Eczema is a problem that some people have to take on, but they don’t know where to begin. If you’re someone that’s been dealing with eczema, then you know that there is a lot of information out there about it. Use this as a guide to help you get through the various things in the world of dealing with eczema.
If you seek relief for your dry or itchy skin, focus on creams and ointments as moisturizers. They work better than creams and lotions. You may even just want to use petroleum jelly as a moisturizer. No matter what you use, it should be free of alcohol and fragrance. Apply moisturizer twice each day at least.
Don’t scratch, even though it will be extremely tempting. Eczema can cause a lot of discomfort. Scratching will really set you back during your healing process. This can harm your skin and possibly cause an infection. Make sure to moisturize often and use cold compresses to alleviate pain.
When buying a detergent, look for something that is not scented. If you are having trouble finding one that works for you, look for products labeled “free and clear” and see if they work. In addition, it may be best not to use a fabric softener at all. This product can cause an issue for people with eczema, so it is usually not worth the risk.
Control your indoor temperature. Eczema tends to flare up during shifts in temps or humidity. Use your air conditioner to stay cool in the warmer months. A humidifier can help you keep your skin from drying out during colder weather. Staying comfortable temp wise will help reduce the frequency of flare ups.
Eczema typically causes skin to become dry and itchy. If you want to stay away from itching and dryness, you should apply some moisturizers. Despite what most people think, moisturizers don’t hydrate. In fact, they just lock in your own moisture. By doing this, moisturizers prevent the drying and cracking of skin.
Use an antibiotic ointment on severely cracked skin. This can prevent infections from forming. It also serves as a moisturizer. Do this sparingly though; prolonged use of antibiotic ointments can render them ineffective. If you do have an infection, you should consult your doctor, who may give you an oral antibiotic.
Try to avoid taking hot baths and showers. The extreme temperatures of the water can actually cause eczema flare-ups. The humidity and steam can also dry your skin out, which can make eczema uncomfortable. Try using water that is room temperature any time you shower or take a bath.
Keep your hands protected. These eczema-prone areas are exposed to water and irritating substances like cleaning products. Too much moisture or sweat can trigger symptoms. When you need to submerge them in water, try using rubber gloves. Wearing cotton gloves can also keep hands protected when doing work around the house. Try wearing cotton or leather gloves when doing outside work.
You can now deal with an eczema problem because you have all of this information. It’s not terribly difficult to take on, you just have to be prepared for it all. Take this information and use it to help you get to where you need to be when it comes to dealing with eczema.
