Eczema can be one of the most uncomfortable conditions to deal with. Although it is not usually painful, it can be quite distressing. But help is on the way with the tips below. Continue reading to find ways to soothe that itch and reduce the appearance of those unattractive patches of scaly dry skin.
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.
Those who have eczema should not use a washcloth or body sponge when they are taking a bath or a shower. If you wash your body with such rough-surfaced items, the friction will irritate your skin. Skin irritation can lead to a flare-up of your eczema. To clean your body, simply use your hands to lather up.
Dust can cause issues. Rather than dry dusting, use a damp dust method instead. This will help capture the dust, rather than simply spreading it around the home. Also, because rugs and carpets are a beacon for dust, try not to have them in the house if at all possible.
If your baby has eczema, bathe him or her every day. This will help to keep the skin moisturized and free from infection. Besides hydrating your baby’s skin to help keep flare-ups at bay, baths can be fun for babies, and you can use them as an opportunity to further bond with yours.
Take a warm bath to relieve eczema-related itching. However, it must be warm and not hot or cold. Put oatmeal on the surface of your skin. You can also try half a cup of bleach in a forty gallon bath. This can be helpful in eliminating bacteria that affects the skin.
For those that have eczema, skin care must be modified in the cold, dry winter months. During these months, you should use an oil-based moisturizer. The oil in these moisturizers promote moisture retention. The best form of moisturizer to use in these circumstances is an ointment due to the amount of oil it contains. Since ointments are 80% oil, it protects the skin more effectively than either lotions or creams.
If your doctor has approved over-the-counter ointments for your eczema, make sure you get the right kinds. You should be looking at products that are only 20% water and 80% oil. While they may feel greasier, they will lock moisture in your skin better. Try not to use these products in areas that get sweaty.
As any eczema sufferer knows, eczema can greatly affect your enjoyment of life. The itchiness can be unrelenting while the appearance of it can make you feel extremely self-conscious in social situations, especially those that call for wearing short sleeves or shorts. So start using the tips from above and you will soon find that you eczema no longer controls you or your social life.
