Eczema is a skin disease affecting millions of people. It is the cause of physical discomfort, but also sometimes psychological distress. Indeed, many misconceptions exist around this disease, making the daily life of those affected challenging. Among these misconceptions is the belief that eczema is a contagious disease, but what is the reality? This article provides some answers.
Eczema: Is it contagious?
Summary
Published on September 14, 2023, updated on July 3, 2025, by Sandrine, Scientific Editor — 4 min of reading
Themes:
Reviewed and validated version by dermatologist, Dr. B. LEVY GAREL (France).
Eczema, a common dermatological condition.
Eczema is the second most common dermatosis after acne. There is not one, but several types of eczema: theatopic eczema (or atopic dermatitis), thecontact eczema, theeczema dyshidrotic or even thenummular eczema.
Atopic eczema is the most common form of eczema. In France, it affects nearly 2 million people, or about 4% of the population. It is characterized by the appearance of itchy red patches with tiny blisters. There are elevations that give the skin a rough texture and swelling. Furthermore, atopic skin is extremely dry, a condition referred to as cutaneous xerosis.
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of multifactorial origin. There is a genetically predisposed atopic terrain that promotes the onset of eczema. Furthermore, studies have highlighted abnormalities affecting the gene coding for filaggrin as well as other molecules necessary for the proper functioning of the stratum corneum, thus causing a dysfunction of the skin barrier.
The prevalence of atopic dermatitis has significantly increased over the past few years. The environmental factors (pollution, smoking, dietary habits...) could potentially explain this surge.
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Eczema, a stigmatizing disease.
Although eczema affects a vast number of people, it remains a disease that is poorly understood by the general public. This lack of understanding fuels misconceptions about this condition, particularly the belief that it is contagious. Individuals affected by eczema suffer both physically and emotionally. This psychological impact is largely due to stigmatization. Indeed, many patients experience rejection, aggression, harassment, and discrimination.
Eczema, a non-contagious skin condition.
As previously mentioned, many people believe that eczema is a contagious disease. However, these prejudices are unfounded. Indeed,eczema cannot be transmitted through physical contact, whether direct or indirect. Eczema is a multifactorial condition that results from skin inflammation, not an infection. Therefore, eczema cannot be passed from one person to another. Thus, you are not at risk of contracting eczema after shaking hands, kissing on the cheek, or exchanging clothes with an affected person.
Source
LEINS L. et ORCHARD D. Eczema management in school-aged children. Australian Family Physician (2017).
