Eczema can cause dry, red, and itchy skin, but simple steps can help. Use thick creams to keep your skin soft, stay away from heat and harsh soaps, and wear soft clothing. Stay calm, avoid stress, and see a doctor if symptoms get worse or won't go away.
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1. Keep your skin moisturized
Dry skin can trigger or worsen eczema symptoms, so keeping your skin moisturized is key. Experts recommend using heavy, unscented creams or ointments instead of lotions, which may not provide enough moisturization. Apply moisturizer immediately after bathing while your skin is still damp to lock in moisture. Natural oils like coconut oil can also help soothe dry skin.
2. Take a short, warm shower
Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils and make eczema worse. Instead, take short showers with warm water. Use a mild, unscented soap or non-soap cleanser to avoid irritating your skin. After bathing, gently pat your skin dry and apply moisturizer immediately.
3. Identify and avoid triggers
Many factors can trigger eczema, including allergens, harsh soaps, stress, and certain fabrics. Keep a journal to track what may be causing your eczema flare-ups, and avoid these triggers when possible.
- Wool or rough fabrics
- Scented skin care products
- Dust mites and pet dander
- Stress and anxiety
- Certain foods (such as dairy, nuts, or eggs for some people)
4. Use ointments when necessary
For moderate to severe eczema, over-the-counter ointments may not be enough. Dermatologists often recommend topical corticosteroid ointments to reduce inflammation and itching during flare-ups. However, these ointments should be used as directed to avoid thinning the skin. In some cases, doctors may prescribe nonsteroidal ointments, such as calcineurin inhibitors, for long-term treatment.
5. Wear soft, breathable clothing
Clothing can irritate sensitive skin, so it's best to wear soft, breathable fabrics, such as cotton. Avoid wool or synthetic fabrics, which can trap heat and moisture, causing itching and irritation. Also, wash new clothes before wearing them to remove dyes or chemicals that may trigger eczema.
6. Manage stress
Stress is a common trigger for eczema flare-ups. Experts recommend stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or gentle physical activity like walking. Getting enough sleep and maintaining a balanced lifestyle can also help reduce stress and prevent eczema from getting worse.
7. Keep your nails short to prevent scratching
Itching is one of the most frustrating symptoms of eczema, but scratching can damage the skin and lead to infection. Keeping your nails short minimizes damage from scratching. For children, wearing soft cotton gloves at night can prevent them from scratching while they sleep.
8. Use a humidifier during dry seasons
Dry air, especially in winter, can worsen eczema symptoms. Using a humidifier at home can increase the humidity in the air and help prevent dry skin. Be sure to clean the humidifier regularly to avoid the growth of mold or bacteria.
9. Watch your diet
While diet may not affect everyone with eczema, certain foods may trigger eczema in some people. Common food triggers include dairy, eggs, nuts, and gluten. An elimination diet, guided by a healthcare professional, can help identify which foods may be contributing to eczema symptoms.
10. Seek medical advice when necessary
If eczema symptoms are severe, do not improve with home care, or result in a skin infection, always seek help from a dermatologist. They can provide prescription treatments, advanced medications such as light therapy, or biologics to treat more severe cases.
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Conclusion
Controlling eczema requires ongoing care and attention to triggers. Many people can find relief from eczema symptoms by keeping their skin moisturized, avoiding irritants, managing stress, and using appropriate treatments. For those who have difficulty managing eczema, consulting a dermatologist can provide additional options for long-term relief and improved skin health.
