How to navigate salon and spa visits with eczema

Salon or spa visits can come with added stress when you live with eczema, including concerns about skin reactions and discomfort during services. Eczema Society of Canada volunteer ambassador Allie wanted to help other eczema community members navigate salon visits and share her top tips, alongside insights from Toronto-based dermatologist Dr. Marisa Ponzo.

“The first time I had seborrheic eczema on my scalp, it was so itchy and flaky that I avoided scheduling my haircut,” says Allie. “I was worried how the stylist would react and that the products would make my eczema worse. When I finally went, I let the stylist know I had eczema and that I had washed my hair earlier that day. She was so kind and accommodating throughout the appointment.”

“Many of my patients with eczema express their concerns about visiting a salon or spa,” says Toronto dermatologist Dr. Marisa Ponzo. “They often worry if their eczema will flare after the treatment and how they will feel during the appointment. These concerns are completely valid. Fortunately, with the proper preparation, many people with eczema can successfully enjoy salon or spa visits.”

1. Check in with yourself before your appointment.
   Allie suggests asking yourself key questions before booking an appointment. “My eczema is constantly changing, so before booking a salon appointment, I ask myself a few key questions: Where on my body is the eczema right now? Could the treatment aggravate my skin? What would help me stay comfortable (such as avoiding certain products or ingredients)? Is there a better time of month or year to go, especially if my skin tends to flare in the winter?”Dr. Ponzo adds, “Avoid scheduling an appointment during an active flare. Cracked and inflamed skin is more vulnerable to further irritation and possible infection. People with eczema often cannot tolerate certain treatments, like scrubs or facials. Additionally, consider rethinking gel and acrylic nails, either at the salon or with DIY kits at home. Chemicals in acrylic nails, gel nails and gel nail polish can trigger contact dermatitis.”
2. Contact the salon or spa ahead of your appointment
   Before visiting the spa or salon, Allie suggests calling or emailing them with any questions. Ask about the specific products they use, and be sure to let them know you have eczema and mention any known allergens. Ask if they have unscented products or options for sensitive skin. The salon may let you bring your own products, like shampoo and conditioner.You don’t need to skip massage therapy, but planning ahead can be key. Dr. Ponzo says, “Bringing your own massage oil that your skin tolerates can be helpful.”
3. Be open and honest during the appointment
   Don’t assume the information you provided while booking the appointment was shared with the service provider. Allie recommends, “When you meet the stylist or technician, tell them you have eczema, even if you’ve seen them many times. Remember to ask about products for sensitive skin, or mention which products are best for your skin. It’s okay to speak up throughout the appointment and ask for what you need, including taking a break. The stylist or technician wants you to be comfortable and have a good experience.”
4. Reach out for help
   “You’re not alone. Discuss your concerns with your health care provider or dermatologist, and consider talking to your friends or family for support,” says Allie. “When my sister booked our nail appointments before her wedding, I was worried about my hand eczema. She assured me that the salon offered unscented products and could avoid harsh ones. She was right! I communicated with the nail technician and had a great experience.”Finding a salon or spa through recommendations or research that is accommodating, treats you with respect, and offers a pleasant experience will make your visit less stressful and enjoyable.Dr. Ponzo’s final note, “Living with eczema is about managing the condition, and finding solutions that work for you.”

ESC thanks ESC volunteer ambassador Allie for the story idea and for sharing her tips, and Toronto-based dermatologist Dr. Marisa Ponzo for her volunteer contributions to this article. If you or your child is struggling with eczema and needs urgent care, go to your nearest emergency department.

Disclaimer: Information provided in this resource does not constitute medical advice and is not intended to be used as a diagnostic tool. The information is up-to-date at time of publication. All medications, interventions, and treatment plans have risks and benefits, and it is important that individuals discuss their or their child’s specific health care needs with a qualified health care professional. 

May 2026