Eczema Around Elbows & Knees (Flexural Areas)

For many people living with eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, flare‑ups often appear in the flexural areas – the delicate folds of skin on the inner elbows and behind the knees. These spots are in constant motion, naturally stretching and bending and can be prone to friction from clothing, heat and sweat.

Whether it’s a rash on the inside of the elbow, eczema on the elbow or eczema on the back of the knees, flare-ups can become dry, itchy and inflamed, making even simple activities – like reaching for something or going for a walk – feel uncomfortable.

At Skin Friend, we focus on gentle, science-backed skincare and supplements that support the appearance of healthy, resilient skin – without harsh additives, fragrances, PFAS (forever chemicals) or steroids. 

Why the Elbows and Knees are Prone to Eczema

The skin on flexural areas is thinner, more delicate and naturally prone to movement. Sweat, heat and trapped moisture can irritate the area, while bending and friction can make eczema on the knees and inner elbow more uncomfortable.

When the skin barrier becomes compromised, it’s harder for these areas to retain hydration, making them more vulnerable to flare-ups.

Common Causes and Triggers

While eczema can have many contributing factors, common triggers for eczema on the knees and elbows include:

• Heat, sweat and trapped moisture in skin folds
• Friction from clothing or movement
• Changes in temperature or humidity
• Soaps, detergents or fragranced body products
• Wool or synthetic fabrics that irritate the skin
• Nutritional imbalances or histamine intolerance

Caring for Eczema in Flexural Areas

Because these areas are prone to movement and friction, care should focus on supporting the skin barrier, locking in hydration and avoiding potential irritants.

1. Nourishment from Within

Skin Friend’s eczema supplements and vitamins, like the AM & PM supplements, are all formulated with skin-supportive nutrients like zinc, vitamin C and B vitamins – chosen to maintain skin structure, promote barrier function and support overall skin health.

2. Gentle Topical Support

For daily moisturising and soothing care, our Eczema Relief Cream is a pH-balanced, steroid-free formula that’s gentle enough for the inner elbow and back of the knees. 

With ingredients like zinc oxide and provitamin B5 (dexpanthenol) that protect and support barrier strength, it’s designed to leave your skin feeling soft, calm, and comfortable.

Ingredient Benefits

• Zinc Oxide – Creates a breathable barrier to help protect skin from external irritants.
• Dexpanthenol (ProVitamin B5) – Supports barrier function and helps improve the appearance of redness.
• Optimised pH, 4.6 – Matches healthy skin’s natural pH/acidity to help maintain the skin’s microbiome. 

Eczema Friend – Rash Cream

AM Activated Multi

PM Mineral Matrix

24-Hour Rescue

Wonder Zinc

Eczema Detox Clear Skin Toolkit

How to Use Creams for Eczema on Elbows & Knees

1. Gently cleanse the area with lukewarm water and ideally avoid all wash products and soaps to minimise further irritation.
2. Pat the skin dry and avoid rubbing.
3. Apply a pea-sized amount of Eczema Friend to the affected area, morning and night and after bathing or exercise. 
4. If your eczema also tends to become infected often, also apply Wonder Zinc. You can also use latex-free gloves (like the ones doctors use) to avoid infecting your eczema as hands often contain bacteria that can worsen eczema. 

Prevention Tips

• Wear loose-fitting clothing in breathable fabrics like 100% cotton or bamboo. Avoid synthetic fabrics such as polyester and avoid wool as these can worsen the itch. 
• Avoid fragranced body washes and soaps as they contain the wrong pH which damages the skin barrier and switch to low-irritant cleansers that have a pH below 5 (around 4.5 is perfect).
• Moisturise daily with a gentle cream like Eczema Friend, even when skin appears calm to prevent future flare-ups.
• Stay cool in warm weather and avoid prolonged sweating where possible.
• Support your skin from within with targeted nutrition like Skin Friend AM & PM. PM supports healthy sleeping patterns and nervous system health (great for stress relief), while AM supplies important nutrients for skin and gut health. 

Why Choose Skin Friend

Founded by award-winning author, nutritionist and skin health expert Karen Fischer, Skin Friend combines 24 years of clinical experience with a passion for creating products that are gentle, effective and designed for daily use on rash-prone skin.

Our skincare is free from harsh chemicals, steroids and essential oils, giving your skin the gentle support it needs to look and feel its best. Whether you’re managing eczema on the elbow, inner elbow or on the back of the knees, our approach is all about supporting your skin barrier and pH (acid mantle) to create calm, glowy skin that gets stronger every day.

Learn More About Eczema Care by Body Area

• Eczema Around the Eyes and Eyelids
• Eczema Around Hands and Fingers
• Eczema Around the Face and Scalp
• Eczema Around Skin Folds (Intertrigo Areas)