How Different Drinks Affect Eczema – What to Know Before You Sip

If you’re living with eczema, you already know that what goes into your body is just as important as what goes on your skin. But have you ever thought about how the drinks you consume might be impacting your eczema?

From fizzy drinks to herbal teas, different beverages can either help soothe your skin or make symptoms worse. Here's a breakdown of how different drinks affect eczema and what you might want to watch out for.

Alcoholic Drinks

Alcohol is one of the most common drink-related eczema triggers. It can:

Dehydrate the skin, making it dry and itchy
Increase inflammation, especially if you already have a flare-up
Trigger histamine responses, especially in drinks like red wine or beer
Disrupt sleep, which is a key factor in eczema flare-ups

Tip: If you're going to drink, stay hydrated with water and consider clear spirits like vodka or gin, which may be less likely to cause a reaction than beer or wine.

Sugary & Fizzy Drinks

Drinks like cola, energy drinks, and sweetened juices can be bad news for eczema-prone skin. High levels of refined sugar can:

Increase inflammation in the body
Disrupt gut health, which is linked to eczema
Spike insulin levels, possibly triggering immune responses

Tip: Cut down on sugary drinks and look for natural options with no added sugar.

Coffee & Caffeinated Drinks

Caffeine can be a tricky one. While it doesn't affect everyone, it may:

Dehydrate your body, which leads to dry skin
Affect sleep, increasing the risk of flare-ups
Trigger stress hormones like cortisol, which can worsen eczema

Tip: Limit caffeine to earlier in the day and balance each cup with extra water.

Dairy-Based Drinks

Some people with eczema find that milk and dairy can trigger their symptoms, especially if they have a dairy allergy or sensitivity. Dairy may:

Contribute to inflammation
Worsen skin conditions in sensitive individuals

Tip: Try plant-based alternatives like oat, almond, or rice milk—but watch out for added sugars or preservatives.

Herbal Teas

Now for the good news—some drinks can actually help eczema! Herbal teas like:

Chamomile – known for calming inflammation
Rooibos – antioxidant-rich and naturally caffeine-free
Nettle tea – may help reduce histamine reactions

These can support your immune system, calm the skin, and promote better sleep.

Tip: Always check for allergies and avoid any teas with added flavourings or ingredients you don't recognise.

Water (The Best Drink for Eczema)

It might sound boring, but water is your best friend when managing eczema. Staying well-hydrated:

Keeps your skin moist from the inside
Supports the natural healing process
Helps flush out toxins that could trigger inflammation

Tip: Aim for 6–8 glasses a day—and even more in hot weather or if you’re drinking alcohol or caffeine.

Final Thoughts

What you drink has a direct impact on your skin. If you’re struggling with eczema, consider keeping a drink diary to track how your body reacts to different beverages.

At Eczema Eaze, we believe in simple, practical changes that can lead to calmer, clearer skin. Swap out irritants, stay hydrated, and choose skin-friendly drinks whenever possible—you might be surprised how much of a difference it makes.