Eczema vs Acne: What’s the difference?

Eczema and acne are both skin conditions that can cause the skin on the face to be red, irritated, and inflamed. Because of their similar appearance, it may be difficult to determine whether you have eczema or acne. In this post, we’ll discuss the difference between eczema vs acne, as well as provide some ideas on how you can manage symptoms. 

What is Eczema?

Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that’s characterized by patches of red, itchy, and dry skin. A damaged skin barrier means that it’s harder for the skin to retain moisture, hence the dryness. Experts aren’t sure what exactly causes eczema but it’s believed to be linked to a combination of environmental factors and genetics. Some common triggers that can cause an eczema flare up include sweat, smoke, pet fur, mould, certain fabrics like nylon and latex, chemicals found in beauty products or skincare, and even the food you eat. Eczema can occur anywhere on the body. Although it usually develops during childhood, it can appear at any age. 

What is Acne?

Acne is a skin condition that affects the oil glands under your skin. It develops when the tunnels connecting the glands to your pores get clogged with excess oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells. This is what causes a pimple to form. Typically acne breakouts happen on your face, neck, back, or shoulders as these tend to be areas where the skin is oilier than usual due to an oversecretion of sebum. Acne tends to run in families. It can also appear when you’re under stress, experiencing hormonal changes (such as during puberty or pregnancy), or use poor quality skincare or makeup products. 

Eczema vs Acne

Eczema and acne are similar in the sense that symptoms can appear at any age and can be a cause of embarrassment. The difference is that acne is not caused by immune system response whereas eczema is. Eczema is also a dry skin condition that’s associated with a damaged skin barrier that has trouble retaining water. Acne, on the other hand, is associated with oily skin. Some people wonder, ‘does eczema cause acne’? While it’s possible to have both conditions simultaneously, one does not cause the other. In addition, since eczema is associated with dry skin and acne is associated with oily skin, it’s rare to have both conditions in the same location. 

A key difference between these conditions is that eczema is incredibly itching and pimples are not. 

How to Manage Symptoms the Natural Way 

Use a Skin-Friendly Soap

We recommend using a soft and soothing soap that your sensitive skin will love. This natural Coconut and Sunflower Oil Soap Bar is both nourishing and moisturizing. Because of  its gentle ingredients, it’s safe to use for eczema, acne, psoriasis, rosacea and more. Offering a light, clean smell, it’s safe to use from face to toes. 

Embrace natural skincare 

Lastly, we are big believers in clean beauty. These products use natural and safe ingredients that work in harmony with your skin. We recommend this Grass Fed Tallow Balm as tallow is one of the world’s earliest and purest forms of skincare. The lavender balm is full of antibiotic and antiseptic properties which helps promote healing and prevents scarring – perfect for both eczema and acne!