6 Tips To Help You Overcome Eczema
52% of U.S. citizens use skincare products on a daily basis. From age spot cream to antifungal foot cream and anything in between, there are tons of products in the skincare industry today. In fact, a good number of people rely on creams for eczema itch relief. Itching due to eczema can interfere with sleep and this might force you to rely on a natural sleep aid. Before taking a look at eczema skincare tips, it would be good to first understand what this condition is all about.
Eczema
This is a sensitivity condition involving the environment, immune system, and skin. Eczema results from an immune system overstimulation that causes skin inflammation characterized by itchy and red skin, which can become painful and uncomfortable. Eczema comes in different types ranging from mild to severe, and it can affect numerous body parts. Atopic dermatitis that mostly affects people with allergies is the most common type of eczema.
Although the cause of eczema remains unknown, there are certain elements that act as triggers. Some of these are sweat, hot and humid environments, dry environments, skin friction, and chemical irritants. Fortunately, there are some things you can do when it comes to eczema itch relief. Read on to learn more.
1. Daily Baths
Sure, water can have a skin-drying effect, thus making bathing a step in the wrong direction. However, bathing on a daily basis coupled with effective moisturizer use is prudent. This will help with skin hydration, sealing in moisture, and avoiding irritation. Instead of hot water, warm water is better for showering or bathing, and total bathing time shouldn’t exceed 10 minutes.
2. Moisturize Often
Moisturizing two to three times daily is an ideal way of preventing your skin from becoming extremely dry, thus preventing eczema. Moisturizing immediately after hand washing and bathing is good because the skin will still be damp. Pat your skin gently using a towel and apply a dry skin cream as well as a prescribed eczema itch relief cream. Applying hand and foot cream for dry skin during the night is also wise as this helps retain moisture.
3. Bath Treatment
Depending on the symptoms, adding baking soda, oatmeal, salt, vinegar, bleach, or bath oil can offer inflammation relief. Whereas salt helps with strong flare-ups, a bleach bath will help combat bacteria that cause skin infections. Oatmeal baths and baking soda play a major role in wiping out itching. Talking to a health practitioner will help pinpoint the best option for you.
4. Humidifiers
A humidifier at home, particularly during winter, can help avoid flaking and itching by infusing moisture back into the skin and air. Feel free to use a humidifier that’s attached to the furnace or even the portable type. Cleaning the humidifier every so often is always wise to help prevent fungi and bacteria growth.
5. Refrain from Rubbing or Scratching
Scratching might seem an effective eczema itch relief method, but doing so is wrong because you’ll be rubbing an already compromised skin. If you can’t help but scratch, simply use a bandage or something similar to cover the area. Avoiding itchy, rough, and tight fabrics such as wool also helps prevent scratching. Cotton is a better alternative because it is a fabric that’s not only breathable but also soft. Nail trimming and wearing gloves will also keep scratching at bay during the night.
6. Avoid Harsh Soaps
For anyone prone to eczema, the need to choose proper cleansers cannot be overemphasized. Talking to a skincare expert will help you find the best mild soap that isn’t laced with fragrances and dyes. Avoid antibacterial cleansers because they contain alcohol and other harsh ingredients. Always apply soap gently using hands and then rinse all of it from your skin. Don’t scrub with a washcloth, and in case of a severe flare-up, avoiding soap and using warm water only is wise.
Conclusion
Although eczema comes with lots of discomfort, there are ways that can help keep the itch away. The above tips are a good place to start when it comes to combating eczema. No need to fret in case a given method doesn’t work because there’s always a skincare professional in town willing to help.
