Facts and Myths

There are a lot of misunderstandings about eczema. Why not take our "true or false" quiz to see how much you know about this skin condition?

A quiz to set the record straight!

Are the following statements true or false? Please click on your answer to see if you're correct.

Eczema is contagious

Answer: False.

You can't catch eczema or give it to other people. Most people have it because it is hereditary and runs in their families.

Eczema is caused by "nerves"

Answer: False.

Eczema is not directly caused by emotional issues or conditions. However, if you are prone to eczema, too much stress in your life can trigger an eczema flare-up.

Children can outgrow eczema

Answer: True.

Many babies with eczema improve by age 2. About 4 out of 10 children outgrow the condition by the time they are young adults. Unfortunately, there is no way to know which children will outgrow it. Symptoms can also come back later in life. Don't wait to seek medical help for your child. Controlling eczema now may stop it from getting worse.

Eczema cannot be cured

Answer: True.

Not yet, anyway. However, while eczema symptoms can be difficult and uncomfortable, the disease can be successfully managed. People with eczema can live healthy and productive lives. Talk to your doctor about developing a management plan to help control your eczema.

Steroid medicines applied to the skin are not safe

Answer: False.

Doctors prescribe topical steroids—those applied directly on the skin—more than any other medicine to reduce the signs and symptoms of eczema. They are considered safe if they are taken as prescribed. Some are more patient-friendly than others.

People with eczema should not use soap or moisturizers on their skin

Answer: False.

Your doctor can determine the best skin care routine for you or your child. Generally, people with eczema can bathe regularly with a mild soap or skin cleanser if they:

  • Use warm, not hot, water
  • Avoid scrubbing
  • Apply moisturizer to the skin while it is still damp.

Keeping skin moisturized is very important.

Important Selected Product Safety Information

Do not use CUTIVATE® LOTION if you have hypersensitivity to any ingredient of this product or with formaldehyde. This medication is for external use only. Avoid contact with the eyes. CUTIVATE® LOTION should not be used on the face, underarms, or groin areas unless prescribed by your physician. The treated skin area should not be bandaged or otherwise covered or wrapped unless directed by the physician. The safety and efficacy in pediatric patients below 1 year of age have not been established. The safety of the use of CUTIVATE® LOTION for longer than 4 weeks has not been established.

Absorption of topical corticosteroids through the skin has produced various hormonal abnormalities, increased blood sugar, and sugar in the urine in some patients. CUTIVATE® LOTION may cause local skin reactions such as irritation, inflammation of hair follicles, acne-like skin disorder and loss of skin color.

Side effects of topical steroids in children may include toxicity with weight gain and growth, headaches, problems with vision, bulging soft spots on a baby's head, and stretch marks. You should not use this product to treat your child’s diaper dermatitis unless instructed by the physician.

If you are pregnant or nursing a baby, consult with physician prior to using this product.

For more information, consult your healthcare professional. Please see link to Full Prescribing Information below.

CUTIVATE® (fluticasone propionate) LOTION Full Prescribing Information