Living with Eczema

When you have eczema and atopic dermatitis, ordinary events take on a new meaning. A swimming invitation causes anxiety about your skin rash or red bumps, and concern over whether the chlorine in the pool will trigger a flare-up in your skin condition. A day in the country means exposure to pollens, which can cause itchy scalp and itchy skin. A shopping expedition entails a search for outfits that flatter and cover your eczema symptoms- and are made of natural, non-irritating fabrics. Although there is no such thing as an eczema cure, there are many eczema treatments that reduce the severity of outbreaks.

The best eczema remedy is not an eczema lotion, an herbal eczema treatment, or a special diet. It is to listen to your body, observe its reactions closely and keep up with information about eczema, so that you can develop a management plan.

Avoid and protect

Dermatologists agree that eczema relief comes down to two words: avoid and protect. Avoid your triggers. Protect your skin at all times with adequate moisturization, non-irritating fibers, and protective gloves.

Avoid:

• Chronic eczema and atopic dermatitis can be reactions to allergens and irritants in the environment, including dust, mold, pollens, and pet dander. Wear a dust mask when cleaning or doing yard work. No need to relinquish your pet: Many pet stores carry dander-reducing lotions for dogs and cats.
• Irritants often cause hand eczema. Wear gloves while handling cleaning supplies and chemicals. If you have a latex allergy, you can obtain latex-free gloves from medical supply houses. If you have eczema on the face, use cosmetics sparingly. Select unscented, hypoallergenic products
• Another trigger is abrupt changes in temperature. Avoid hot baths, excessive air conditioning, saunas and steam rooms. Pooled sweat on the skin is an irritant. When exercising, wear loose cotton clothing and athletic shoes with breathable uppers

Protect:

• Protect your skin and scalp with emollients. Store your eczema remedies in the refrigerator and get cool relief for itchy skin.
• Soak and seal daily: Many find eczema relief through a 10- to 20-minute bath in tepid water with hypoallergenic bath oil or colloidal oatmeal. Pat gently to dry the skin, and immediately apply eczema lotions according to your dermatologist's instructions.
• Take special care in swimming pools. Protect the skin with petroleum jelly and shower immediately afterward to remove the chlorine from your skin. On the other hand, seawater bathing and the occasional sunbath can provide eczema relief.
• Stress management is essential when combating psoriasis and eczema. Try yoga, meditation, tai chi and other centering practices. Many find support in psychotherapy.

Helpful Tips

Are your itchy skin and itchy scalp driving you crazy? As irresistible as it may seem, don't scratch! Scratching feeds the itch-scratch cycle, which will only make you itch more. Distract yourself, reapply your eczema lotion, and wear cotton gloves to bed.

When all else fails, consider your diet. Narrow down the possibilities with an elimination diet, and monitor the results. Start with wheat, corn, dairy, and high-nickel foods such as broccoli, beans, and chocolate.

Herbal treatments for psoriasis and eczema include adding flaxseed and evening primrose oil to the diet. Studies have shown some success with alternative eczema medicine including Chinese herbal preparations, acupuncture, and vitamin therapy.

Life with chronic eczema has its challenges, but you will find that some self-awareness, avoidance, protection, and stress relief are the best eczema remedy, giving you improved control of your condition.