Millions of people around the globe have found they have something in common: eczema. Eczema is a skin condition that leaves people with irritated skin. So many people wonder if anything can be done to combat it, and the good news is that there are solutions. Continue reading the following article to learn more about taking control of your skin.
One key factor in controlling eczema is to daily practice good skin care. When washing your skin, it's best to use a soap substitute or a mild soap. These cleansing agents are less likely to dry out your skin. Immediately after bathing, always apply a good moisturizer. Moisturizers help conserve your skin's natural moisture.
Avoid scratching your skin in areas that have eczema. This will only aid in making the skin itchier and will increase the inflammation. It could also cause infection. If you need to calm the itch, try applying a cooling gel or moisturizer. Make sure fingernails are clipped short, as well.
If you have allergies, being exposed to what you are allergic to may make your eczema worse. Eczema is not an allergy, but some common allergens that could trigger eczema are dairy products, eggs, wheat and tomatoes. Other things that could make your eczema flare up are pet dander, pollen, dust and mold.
There are several medications you can try to help relieve the itching of eczema. Topical treatments including calamine lotion, which helps soothe the itching. Another topical option is an over-the-counter cream that contains one percent hydrocortisone. For severe itching, consider an oral over-the-counter antihistamine, such as Benadryl. Follow the instructions on the package, and remember that antihistamines may cause drowsiness.
Experiment with suntan lotions to find one that works for you. Certain sunscreens may exacerbate your eczema while others will not. However, what works for one person doesn't necessarily work for another. Keep trying them until you find one you can live with. However, be sure to just test them on a small patch of skin first.
Never scratch at itchy skin. Eczema can be quite itchy and unpleasant. It is important that you avoid the temptation to scratch. Scratching can cause your skin to only itch more. Worse, it could lead to infection. Find other ways to manage your itching. Try using medications or cold compresses.
People that have eczema are prone to skin infections. When the skin is irritated, sometimes its surface cracks and gaps are formed. Germs can envade the skin through these gaps and cause an infection. To reduce this risk, use a mild, non-drying cleanser on your skin to remove dirt, bacteria, and other foreign matter. Gently apply the cleanser with your fingertips and rinse it off with tepid water.
Install humidifiers around your home. These appliances help by releasing steam to moisturize the air. A moist environment is better for eczema than a dry one. This will keep your skin soft to the touch. Keep it clean to make sure you stay healthy.
Help prevent flare-ups of eczema by keeping your skin moisturized. Soft, flexible skin is not likely to have an outbreak. Use unscented moisturizer or petroleum jelly, which contain limited ingredients. There are chemicals and certain fragrances that can aggravate your skin instead of soothing it.
If you have any of the many types of eczema, you should keep your fingernails cut short. Although individuals try to refrain from scratching the patches of dry, itchy skin, sometimes scratching is done as a reflex without conscious though. With shortened nails, it's less likely that the dry, delicate skin will be punctured when you scratch it.
Eczema can be triggered by exposure to hot water. Hot water irritates the skin and can make the symptoms of eczema worsen and lead to dry and cracked skin. Instead of taking hot showers or baths use luke warm water when you bathe. This will clean your skin just as well as hot water but is far gentler on the skin and can prevent eczema flair ups. So, switch to warm water bathing and don't forget to apply moisturizer immediately following your bath.
If you have pets, take measure to keep their dander, dirt and dust from affecting you. That means they should not be in your bed at any time or on your couch. Consider getting their fur clipped to keep it short and to lessen the shedding. Also give them regular baths to keep them as clean as possible.
If you are taking a bath, using bath oil or scented beads that contain oils are a great way to help soothe dry and scratchy skin. Your skin will absorb the moisture from the bath and the oils will help your skin to retain that moisture and protect your skin from drying out.
Avoid too many dairy products if you have eczema. The milk from a cow contains hormones and chemicals that lower the immune system and cause flareups. While having dairy products occasionally is fine, do not go overboard; there are many great, tasty substitutes to many dairy products, like almond milk and goat milk.
Make sure to wear loose fitting clothing at all times. Any sort of friction causes irritation. This damage can cause eczema outbreaks to occur. You want to wear clothing that is loose and comfortable. It can prevent sweaty places, too. These places can lead to eczema.
Avoid washing your hands or bathing too much. It is important that you keep your skin clean. However, too much washing can strip your skin of much needed moisture. This can dry your skin out and cause your eczema to flare up. Bathe as needed and be sure to apply moisturizer afterwards.
As you can see from the information provided here, there are a number of things you can do when it comes to eczema. Many people suffer from eczema silently, but there is no reason that you need to live that way. Use the tips provided here to get the peace of mind and great skin that you want.
Orignal From: Living With Eczema - Tips To Help You Cope
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