World Atopic Eczema Day 2026

#BreakTheInvisibleBurden

On 14 September 2026, people around the world will come together to mark World Atopic Eczema Day, raising awareness of a condition that affects millions of children and adults globally.

Atopic eczema is often dismissed as “just a skin condition” but, for those living with it, the impact can be far greater than what is visible on the skin. Persistent itching, disrupted sleep, pain, anxiety, low confidence plus the challenges of managing flare-ups can affect every aspect of daily life, including school, work, relationships and overall wellbeing. 

This year, Allergy UK is proud to support the global #BreakTheInvisibleBurden campaign. The campaign aims to raise awareness of the hidden physical, emotional and social burden of atopic eczema, whilst encouraging greater understanding, support and access to appropriate care.

Managing eczema during the summer months

While many people look forward to warmer weather, summer can bring additional challenges for those living with eczema. Heat, sweating, swimming and increased sun exposure can all trigger irritation and flare-ups. To help keep skin comfortable and protected during the warmer months, consider these top five tips: 

Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing

Choose lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made from natural fibres, such as cotton, to help keep cool during the summer. Breathable fabrics can help reduce overheating and irritation to sensitive eczema-prone skin. 

Keep eczema creams in the fridge

Higher temperatures can affect the consistency of eczema creams, making them thicker or runnier. Storing creams in the fridge can provide a cooling, soothing treatment for hot, irritated skin and may help ease discomfort during flare-ups. 

Apply an emollient before sunscreen

Before applying a mineral-based sunscreen, use an emollient cream and allow sufficient time for it to be fully absorbed. This helps hydrate the skin and may improve tolerance to sunscreen in people with very sensitive eczema-prone skin. 

Shower after swimming

Whether swimming in a pool or the sea, it is important to shower afterwards to rinse away chlorine, salt and other potential irritants. Follow this by applying an emollient from head to toe to help rehydrate the skin and support repair of the skin barrier. 

Rinse away sweat and reapply emollient

If you become warm and begin to perspire, try to rinse sweat from the skin as soon as possible. Reapplying an emollient afterwards can help prevent further irritation and keep sensitive eczema-prone skin moisturised.  

How you can get involved

  • Share your story on social media using #BreakTheInvisibleBurden. 
  • Help raise awareness of the emotional and psychological impact of eczema. 
  • Encourage friends, family, employers and healthcare professionals to learn more about the condition. 
  • Explore Allergy UK’s information and support resources: 

With approximately 1 in 5 children in the UK affected by eczema, increased awareness and understanding can make a real difference to those living with the condition and their families.  

Together, we can help make the invisible burden of atopic eczema visible and support better outcomes for everyone affected.