How to Treat Ear Eczema: Causes and Effective Remedies
Ear eczema is a condition that makes the skin in and around the ear dry, itchy, and sometimes bumpy.[1] It can affect the outside of your ear or even the inside of your ear canal. Essentially, eczema damages the skin's barrier (the "glue" that holds it together), making your skin more sensitive and prone to dryness or infection.
If you’ve experienced this condition, read on to discover certain causes and learn about some helpful remedies to manage it.
Ear Eczema Causes
Ear eczema can happen to anyone, but it’s more common in people who have:
- A personal or family history of eczema
- Asthma
- Environmental allergies, including hay fever
Eczema is quite common, affecting about 15-30% of children and 2-10% of adults. It can appear anywhere on the skin, including the ears. [2]
Eczema in ears can develop in your ears due to several causes, including:
- Atopic Dermatitis Ear Eczema. This is when your immune system overreacts to items and substances, such as earrings, hair products, or allergens. [3]
- Asteatotic Eczema. Often caused by dry air (like in winter), leading to itchy, dry skin.
- Seborrheic Eczema Ears (dermatitis). Often found in oily areas of the body like the ears, it may be linked to excess yeast on the skin.
Ear eczema can impact different areas of your ears, including:
- Your outer ear (pinna) and ear lobes
- Your ear canals
- Behind your ears
Ear Eczema vs. Psoriasis: A Quick Clarification
Though they both affect the skin, ear eczema and psoriasis are different. Psoriasis is a chronic condition that causes thick, scaly patches [4], while eczema usually leads to more intense itching and affects the skin on and around your ears. Many people may experience both conditions at different times in their lives.
Ear Eczema Symptoms
Symptoms of eczema on ears might include:
- Itchy, dry skin
- Red, discolored rashes
- Bumps or leathery patches
- Crusty skin or swelling (take a look at other possible causes for a swollen ear canal)
- Ears might feel hot
While this isn’t usually painful, scratching it can break the skin and cause infections — sometimes leading to the formation of pimples in the ear — which could result in pain. In severe cases, you may experience fluid leakage or even hearing loss.
Concerned you may have hearing loss? Take our online hearing quiz today.
How is This Condition Diagnosed?
Your doctor will examine your ears for signs like dryness or discoloration. If needed, they may perform additional tests, like:
- Allergy skin tests
- Blood tests
- Skin biopsies
Ear Eczema Treatments
To treat eczema on ear lobes or other parts of the ear, you first need to figure out what triggers it. Here are a few ear eczema home treatments that can help:
Take a look at these 7 Itchy Ear Home Remedies for more ideas.
Prescription treatments, like steroid creams or ear drops for eczema, may be necessary if over-the-counter options aren’t enough. Always make sure to consult with your doctor to make sure you’re getting the right treatment plan.
How Soon Will I Feel Better?
With proper treatment, most people see improvement within 1 to 3 weeks. While treatment can control flare-ups, you may experience them periodically throughout your life.
Ear Eczema Prevention Tips
To reduce the risk of flare-ups, follow these steps:
While eczema can be managed effectively with the right treatment, flare-ups may occur. The key is identifying and avoiding triggers, moisturizing, and following your doctor’s advice.
When Should I See a Doctor?
If you notice symptoms or if your ear eczema isn’t improving with at-home treatments, consult your doctor. They can help you determine if it’s eczema or something else and provide a treatment plan.
Managing eczema around ears can be challenging, but with the right care and treatment, you can keep it under control. Stay consistent with your routine, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for help.
Amplifon Hearing Health Care is here to help answer all your hearing health questions. Take a look at our blog for helpful information on hearing conditions, ear care, and more.
Take control of your hearing health
Request a hearing evaluation
Request an appointment at a hearing care provider near you.
We appreciate you reaching out to us.
Our hearing care advocates will call you shortly and help answer all your questions.Sources:
[1] National Eczema Society. “Introduction to Ear Eczema”. Retrieved from https://eczema.org/information-and-advice/types-of-eczema/ear-eczema/
[2] Cleveland Clinic. “How Common is Ear Eczema?” Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21842-ear-eczema
[3] Mayo Clinic. “Atopic Dermatitis”. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/atopic-dermatitis-eczema/symptoms-causes/syc-20353273
[4] National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. “Psoriasis Basics”. Retrieved from https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/psoriasis/basics/symptoms-causes
[5] National Eczema Society. “Clothing and Eczema”. Retrieved from https://eczema.org/information-and-advice/triggers-for-eczema/clothing-and-eczema/
Good hearing matters
