Many people suffer from eczema. They have patches of dry, itchy skin. They are bright red on a lighter skin tone. These spots appear all over the body and scratching makes it worse. Adults and children can suffer from these skin problems. Even small babies can get eczema. It is not known what causes it or how it can be cured. But there is good news. You can treat eczema so that it is almost dormant. Here are some of the best ways to deal with eczema.
1. Change your detergent
Allergic reactions can cause an eczema flare-up. Some detergents and fabric softeners can make your skin problems worse. Switch to laundry products that are gentle on sensitive skin. Avoid anything with perfumes and dyes. Using a different detergent is one of the easiest ways to deal with eczema and it's a good start.
2. Take allergy medication
To avoid allergy triggers for eczema, you should take some allergy medication. For example, Benadryl can relieve the itching. Talk to your doctor about the best medications for you. Read the directions before taking the pills. Be careful when driving or operating heavy machinery.
3. Do not sleep under thick blankets
Sweat and heat can cause eczema. It is fine to sleep under thick duvets in winter. But in the summer, sleep in lighter nightwear and stash your thicker blankets. Let your bed breathe once a week to allow the sweat and dirt to escape. Also wash your sheets once a week to kill dust mites and reduce flare-ups.
4. Do not take long hot showers
We all love hot showers. But the heat of the water can dry out your skin and make your eczema worse. Lower the temperature to lukewarm or cool. Limit your shower time to five or ten minutes. Do the same if you like to take a bath. As with your detergent, use soap that is gentle on sensitive skin.
5. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Dry skin is the enemy of eczema. Use lotion every day. Go for products that contain a lot of moisture. Avoid anything with perfume and dyes that can cause a flare-up. The same goes for soap. In severe cases, talk to your doctor about prescribing a steroid cream to attenuate your flare-ups.
6. Avoid stress
Like any other health problem in life, stress is an enemy of all eczema sufferers. The worst kind of stress can make you look like you have the plague. Try to locate the stressor and eliminate it as quickly as possible. Try to relax and take a deep breath. Take breaks and look for ways to relax every day.
7. Eat well and get enough sleep
Eating right, light activity, and getting the right amount of sleep will help relieve your eczema. These may be small changes in your daily life, but they can work wonders for your skin overall. It's hard to do the right thing, but putting in the effort makes life even better in the long run.
