If you have eczema, you know how hindering it can be. It can erode self-confidence in even the most confident of folks. However, you don’t have to let yourself become victim to this unwanted malady. The following tips will help you live with and treat eczema and its annoying flare-ups.
Some individuals that have a severe case of eczema find relief by taking their baths in water which has a small portion of bleach added to it. This helps because the bleach actually kills bacteria which takes up residence on the skin of those who are plagued with eczema. Of course, don’t take a long bath or use really hot water because both can rob your skin of its 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 eczema, rubbing your skin with a towel to get it dry may aggravate your eczema and lead to a flare-up. Rubbing produces friction which can irritate sensitive skin areas. It also removes your body’s naturals oils. When drying you body after bathing, use a towel to pat your skin until it’s partially dry. While your skin is still a bit damp, apply a moisturizer to lock in the bath’s moisture.
There are several things you can do to keep yourself from scratching your eczema. The best thing to do is keep it covered. Loose clothing may work, or try bandages or dressings on the afflicted area. Keep your fingernails trimmed short, and consider wearing gloves when you go to bed to avoid scratching while you are sleeping.
Keep your hands protected. Wear rubber gloves while washing dishes or performing another activity in which your hands are submersed in water. For further protection, wear cotton gloves underneath the rubber ones to reduce sweat and irritation. Use the cotton gloves while performing other activities, such as gardening and housework.
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.
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.
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.
Find out what exactly triggers an eczema flare up. For a number of people, dust mites are what make flare ups happen. Other people find that scented soaps are problematic. Knowing what causes eczema can help you prevent it. You might need to adjust your lifestyle somewhat, but that can lead to real eczema relief.
If you dust, use a cloth that is dampened with mild cleanser or water. This keeps dust on the cloth. Dry dusting just moves dust into the air. This can affect your breathing and affect all that you touch.
Always wash your bedding, blankets and pillows on a regular basis. Don’t wait until they seem dirty. Do it at least once a week to keep you bed as free from allergens and irritants as possible. Use a gentle detergent and softener that doesn’t contain harsh chemicals or fragrances which can cause irritation to sensitive people.
When you bathe or shower, be sure to avoid extremes. Water that is too hot or too cold will irritate your skin. Hot water tends to leach all the moisture out of skin and may make your symptoms worse. Set the heat of your water at a comfortable, soothing level to avoid drying out your skin.
When you buy new sheets, always wash them first. They may seem clean and fresh but they are likely stiff with starch or other chemicals that can be irritating to your skin. So give them a wash with a gentle detergent and use an unscented softener to reduce the risk of irritation to your skin.
Now that you have come to the end of this article, you know a thing or two about eczema. Use the information you have just read to provide yourself with some relief. Once you’ve gotten a handle on what works for you, you’ll become more confident and enjoy a better quality of life.
Be In Control Of Your Skin With These Eczema Tips was originally published on Spring