Excessive salt intake can indeed trigger eczema flare-ups, with emerging research revealing a significant link between high sodium diets and increased risk and severity of this common skin condition.

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, affects millions worldwide and is characterized by dry, inflamed, itchy skin that often flares periodically.

Salt and Eczema: The Scientific Connection

Recent large-scale studies involving over 200,000 participants have demonstrated that consuming just one extra gram of sodium daily—equivalent to about half a teaspoon of table salt or the amount found in one fast food burger can elevate the risk of developing or exacerbating eczema by up to 22%.

This is particularly important because many populations routinely exceed recommended sodium levels, often unbeknownst to them, through processed and fast foods. Sodium is stored in the skin, and this accumulation can activate certain immune cells that drive inflammation, breaking down the skin's protective barrier and triggering eczema flare-ups.

How Excess Sodium Aggravates Skin Inflammation

Recent research suggests that excess sodium intake may increase the risk or worsen symptoms of inflammatory skin conditions such as Atopic Dermatitis (eczema). For example, a 2024 study found that each additional gram of sodium consumed daily was associated with higher odds of having eczema or an active flare.

Some scientists propose that sodium can accumulate in the skin — and elevated skin sodium may contribute to immune activation and inflammation, potentially impairing skin‑barrier integrity.

While this evidence does not prove that salt definitively “causes” eczema or skin flare‑ups in all individuals, reducing excessive dietary sodium may be a sensible, low-risk strategy — especially for people prone to skin irritation. Including careful salt intake in an overall skin‑friendly diet could help minimize inflammation and lower the likelihood of skin discomfort.

Eczema sufferers often experience flare-ups characterized by red, scaly patches and intense discomfort. Chronic inflammation from excessive sodium can escalate these symptoms, affecting quality of life and increasing the difficulty of managing the condition.

Managing Sodium Intake to Improve Skin Outcomes

Given the evidence linking high salt consumption with eczema, controlling sodium intake emerges as a practical and effective strategy to reduce flare frequency and severity. Health authorities generally recommend limiting sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams per day, roughly one teaspoon of salt, but many consume significantly more.

Cutting back on processed foods, fast foods, and snacks high in sodium is essential. Hydration also plays a key role, as adequate water intake helps flush excess sodium from the body and maintains skin moisture balance.

Incorporating potassium-rich foods such as bananas, spinach, and avocados can help counterbalance sodium levels, reducing water retention and associated puffiness while supporting skin health. Additionally, moisturizing routines that include products with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides help restore the skin’s moisture barrier, which is often compromised in eczema.

Dr. Katrina Abuabara notes that many Americans consume more salt than recommended — and suggests that reducing sodium intake could be a simple, affordable way to help manage eczema flare‑ups naturally.

Limiting salt consumption is a promising, accessible strategy to lessen eczema severity and improve skin health. By reducing processed and salty foods, staying well-hydrated, balancing electrolytes with potassium-rich foods, and maintaining a strong moisturizing regimen, individuals affected by eczema can better manage their condition and enhance their quality of life.