Benefits

In Singapore, eczema affects a large number of both adults and children. In fact, approximately 80% to 90% of the skin condition cases we treat are eczema. Many patients choose TCM as a complementary approach to conventional treatment, seeking a more comprehensive and holistic way to manage their symptoms.

Key benefits of TCM eczema care include:

  • Supporting spleen health and improving spleen function
  • Clearing and resolving internal “damp-heat”
  • Helping to reduce skin inflammation
  • Suitable for children aged 1 to 2 years old
  • Nourishing the blood and moisturizing the skin to relieve dryness and itching

Eczema and TCM Care

Eczema is a common and recurring inflammatory skin condition, with symptoms that include itching, rashes, dryness, and flaking. In Singapore, the prevalence of eczema is high among both adults and children, with infants and young children being particularly vulnerable.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), eczema is seen as more than just a superficial skin issue—it reflects internal imbalances in qi and blood, organ function, and yin–yang harmony. Eczema is often linked to the functions of the spleen, liver, and kidneys, especially when spleen dysfunction leads to poor fluid transformation, allowing damp-heat to accumulate. Combined with external factors such as wind, dampness, and heat, these imbalances can ultimately result in skin inflammation and persistent itching.

Common TCM Causes of Eczema

Internal Factors:

  • Dampness and Spleen Deficiency – A diet high in oily, spicy, or dairy foods can overburden the spleen, leading to dampness accumulation in the body that manifests on the skin.
  • Yin Deficiency – Insufficient yin fluids cause excess internal heat, depriving the skin of nourishment and resulting in dryness and itching.
  • • Excess Internal Heat – Frequent consumption of hot-natured or fried foods, as well as emotional stress, can generate excess heat, worsening skin inflammation.

Internal Factors:

  • External Wind – Prolonged exposure to air conditioning or direct wind can compromise the skin barrier.
  • External Dampness – Humid environments or frequent water contact can exacerbate damp-heat reactions in the skin.

Stages of Eczema

1. Acute Eczema –

Sudden onset of papules, blisters, erosion, and oozing, often accompanied by intense itching.

2. Subacute Eczema –

Skin thickening and scaling, with milder but persistent itching.

3. Chronic Eczema –

Noticeable skin thickening, cracks, pigmentation, or lichenification, with stubborn itching that easily recurs.

TCM Treatment Methods

Acupuncture

Acupuncture By stimulating specific acupoints, acupuncture promotes the smooth flow of qi and blood, regulates immune function, relieves itching and inflammation, and supports the skin’s natural healing process.

Herbal Medicine

Internal herbal formulas help regulate spleen and stomach function, clear heat, and dispel dampness. External herbal washes or compresses soothe the skin and relieve discomfort. For acute eczema, treatment focuses on clearing heat and draining dampness; for chronic eczema, emphasis is placed on nourishing the blood and moisturizing the skin.

Daily Management & Skincare Tips

1. Reduce Stress –

Practices such as meditation and yoga can help ease mental tension.

2. Maintain Skin Hydration –

Use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturisers and apply immediately after bathing to lock in moisture.

3. Protect Against External Irritants –

Avoid prolonged exposure to wind or humid environments.

4. Improve Diet –

Reduce intake of high-sugar, hot-natured, oily, and spicy foods; some eczema patients may also need to avoid trigger foods such as seafood, lamb, and beef.

5. Avoid Hot Water –

Opt for warm water when bathing to prevent loss of natural skin oils.

6. Use Gentle Cleansers –

Avoid detergents with fragrance or harsh chemicals.

7. Keep Nails Short and Clean –

Helps prevent scratching that could lead to infection.

The Advantages of TCM in Eczema Care

TCM treatment for eczema not only targets the visible skin symptoms but also focuses on improving the body’s internal environment to address the root cause and reduce recurrence. Through syndrome differentiation, TCM combines acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary guidance, and lifestyle management to relieve symptoms while strengthening the immune system and improving the skin’s barrier function—helping the skin return to a healthy state.