Several conditions produce the reactive pattern which causes eczema. Atopic dermatitis is often caused by eczema and is often found in people with asthma and hay fever. Small weeping or oozing blisters or crusty plaques of skin are the signs of eczema.
Putting water back into your skin is the best thing you can do for managing eczema. If you take a relaxing bath or shower, blot yourself dry and moisturize immediately afterward to better hydrate your skin. Moisturize several times a day to rehydrate your skin and build up a barrier against dryness.
It is recommended by dermatologists to bathe and moisturize at night before sleeping, so the water can be more completely absorbed into your skin.
For hand eczema, saturate your hands in water and put on prescribed ointments followed by putting on pure cotton gloves before retiring for the night.
Eczema Management Check List
- Moisturize. Be careful not to use harsh soaps and apply a moisturizer at least twice a day; especially after getting out of the shower. (Use lukewarm water, not hot.) Avoid fragrances and additives.
- Warm air at work and at home can dry out the air. A humidifier puts moisture back into the air and protects your skin. Humidity should be between 45 and 55 percent to help skin stay moist. Humidity more than 55 percent can encourage dust mites.
- Skin protection. When temperatures change your skin is the first to feel it so use gloves and other protective clothing then remove them if they get wet. Use sunscreen outdoors no matter what season it is to protect from harmful UV rays.
- No irritants. Keep a distance from your allergy triggers. Use a clothes detergent for sensitive skin that is perfume and additive free.
- Triggers. Know your eczema triggers and avoid them.
- Scratching. Short fingernails will avoid breaking the skin when scratching.
- Pets. Give your pets a dander treatment
Ways Water Helps Your Skin
- It hydrates your skin.
- It softens skin, so the topical medications and moisturizers can be absorbed.
- It removes toxins and irritants.
- It cleanses and removes encrusted tissue.
- It is a stress reducer.
When Should I Visit a Dermatologist for Eczema?
Although there is no cure for eczema, in most cases it is manageable. See your board-certified dermatologist to get a professional diagnosis and expert recommendations for managing eczema. We have multiple locations throughout the country, so fill out our simple online form to get in touch with us. One of our local team members will reach out to you shortly to answer your questions or schedule an appointment for you to visit us soon.
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