive immune system. Because of the immune system’s involvement, some people with eczema may be prescribed medication to calm it down. If you take immunosuppressive medication, it might be especially important to get the COVID-19 vaccine to lower your risk of coronavirus.

What About Eczema Flare-Ups?

Even if you have eczema, you might still get a skin reaction to the vaccine. An eczema flare-up after the COVID-19 vaccine is possible, but reports are rare. It’s not always easy to tell what causes a flare-up. Was it the vaccine, the stress of getting vaccinated, the latex gloves used, or something else entirely?

Even if you do have a skin reaction or eczema flare after receiving the vaccine, it can be managed. You can use treatments you’ve relied on in the past, such as cold compresses, topical treatments, or medications your doctor has prescribed. If you start to develop any symptoms after the vaccine that concern you, it’s always best to consult your healthcare provider.

If you have any specific questions about your eczema and the vaccine, your dermatology or primary care provider is a great resource.

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On MyEczemaTeam, people share their experiences with eczema, get advice, and find support from others who understand.

Have you received the COVID-19 vaccine? Did you notice any skin reaction afterward? Let others know in the comments below.