How to Relieve Eczema Symptoms at Night for More Restful Sleep

Many U.S. adults struggle with sleep, and if you have a chronic condition, it may make sleep even more challenging. For example, eczema may cause intense itch, and this may keep you awake. 

“Over time, [lack of sleep] is going to affect your ability to concentrate [and] your ability to go to work or school,” says Nkem Ugonabo, MD, Dermatologist at UnionDerm in New York City. “It can really have a tremendous impact on quality of life.”

How can I cope with eczema itch at night?

First of all, avoid scratching as much as you can. Scratching an eczema rash may make the itch worse. Instead, try these tips.

1. Moisturize with creams and ointments regularly, especially before bed

Use thick creams and ointments (instead of lotions) when possible. These tend to be more moisturizing.

2. Moisturize, and then wrap with plastic wrap

For particularly dry areas, add moisturizer, and then wrap the area with plastic wrap. In the morning, remove wrap: You should notice very soft and hydrated skin. This may be especially helpful for hand and foot eczema.

3. Wear cotton gloves at night to prevent scratching

If you accidentally scratch your skin a lot at night, try wearing cotton gloves. This may keep your fingernails from scratching your skin. You may also be able to find “eczema sleeves” which cover areas with itchy rashes.

4. Choose soft bedding made of 100% cotton

First, cotton bed linens should be soft and won’t usually irritate your skin at night. Second, cotton bedding can withstand being washed in hot water. High heat helps get rid of allergens, such as dust mites. This may be helpful for people whose eczema is triggered by allergens. The material may also allow body heat to be better regulated.

“If you’re finding yourself not being able to sleep at night, if you’re constantly scratching, [or] if it’s covering a significant portion of your body, this might be classified as severe eczema and your dermatologist may want to treat it more aggressively,” says Dr. Ugonabo.