Eczema and acne are two of the most common skin concerns, yet they require very different approaches to treatment. While acne is often linked to excess oil production and clogged pores, eczema is caused by a weakened skin barrier and inflammation.
Managing both conditions at the same time can be challenging, but a natural skincare routine focusing on gentle, soothing ingredients, including a natural soap bar with natural ingredients can help.
If you struggle with sensitive, acne-prone skin, we’re happy to provide you with this small guide to how to balance your skincare routine with calming, non-irritating, and effective solutions.
1. Choose a Gentle, Non-Stripping Cleanser
Cleansing is an essential step, but the wrong cleanser can worsen both eczema and acne by stripping away natural moisture and irritating the skin barrier. Harsh cleansers often contain sulfates that leave the skin feeling tight and dry, triggering more oil production and inflammation.
The Ideal Cleansers for Eczema and Acne-Prone Skin:
- Cream or gel-based cleansers – Hydrate while gently removing impurities
- pH-balanced formulas – Help maintain the skin’s natural protective barrier
- Micellar water – A great option for removing makeup without irritating the skin
Ingredients to Look For:
- Colloidal oatmeal – Soothes irritation and reduces redness
- Aloe vera – Hydrates and calms inflamed skin
- Green tea extract – Contains antioxidants that help reduce acne-related inflammation
What to Avoid:
- Foaming cleansers with sulfates – Can strip essential moisture
- Fragrances and essential oils – May trigger irritation in sensitive skin
- Alcohol-based formulas – Can disrupt the skin barrier and lead to dryness
2. Hydrate with Barrier-Strengthening Moisturizers
Eczema-prone skin lacks moisture and struggles to retain hydration, while acne-prone skin often experiences dehydration due to harsh treatments. The key is to use a lightweight yet deeply hydrating moisturizer that replenishes the skin barrier without clogging pores.
Ideal Moisturizers for Dual Concerns:
- Gel-based formulas – Absorb quickly and don’t feel greasy
- Barrier creams – Restore moisture while locking out irritants
Ingredients to Look For:
- Ceramides – Help rebuild the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss
- Squalane – A non-comedogenic oil that hydrates without clogging pores
- Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) – Reduces redness, strengthens the barrier, and minimizes breakouts
What to Avoid:
- Heavy occlusives like coconut oil – Can trap bacteria and worsen acne
- Essential oils like peppermint or citrus – Can trigger eczema flare-ups
3. Soothe Inflammation with Targeted Treatments
Both eczema and acne are inflammatory conditions, so using the right soothing ingredients can help calm flare-ups. Instead of harsh acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide, opt for gentle yet effective plant-based alternatives.
Natural Ingredients That Reduce Inflammation:
- Centella Asiatica (Cica) – Known for its healing and anti-redness properties
- Chamomile extract – Soothes irritation and reduces itching
- Zinc – Helps regulate oil production and calms inflammation
For acne, salicylic acid (derived from willow bark) can help clear clogged pores, while for eczema, colloidal oatmeal provides deep relief from itchiness and irritation.
What to Avoid:
- Over-exfoliation – Harsh scrubs and acids can weaken the skin barrier
- Tea tree oil in high concentrations – Can be too drying for sensitive skin
4. Protect Your Skin with a Non-Irritating Sunscreen
Sun exposure can trigger both eczema and acne flare-ups, making sunscreen an essential step in any routine. However, many sunscreens contain chemical filters that can be irritating. Opt for a mineral-based sunscreen that provides gentle yet effective protection.
Ingredients to Look For:
- Zinc oxide – A natural anti-inflammatory that soothes while protecting the skin
- Titanium dioxide – A gentle UV filter suitable for sensitive skin
- Hyaluronic acid – Adds hydration to prevent dryness from sun exposure
What to Avoid:
- Chemical sunscreens with oxybenzone or avobenzone – Can trigger sensitivity
- Fragrance-heavy sunscreens – May lead to redness or irritation
5. Support Your Skin from Within
Skincare is only one piece of the puzzle—lifestyle factors like diet, stress, and sleep play a major role in managing both eczema and acne.
Holistic Strategies for Clear, Healthy Skin:
- Increase Omega-3 intake – Found in flaxseeds and salmon, these help reduce inflammation
- Stay hydrated – Drink plenty of water to keep skin plump and resilient
- Reduce dairy and processed sugar – These can trigger breakouts in acne-prone individuals
- Manage stress levels – Chronic stress leads to increased cortisol, which can exacerbate skin issues
Achieving Balance with a Gentle, Natural Approach
Managing eczema and acne simultaneously requires a careful, balanced approach that prioritizes barrier protection, inflammation reduction, and hydration. By choosing gentle cleansers, soothing treatments, and non-irritating moisturizers, you can create a skincare routine that nurtures your skin while minimizing flare-ups.
Instead of relying on harsh treatments that may worsen sensitivity, embrace natural ingredients and lifestyle habits that promote long-term skin health. Your skin deserves calm, nourishing care, and with the right approach, you can achieve a clearer, healthier complexion—naturally.