Medically reviewed by Joshua Fox, MD, FAAD and Loretta Pratt, MD · September 2026
Struggling with both eczema and acne can make skin care feel like a huge hurdle. Both are inflammatory skin conditions that can cause visible changes to the skin, so it’s also possible to confuse one for the other.
However, eczema and acne have different causes and therefore different treatments. Luckily, some treatments and lifestyle changes overlap and may help manage both conditions.
What causes acne?
Acne can be painful and irritating, and persistent acne can lead to emotional distress. It can appear on the face, back and chest and typically presents as:
- Blackheads
- Pimples
- Small red bumps
- Large solid painful bumps
- Pus-filled lumps
- Whiteheads
The cause of acne is blocked pores. Pores become blocked by oil, bacteria and dead skin. Within each pore, there is also a hair follicle and an oil gland. The pore becomes blocked either from an accumulation of bacteria and build-up or because the follicle is over-producing oil.
What causes eczema flare-ups?
What causes eczema flare-ups can differ for everyone. Eczema is a type of dermatitis that causes itchy, inflamed and dry skin.
Eczema flare-ups can be caused by any of the following:
- Dry skin
- Stress
- Fabrics
- Temperature
- Harsh soaps
- Pet dander
- Irritants, including smoke, metals, fragrances, antibacterial ointments, as well as certain common ingredients like formaldehyde, Cocamidopropyl, isothiazolinone or paraphenylenediamine
Treatment for eczema may include topical medications and other approaches depending on the type and severity of the condition. The American Academy of Dermatology provides an overview of eczema types and treatments, including common approaches to managing the condition. Because some acne products can irritate sensitive skin, managing eczema and acne together may require a more individualized approach.
How to treat eczema and acne skin
When you are managing both inflammatory skin conditions, treatment can require balancing acne control with protecting sensitive, eczema-prone skin. For starters, salicylic acid may help with acne because it can unclog pores and remove dead skin cells.
Salicylic acid has several uses in dermatology because it can loosen and remove dead skin cells. Research has examined its use in several dermatologic conditions, including acne. It also helps soften keratin, which may help loosen accumulated dead skin. For acne, salicylic acid unclogs pores and helps remove dead skin cells that can contribute to breakouts.
A gentle skin care routine can also help support the skin barrier. Fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers may be better tolerated by sensitive skin. Other acne treatments, including retinoids and benzoyl peroxide, can be effective but may cause irritation in some people with eczema. A dermatologist can help determine which ingredients and treatments are appropriate for your skin.
Additionally, both acne and eczema can cause scars or hyperpigmentation. These issues can make you feel self-conscious about your appearance. Dermatologists can help with eczema and acne treatment using options that best suit your skin needs. In some cases, treatments such as laser resurfacing, microneedling or chemical peels may be considered for appropriate concerns once active inflammation is under control.
Building a dual-condition skin care routine
When you have acne and eczema together, a simple routine can help reduce the risk of over-treating or irritating your skin. This type of skin care for acne and eczema focuses on managing breakouts while supporting the skin barrier.
Start by choosing gentle, fragrance-free products and avoid introducing several new active ingredients at once. If you are using prescription acne or eczema medications, follow your dermatologist’s instructions for when and where to apply them.
Learn more about best skincare routines for acne-prone skin.
Morning routine
- Cleanse: Use a gentle cleanser or rinse with lukewarm water
- Treat: If your dermatologist has recommended an acne treatment for daytime use, apply it as directed
- Moisturize: Apply a moisturizer formulated for sensitive skin
- Protect: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen
Evening routine
- Cleanse: Gently remove sunscreen, makeup and daily buildup without scrubbing
- Treat: Apply prescribed or dermatologist-recommended treatments as directed
- Moisturize: Follow with a moisturizer to support the skin barrier
- Watch for irritation: If your skin becomes increasingly dry, red or irritated, contact a dermatologist for guidance
How lifestyle changes can help with acne and eczema
The other commonality shared by both acne and eczema is that lifestyle factors can play a big role. Stress may contribute to flare-ups for some people with acne and eczema. This is why it is important to exercise, get enough rest, practice mindfulness and speak to a professional when you are feeling overwhelmed.
Diet can also affect the skin differently from person to person. If you notice a pattern between certain foods and recurring flare-ups or breakouts, consider discussing your concerns with a dermatologist or another qualified health professional rather than making broad dietary changes on your own.
Both skin conditions may benefit from avoiding unnecessary product overload; however, daily SPF is still important. Choosing gentle products and paying attention to personal triggers may help you better understand what affects your skin. For additional guidance on managing eczema and identifying potential triggers, the National Eczema Association offers eczema education and patient resources.
If you are coping with both acne and eczema, it can also help to reach out for professional help. You can book an in-person or virtual appointment with a dermatologist at Advanced Dermatology, P.C. for personalized guidance.
When to see a dermatologist for both conditions
Acne and eczema can be difficult to manage together because treatments for one condition may sometimes irritate the other. Consider seeing a dermatologist if over-the-counter products cause persistent irritation, your eczema frequently flares, your acne is painful or leaving marks, or you are unsure which products are appropriate for your skin.
A dermatologist can evaluate your symptoms and recommend a treatment approach that addresses both conditions while accounting for your skin sensitivity.
Frequently asked questions
Can you have acne and eczema at the same time?
Yes. You can have acne and eczema together, including on different areas of the body. Because both conditions can cause redness, irritation and changes in skin texture, it can sometimes be difficult to tell them apart. A dermatologist can help identify each condition and recommend treatments that are appropriate for your skin.
Is salicylic acid safe for eczema-prone skin?
Although salicylic acid may be useful for acne, using it on eczema-prone skin requires more caution because it can cause dryness or irritation. It should be used cautiously, especially during an active eczema flare. A dermatologist can help determine whether salicylic acid is appropriate for your skin and recommend a suitable formulation.
Should I use different products for acne and eczema?
Possibly. Some people benefit from using acne treatments only on breakout-prone areas while using gentle, barrier-supporting products on areas affected by eczema. The right approach depends on where each condition occurs and how sensitive your skin is.
Can stress cause both acne and eczema flare-ups?
Stress may contribute to acne breakouts and eczema flare-ups for some people. Maintaining healthy routines, getting adequate rest and identifying your personal triggers may help you better manage recurring symptoms.