National Eczema Week, starting on Sunday, September 13, 2026, highlights the prevalence and impact of this chronic skin condition. With an estimated 35 million people affected in the U.S. alone, this week aims to educate the public and foster support. Learn more about eczema, its symptoms, and how you can get involved in awareness efforts.
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Expected National Eczema Week Deals
During National Eczema Week, the focus shifts from commercial deals to crucial awareness and fundraising initiatives. Organizations like the National Eczema Association often partner with skincare brands such as Aveeno, CeraVe, and La Roche-Posay to run donation match programs or special campaigns where a portion of sales supports research. Expect pharmaceutical companies like Sanofi and Regeneron, which produce treatments, to amplify educational content and patient resources. Look for local pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens to highlight eczema-friendly products and offer informational brochures. Many dermatologists and clinics may host free screenings or educational webinars. We encourage you to visit the official websites of major eczema organizations for verified ways to contribute and participate.
Platform Guide for National Eczema Week
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalEczemaWeek. Share educational infographics, personal stories (with consent), or tips for managing eczema.
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Mention @NatlToday and use #NationalEczemaWeek. Join conversations about eczema research, policy, and patient advocacy, sharing reliable news and resources.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalEczemaWeek. Create or join community groups to share support, coping strategies, and local event information.
National Eczema Week Hero
Dr. Thomas B. Fitzpatrick
History of National Eczema Week
To start, we need to introduce what exactly this disease is. Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is a skin disease that stems from inflammation of the skin. Eczema is characterized by red patches, flaky skin, and intense itch, and it’s commonly seen on children. While most end up healed in the long run, it can severely affect parts of their population, taking a hit on their overall well-being. The exact cause of the disease in itself is unknown, but it’s known to be triggered by many factors, ranging from stress to allergies, and can affect all kinds of people, regardless of age, race or gender.
As a disease that affects an enormous part of the population, it wasn’t long before a group of people wanted to educate and show support to these individuals. And that leads us to December 1988, when Jon M. Hanifin, a dermatologist; Irene Crosby, an eczema sufferer; and Susan Tofte, a research nurse, came together to provide support and education for people living with eczema, drawing parallels to the level of support and organizations that psoriasis was having, and as such, the National Eczema Association, NEA, was born.
At first, the group started with periodic small meetings at the Oregon Health and Science University library in Portland, but it quickly grew to much more, with activities ranging from research grants, to grassroots awareness campaigns and educational events, like the Eczema Expo. NEA eventually moved down to California, where it remains determined to better the lives of people with eczema to this day.
National Eczema Week timeline
The National Eczema Association was created in Portland, Oregon
The common treatment for eczema, hydrocortisone, was invented.
Dermatitis, a.k.a .eczema, became an official term.
Hippocrates speaks of a skin condition that is similar to eczema.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Eczema Week
Local businesses can show support for National Eczema Week by raising awareness and offering relevant services. Pharmacies and beauty supply stores can create displays of eczema-friendly products, offering discounts or educational materials. Dermatologist offices can host free informational sessions or offer consultations for new patients. Wellness centers might promote stress-reduction techniques, which can help manage eczema flare-ups. Restaurants could feature healthy, anti-inflammatory menu options, sharing information about how diet can impact skin health. Consider partnering with a local eczema support group for a joint event or fundraiser.
National Eczema Week FAQs
When is National Eczema Week?
National Eczema Week 2026 runs from Sunday, September 13, through Saturday, September 19, highlighting the significant impact of this common skin condition.
How many people are affected by eczema?
It is estimated that approximately 35 million people in the U.S. alone deal with eczema, representing around 10 percent of the country’s population. Globally, the numbers are even higher, affecting millions across all age groups.
What is the economic impact of eczema?
The economic burden of eczema is substantial, encompassing direct medical costs, prescription medications, over-the-counter treatments, and indirect costs like lost productivity and reduced quality of life. Studies estimate annual costs in the billions of dollars in the U.S. alone.
What causes eczema flare-ups?
Eczema flare-ups are often triggered by a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors. Common triggers include irritants (soaps, detergents), allergens (pollen, pet dander), stress, certain foods, and changes in weather or humidity.
How to Observe National Eczema Week
Donate to the National Eczema Association
The National Eczema Association (NEA) can always use more help. Go to their website and follow steps to give your part in aiding their cause.
Learn About Eczema
Check with local agencies to see if there is a short course you can take to help you become more knowledgeable, as well as looking over articles, documentaries and studies about the topic.
Check in with someone you know who suffers from eczema
Since eczema has been linked to mental distress, make it a point to check in with a friend or family member who suffers from eczema. Keep it as simple as a quick phone call, email, or lunch date.
5 Facts About Skin
It’s the largest organ in the body
Skin accounts for up to one-fifth of your body’s weight.
Around nine pounds yearly
Is the amount of dead skin cells a person can shed on average, up to 40,000 cells every minute.
There are billions of microorganisms
You have more microscopic organisms on your skin than there are people on the planet.
28 days
Is the timespan that your skin needs to completely regenerate itself.
It’s composed of three main parts
They are called the epidermis, the dermis, and the hypodermis.
Why National Eczema Week is Important
National Eczema Week highlights the emotional toll that this condition can take
Most people realize that physically dealing with eczema can be extremely painful and downright annoying. What isn't as widely discussed, however, is how eczema can emotionally affect those afflicted. Eczema can cause serious stress, anxiety, and even depression.
It helps raise money for the National Eczema Association
During National Eczema Week there is definitely heightened awareness regarding the work that the National Eczema Association does. After realizing the many ways that the NEA assists eczema sufferers, donors are more likely to financially support the cause.
National Eczema Week helps eczema sufferers remember that they're not alone
Having eczema can feel isolating. Some people feel embarrassed to go out in public due to the condition of their skin. National Eczema Week serves as an excellent reminder that there are millions of other people who are dealing with this same condition.
Social Media Tips for National Eczema Week
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