If your dermatologist recommends bleach baths for eczema, follow these important steps:

  1. Use regular strength – 6 percent – bleach for the bath. Do not use concentrated bleach.
  2. Use a measuring cup or measuring spoon to add the bleach to the bath. Adding too much bleach to the bath can the skin. Adding too little bleach may not help.
  3. Measure the amount of bleach before adding it to the bath water. For a full bathtub of water, use a half cup of bleach. For a half-full tub of water, add a quarter cup of bleach. For a baby or toddler bathtub, add one teaspoon of bleach per gallon of water.
  4. Never apply bleach directly to eczema. While the tub is filling, pour the bleach into the water. Be sure to wait until the bath is fully drawn and bleach is poured before entering the tub.
  5. Talk with your dermatologist about how long you should soak in the tub. Most dermatologists recommend a five- to 10-minute soak.
  6. Pat skin dry after the bath. If prescribed eczema medication, apply it immediately after the bath. Then moisturize skin.

Adding a teaspoon of bleach to a water bottle sprayer and spraying your body before taking a shower is another alternative to soaking in a bleach bath.

Talk with a board-certified dermatologist before beginning bleach bath therapy.

If you have questions or concerns about caring for eczema, you should make an appointment to see a dermatologist.