Eczema, Gut Health, and Misinformation

Misinformed Miracles

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the connection between gut health and skin conditions like eczema. Eczema Support Australia has experienced quite an increase in direct enquiries as well as comments on our closed Facebook support groups, relating to confusion in relation to the connection between gut health and eczema – which can be quite complex. While it’s encouraging to see more conversations about whole-body wellbeing, it’s also important to approach these discussions with caution.

At Eczema Support Australia, we believe in empowering people affected by eczema through reliable, balanced, and science-backed information. Let’s unpack some of the common misinformation circulating online and explore what really helps manage eczema.

Misinformation: “Fix the root cause.” 

The idea of a single “root cause” of eczema is misleading. Eczema is a complex, multifactorial chronic condition. It’s influenced by a combination of genetic, immune, environmental, and skin barrier factors—not just one internal issue that can be “fixed.”

Suggesting that eczema can be “cured” by targeting a singular cause often leads people down expensive, ineffective, and sometimes harmful paths. This framing oversimplifies a complex medical condition and can leave people feeling frustrated when “natural” remedies or lifestyle changes don’t deliver the miracle results that were promised.

 Misinformation: “The Skin Purges Toxins During a Flare.”

A misleading phrase. While it’s true that the skin plays a role in processes like temperature regulation and sweating, it is not a primary organ of detoxification. That role belongs to the liver, kidneys, and digestive system.

There is no strong clinical evidence to support the idea that eczema is caused by the body trying to eliminate toxins through the skin. Eczema is a complex inflammatory condition linked to genetics, immune system responses, environmental factors, and skin barrier dysfunction—not toxin build-up. Suggesting otherwise may oversimplify the condition and unintentionally lead people away from effective, evidence-based care.

Misinformation: “Gut health cures eczema”

Gut health is important to overall wellbeing, and emerging research is exploring the microbiome’s role in many health conditions—including eczema. However,research is still in the early stages of understanding this complex relationship.

The gut-skin axis is real, but it’s not a cure.

Warning: Commercialised Advice 

It’s important to scrutinise the source of information. Increasingly, people labelled as “wellness experts” are building platforms to promote their own products or services—often without relevant qualifications or evidence to support their claims.

While lived experience is valuable, expertise in managing chronic skin conditions like eczema should come from trained health professionals including qualified dermatologists, allergists/immunologists, Paediatricians and GPs.

Current research does not support making gut health the cornerstone of eczema management. People with eczema deserve realistic, evidence-based treatment plans—not sweeping generalisations or products promoted under the guise of gut health.

What You Can Trust 

At Eczema Support Australia, we collaborate with Australia’s leading dermatologists, researchers, and trusted health organisations. Our resources—like the Eczema Care Online Toolkit and factsheets on eczema management—are built to help you make informed decisions based on the latest clinical guidance.

For most people with eczema, effective management includes:

• Daily use of emollients (moisturisers) to repair the skin barrier

• Using flare control treatments, such as topical corticosteroids, when and as prescribed

• Identifying and avoiding known triggers

• Building a supportive relationship with a health professional who listens and works with you on a personalised care plan

• Finding a supportive and understanding community, such as Eczema Support Australia which provides in multiple ways, ( e.g. peer support webinars, closed Facebook groups, free psychology sessions, and one-on-one support), as and when needed.

There is no quick fix—but there is hope, and there are options that work.

Hope should never come at the cost of truth

We understand the appeal of alternative explanations—especially when you or your child are struggling with constant itch, sleepless nights, or painful skin.

Before trying new creams, supplements, or wellness programs, always ask:

• Is this evidence-based?

• Is the person offering this qualified to do so? Would you have a dentist repair your car, or have a mechanic repair your teeth?

• What do trusted organisations and specialists say?

We’re here to help you navigate the noise and find credible, compassionate support. If you have questions or concerns about what you’re seeing online, please reach out. You’re not alone—and you don’t need to walk this journey in confusion or fear.

** Information in this article has been reviewed and approved by The Australasian College of Dermatologists.