5 Do’s and Don’ts to Keep in Mind When Dealing with Eczema
Do you know anybody with eczema? You probably do, since it’s a fairly prevalent condition in the US. Statistics suggest that about 31.6 million people in the US have some type of eczema, including a large number of little children.
In doctor terminology, it’s often referred to as atopic dermatitis and basically makes one’s skin red, blotchy, and very itchy. It’s a choric condition with periodic flare-ups that are often paired up with hay fever or even asthma.
So, if you, your child, or somebody else around you suffer from eczema, make sure to follow these do’s and don’ts.
DO: Avoid Soap Cleansers and Scented Skincare Products
If you have eczema, it’s always too easy for you to go overboard with the soap. So, try and use soap or products with soap as sparingly as possible. And on the rare occasion that you do decide to clean up with cleansers, use the ones that are non-scented, soap-free, and significantly gentle on the skin.
DON’T: Use Hot Water
Hot water may seem relaxing at first, but it can cause a flare-up. Ideally, if you suffer from eczema, you should stick to cold water. But if you must use warm water, stick to lukewarm. The hotter your water gets, the drier it makes your skin.
DO: Moisturize, Moisturize and Moisturize
Washing is always going to dry out your skin. So, every time you wash even just your hands, make sure to immediately moisturize them. This simple step is so crucial and yet so easily ignored. While moisturizing is essential for everybody, dry skin or not, it’s absolutely unignorable for those suffering from eczema, as dry skin can very easily trigger a flare-up by becoming more susceptible to bacteria.
DON’T: Ignore Your Closet
A lot of times, the reason for recurring eczema could be hidden in your closet. Not only should you identify and eliminate the clothing choices that may trigger a flare-up, but you should also always be on the lookout for new options that could potentially suit your condition. As a general rule of thumb, soft, loosely fitted clothing is your go-to option if you have eczema.
DO: Check-in With A Doctor
Eczema is a life-long condition. That being said, it is a manageable one. From making the right life choices and diet choices to taking medication for flare-ups and avoiding activities that could cause further discomfort, a certified dermatologist could outline a path for you to manage your eczema symptoms effectively.
If you’re experiencing symptoms lately that you’re unable to manage, get in touch with our virtual doctors online. With online doctor consultations to prescriptions, we can help you through these tough times.