Dermatitis (eczema) is a very common skin disorder that affects many people. If you’re trying to keep flare ups under control and successfully treat your eczema, make sure you understand these helpful tips:
You don’t need to wash every day. When you take a shower or bath, limit your time as much as possible. If you want to take a longer shower, don’t stand directly under the water. Bathing less often is always okay.
Apply moisturizer when your skin is wet. By doing this, it will lock in moisture and protect your skin. It is recommended that you apply a thick layer of moisturizer within three minutes of bathing.
Oolong tea may help. The anti-allergenic properties of this tea can help relieve irritation and soothe your eczema.
Keep your nails short. This way, you can’t scratch as much and will prevent further damage that long, sharp nails may cause to your skin.
Distract yourself from scratching. When you have the urge to scratch, try to occupy yourself with something else that is done with your hands. The urge will decrease if you can distract yourself.
Drink more water. Aim to drink eight glasses of water each day to prevent irritation. And if you are active, make sure you are drinking even more.
Avoid sugars. These pro-inflammatory foods should be avoided if you’re trying to clear up your eczema.
Coconut oil is great. You can find this at most grocery stores. Coconut oil contains an antimicrobial compound that helps heal skin lesions by clearing out bacteria. Look for extra virgin coconut oil and make sure no additives are included in the ingredients.
Avoid fragranced products. Cosmetic products containing alcohol, perfumes or preservatives tend to cause more eczema flare ups. Carefully check labels and look for “fragrance-free”.
Don’t overheat your skin. As tempting as a hot, steamy shower is, you should resist this if you have a flare up. Only use warm water and be gentle on your skin when you bathe.
Baths can help. Use lukewarm water and soak for 10 to 15 minutes. This helps give your skin the moisture it needs and replaces any moisture that has been lost during the day.
Use a humidifier. This helps to manage moisture levels in the room, helping your skin retain the moisture it needs.
Look for products with colloidal oatmeal. This ingredient can also be added to bath water to soothe your eczema. Colloidal oatmeal helps keep irritants out and moisture in by creating a barrier.
Moisturize twice a day. Do this especially after bathing. A common trigger for eczema is bathing without subsequent moisturizing, so always be sure to lather up after a shower.
Eczema therapy lotion can help keep your eczema under control. These formulas replace key components absent in your skin when you are suffering from a breakout.
Use an exfoliator that doesn’t make your skin worse. You can fight off flakes without damaging your moisture barrier to help your skin feel even more moisturized. Again, look for a non-irritating, fragrance-free exfoliator.
Keep your moisturizer handy. Stock up on travel size moisturizers and keep them in your purse or pocket. Every time you wash your hands, you can moisturize after.
Protect your hands. Wear gloves when you are doing household chores because certain products can irritate your skin.
Be consistent with your treatments. Although there is no specific cure for eczema, keeping your skin moisturized can help keep flare ups at bay.
Make an appointment with your dermatologist. If your eczema isn’t improving or is worsening, schedule an appointment today.