Eczema is basically a skin rash that also includes itching, blistering, swelling, or crusting. Since an estimated one in every nine people suffers from some form of eczema in their lives perhaps we should cover some common forms as well as how to treat it.
Atopic eczema is the most common type of eczema, is believed to be hereditary, and occurs commonly in people that also have asthma. This rash typically occurs on the scalp, elbows, knees, and buttocks. Other eczema conditions can occur due to contact dermatitis, for example an allergic reaction or an irritant that makes your skin red and itchy.
Treatments range from prescription steroid treatments, which can come with harsh side effects such as thinning of the skin, to herbal remedies, and being aware of your irritants and triggers.
Here are some tips to remember to help control your eczema:
-Avoid harsh scented soaps. Use an unscented, gentle creamy soap such as the DermCare Cleanser.
-Do not use harsh exfoliants, washcloths and anything that will irritate the skin.
-Use moisturizer to keep the area(s) moistened as dry skin can worsen eczema. The DermCare Lotion and Creams are great, gentle moisturizers to use on eczema that help to not only add needed moisture back into the skin, but to soothe and heal the areas as well.
-If a large part, or several parts, of your body are affected, an oatmeal bath can offer great relief.
-Avoid sudden temperature changes, such as sweating, that can irritate your skin and cause it to redden and inflame.
-Some studies have shown that pollen, dust and mold can aggravate eczema. If you find these are irritating to you – do your best to avoid these.
-Some clothing, such as wool sweaters, can rub on the skin and aggravate any areas that are ready to inflame – wear a cotton or silk shirt under any materials that tend to aggravate you.
Eczema cannot be cured, but following this basic advice and knowing your skin and its triggers can help to keep the redness and inflammation down.