Eczema Bathing Study – how often should we bathe?
Living with eczema can be challenging, and people often receive mixed advice on how often they should wash. The Eczema Bathing Study aims to find out whether bathing or showering less often (1 to 2 times a week) or more often (6 or more times a week) is better for soothing skin symptoms. The trial is open to UK adults and children aged one year and older. You do not need to travel to a hospital or clinic, as the entire study takes place at home. Participants are placed by chance into one of two washing routines to follow for four weeks. You will continue using your regular moisturisers and creams as usual. Each week, you answer a few quick questions sent by text or email. The findings will help provide clear, practical guidance for families and healthcare professionals managing eczema.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Eczema is a common skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and irritated skin. People living with eczema often wonder how often they should take a bath or shower. Some believe that frequent washing dries the skin out, while others feel that regular washing cleans away irritants and soothes itchiness. Because there is little clear scientific evidence to prove which approach works best, doctors and patients often have to guess.
The Eczema Bathing Study is designed to solve this puzzle. Led by researchers at the University of Nottingham and Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, this trial was shaped with direct input from people who have eczema. By testing two common washing routines head-to-head, researchers hope to provide clear, practical advice that helps people manage their skin more effectively.
During the study, participants are asked to stick to a set bathing routine for four weeks. Half the participants will wash just once or twice a week, while the other half will wash six or more times a week. By comparing how each group's skin feels, the researchers aim to understand which routine offers the best balance for comfort, quality of life, and symptom control.
Key takeaways
- Tests whether washing 1–2 times a week or 6+ times a week is better for eczema.
- Completely home-based and open to adults and children aged 1 and older across the UK.
- Runs for four weeks, with quick weekly questionnaires sent by email or text.
- You continue using your usual eczema creams and moisturisers throughout.
- Participation is voluntary, and you can withdraw at any time.
Who may be eligible?
This study is open to anyone aged one year or older living in the UK who has eczema. Because the study is designed for everyday life, people from all backgrounds are warmly encouraged to join. Children under 16 can take part with permission from a parent or legal guardian.
To make sure the study gives clear results, some people will not be able to take part. You cannot join if your eczema is completely clear or very mild, or if you only have a rash on your hands, around your veins, or where nickel jewellery touches your skin. You also cannot take part if another person in your household is already in the study.
Finally, you should not take part if you have started a new medicated skin treatment or antibiotics for your eczema in the last four weeks (regular moisturisers are completely fine), if you plan to swim more than twice a week, or if you feel unable to change how often you bathe for four weeks.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- I (or my child) am at least 1 year old and live in the UK.
- I have been diagnosed with or regularly experience eczema.
- My eczema symptoms are currently more than very mild.
- I have not started a new medicated skin treatment in the past 4 weeks (regular moisturisers are fine).
- I am happy to try washing either 1–2 times a week or 6+ times a week for 4 weeks.
- I do not plan to swim more than twice a week during the next month.
What does participation involve?
Taking part in the study is simple and does not require any hospital visits or travel. Everything is done from the comfort of your home. First, you sign up on the study website and answer a few questions about your eczema and your current washing habits. A secure computer system will then place you into one of two groups: washing once or twice a week, or washing six or more times a week.
You follow your assigned routine for four weeks. For this study, "washing" means having a bath or a shower. You do not need to change your usual moisturisers or prescribed creams—you should keep using them as you normally would. Each week, you will receive a short set of questions by text message or email to see how your skin is doing. Once the four weeks are finished, your participation is complete.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- All recruitment will take place online via the Rapid Eczema Trials websiteCity only-, England
Common questions
Does bathing mean having a bath or a shower?
For this study, bathing includes either taking a bath or having a shower.
Can I still use my normal creams and moisturisers?
Yes. You should continue using your usual moisturisers and eczema treatments as recommended by your doctor.
Do I have to visit a clinic or hospital?
No. The entire study is run online, meaning you can take part from home anywhere in the UK.
What happens if my skin gets worse?
You can use your usual eczema treatments to manage your symptoms. If you ever feel uncomfortable, you can stop following the routine at any point.
Can my child join the study?
Yes, children aged one year and older can join as long as a parent or legal guardian gives consent and helps with the weekly questions.
How to find out more
Eleanor Harrison
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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