Eczema Tips You Might’ve Missed

So in relation to our article “What Factors Worsen Your Eczema,” here's a list of tips you can add to your routine.

Cosmetics, Perfume

TIP # 1: Putting effort into your appearance can help boost your confidence. But putting more effort into being safe should also be a priority. So be mindful of the products you apply onto your skin, especially your face. Check the ingredients of the products you’ll use. If those products contain irritants, opt for safer alternatives instead.

Pets

TIP # 2: No matter how much you want a pet to cuddle with, consult with your doctor first. See if you’re allergic to animal fur, which can trigger your eczema (atopic dermatitis) symptoms. If you are, consider moving your pet to another area of your home. You may also try getting breeds that shed less to decrease the triggers for your allergies[LCM1] , though you may still get allergic reactions from their saliva or urine if you are sensitive to these triggers. Remember to regularly bathe them, vacuum your home, and always wash your hands after.

Clothing Materials

TIP # 3: Be fashionable, but not at the expense of your skin. Check the tags before buying clothes. Avoid materials that are itchy. Choose natural fibers like cotton or silk instead. They’re soft, breathable, absorbent, and comfortable.Consider clothes that don’t trap sweat and allow you to move freely.

Metals

TIP # 4: Fashion accessories add character to your outfits. But just like with clothing, you should still be mindful of which accessories you use. Switch to jewelry made of copper, yellow gold, platinum, stainless steel, or sterling silver. For eyeglass frames, switch to stainless steel, titanium, or plastic. These materials are less likely to worsen your skin’s condition.

Extreme Temperatures

TIP # 5: We often associate the summer season with vacation. But summer also means intense heat and humidity in this country. To help ease your discomfort, wear light breathable clothes during this season. Avoid going out when the sun’s high up and scorching hot. Not only are you more at risk for dehydration, but doing so could be harmful for your skin, too. So drink plenty of water to quench your thirst, and to keep your skin moisturized at the same time.

Sand

TIP # 6: Don't worry! You can still enjoy your beach vacations. Just have a good rinse after having fun at the beach to get rid of the remaining sand on your body. This will avoid micro-abrasions on the skin. It will also soothe the skin and prevent flare-ups.

Food Allergies

TIP # 7: Be careful with the food you eat, especially if you have food allergies. Know the common allergens and switch to a healthier diet if your doctor recommends it. Read our other article, “To Eat or Not to Eat: Eczema Edition” for more information.

Stress or Itch-Scratch Cycle

TIP # 8: You might respond to stress by scratching your skin. And you want to avoid this because it hurts your skin. Instead, try relaxation techniques like meditation whenever you feel stressed. Close your eyes and take slow deep breaths. These can help clear your mind and reduce stress levels. But for times you can’t help but scratch, cut your nails short to avoid further damage.

Hormones

TIP # 9: Some women have reported experiencing more eczema (atopic dermatitis) symptoms before their period or during their pregnancies. Track your cycle so you can prepare the necessary treatments recommended by your doctor to take care of your skin during these periods.

Medication

TIP # 10: Apply medication to help ease your discomfort. Mometasone furoate (Elica®) products help stop itching, reduce redness, ease swelling, and provide relief within 24 hours. Mometasone furoate (Elica®) cream is applied on thin skin (like on the face) and moist lesions while Mometasone furoate (Elica®) ointment is applied on dry lesions and thickened skin. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.