A recent study has determined that the frequency of bathing—whether daily or weekly—does not significantly impact the symptoms of eczema. The findings, published in the British Journal of Dermatology, provide important reassurance for individuals managing this common skin condition, allowing them the flexibility to choose their bathing habits without the concern of exacerbating their symptoms.
The Eczema Bathing Study was developed in collaboration with individuals living with eczema and researchers from the University of Nottingham and Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust. This study aimed to address frequent queries regarding optimal bathing practices for eczema patients.
Research involved a total of 438 participants from across the UK, including both adults and children. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups: those who bathed six or more times a week and those who bathed once or twice a week. Throughout the four-week study period, participants continued their usual treatments while documenting their eczema symptoms on a weekly basis.
Results showed no significant difference in symptom severity between the two groups. Lead Author Lucy Bradshaw, a Senior Medical Statistician at the Nottingham Clinical Trials Unit, expressed the positive implications of the findings: “The findings of our study are great news for people living with eczema. It means they can choose a frequency of bathing that suits them.”
Co-Chief Investigator Amanda Roberts, an eczema patient and caregiver, highlighted that the study alleviates one of many concerns for those living with the condition. “It is good to know frequency of bathing or showering is not one of them. One less thing to worry about,” she stated.
Insights from the Rapid Eczema Trials Project
The Eczema Bathing Study represents the first completed research effort as part of the broader Rapid Eczema Trials project initiated in 2022. This five-year research initiative aims to explore critical aspects of eczema management. The project has established an Eczema Citizen Science Community, inviting individuals from across the UK to participate in the design and execution of research studies.
The next phase of research will examine the optimal duration for using steroid creams to effectively manage eczema flare-ups. The Rapid Eczema Trials initiative is led by researchers at the University of Nottingham in collaboration with four additional UK universities: Southampton, Bristol, Birmingham City, and Imperial.
Matthew Ridd, a GP and Co-applicant from the University of Bristol, noted the significance of these findings in addressing common patient inquiries. “How often to have a bath or shower is such a simple but important issue that people with eczema often ask health care professionals for advice on,” he stated.
Patient-Centric Research Approach
The study’s design emphasizes the importance of patient involvement in research. Professor Marian Knight, Scientific Director for NIHR Infrastructure, commented on the value of this approach. “This study shows the value of the NIHR’s approach to putting patients and the public at the heart of everything we do. By working with people who live with eczema, the research team has been able to answer a question that has affected people’s quality of life for years.”
In conclusion, the findings highlight that bathing frequency does not influence eczema symptoms, empowering individuals to make choices that best suit their personal needs. This research contributes valuable knowledge to the ongoing efforts to improve the quality of life for those affected by eczema.
For further details, refer to the study: “Weekly versus daily bathing for people with eczema: results of the Eczema Bathing online randomised controlled trial,” published in the British Journal of Dermatology (2025). DOI: 10.1093/bjd/ljaf417.
