Drinks & Eczema
What's Good and What Should You Avoid?
Can what you drink affect your eczema? Discover which drinks support healthy skin, which drinks are best enjoyed in moderation and whether certain ingredients could be contributing to your flare-ups.
Good Drinks for Eczema
1. Water
Why? Keeps your body hydrated and supports normal skin function. Drinking extra water won't cure eczema, but staying hydrated is important.
2. Milk
Why? Provides calcium, protein and vitamins that support general health. Suitable for most people unless they have a milk allergy.
3. Unsweetened Plant-Based Milk
Why? Fortified alternatives can provide useful nutrients for people avoiding dairy. Check for calcium and other added vitamins.
4. Herbal Tea
Why? Many herbal teas are naturally caffeine-free, making them a relaxing alternative to coffee before bed.
5. Plain Sparkling Water
Why? Keeps you hydrated without added sugar. A good alternative to sugary fizzy drinks.
6. Water with Fresh Fruit
Why? Adds flavour without needing lots of sugar. Try cucumber, strawberries or mint.
7. Plain Kefir
Why? Contains live cultures that may support gut health. However, it hasn't been proven to treat eczema.
Eczema Eaze Tip: Water is the best everyday choice. Aim for a healthy, balanced diet rather than relying on particular drinks to improve eczema.
Drinks to Limit or Watch
1. Sugary Fizzy Drinks
Why? Often contain large amounts of added sugar, which isn't good for overall health. Sugar hasn't been proven to directly cause eczema flare-ups.
2. Energy Drinks
Why? Often contain high levels of caffeine and sugar. Caffeine can disrupt sleep, which may already be difficult for people with eczema.
3. Alcohol
Why? Can contribute to dehydration and poor sleep. Some people also report increased redness or itching after drinking alcohol.
4. Sugary Milkshakes
Why? Can contain large amounts of added sugar. Dairy may also cause allergic reactions in people with a confirmed milk allergy.
5. Excessive Coffee
Why? Too much caffeine can make sleeping difficult, especially if itching already keeps you awake at night.
6. Large Amounts of Fruit Juice
Why? Fruit juice contains free sugars, while acidic juices may irritate sore skin around the mouth.
7. Highly Sweetened Squash
Why? Some varieties contain large amounts of added sugar.
Choosing no-added-sugar alternatives can reduce sugar intake.
Eczema Eaze Tip: These drinks aren't necessarily eczema triggers for everyone. Focus on moderation and pay attention to your personal reactions.
Final Thoughts: Finding What Works for Your Skin
When it comes to eczema, it's easy to wonder whether something you're drinking could be causing your flare-ups.
However, there is no single drink that works for everyone.
Water remains the best everyday choice for hydration, while milk, unsweetened alternatives and other drinks can form part of a balanced diet.
Sugary drinks, excessive caffeine and alcohol are worth limiting for general health, but that doesn't mean they automatically cause eczema.
The most important thing is to understand your personal triggers, stay hydrated and follow a skincare routine that works for you.
References & Further Reading
1. NHS – Water, Drinks and Hydration
Guidance on healthy drink choices, daily fluid intake, sugary drinks and fruit juice.
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/food-guidelines-and-food-labels/water-drinks-nutrition/
2. NHS – Drinks and Cups for Babies and Young Children
Age-appropriate advice about milk, water, fruit juice, fizzy drinks and other beverages.
https://www.nhs.uk/baby/weaning-and-feeding/drinks-and-cups-for-babies-and-young-children/
3. National Eczema Society – Diet and Eczema
Information about nutrition, probiotics, food allergies and the limits of dietary treatments for eczema.
https://www.eczema.org.uk/support/diet-and-eczema
4. American Academy of Dermatology – Can Food Fix Eczema?
Research-based guidance explaining why diet changes alone rarely control eczema.
https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/eczema/childhood/treating/food-fix
5. British Dietetic Association – Fluid and Hydration
Professional advice about fluid intake and healthier drinks for adults and children.
https://www.bda.uk.com/resource/fluid-water-drinks.html
6. National Eczema Society – Sleep and Eczema
Guidance on sleep problems, including advice about caffeine and alcohol before bedtime.