Eczema, or dermatitis, affects patients chronically, with flare-ups of itchy, sensitive skin, and as a temporary result of contact with allergens. The symptoms include a rash of dry, red skin that becomes worse in the presence of certain triggers, such as some foods, low humidity or irritating substances.
These triggers differ from person to person, so part of eczema treatment involves learning to identify them. Avoidance of irritants, dedicated skin care and relief for pain and inflammation will control chronic atopic dermatitis and passing conditions of contact dermatitis.
For Itching
Scratching exacerbates rashes, so priority eczema treatment entails controlling itching. The Mayo Clinic recommends topical creams, such as hydrocortisone and calamine lotions, and oral antihistamine medicines, such as loratadine and diphenhydramine, for ongoing pain and itch relief. During serious outbreaks, warm baths in colloidal oatmeal can ease symptoms.
For Bacterial Build-Up
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) explains that most patients with atopic eczema tend to have staphylococcus aureus bacteria on their skin surfaces. Daily cleansing, either with a mild cleanser or using no soap if skin has flared, helps to reduce the build-up of staph bacteria. Periodic warm baths with ½ cup bleach added to 40 gallons of water will further retard bacterial growth.
To Hydrate Skin
After bathing, the skin’s moisture balance must be restored. The AAD suggests applying a fragrance-free moisturizing cream, lotion or ointment within a few minutes of toweling off as part of a daily skin care routine. Moisturizing eczema treatments can be used as often as necessary to smooth flaky, sensitive skin and keep dryness under control.
For Extra-Dry Skin
When humidity is low or skin has dried and shows signs of cracking, eczema treatment should increase hydration levels further. An indoor room humidifier raises the moisture content in the air, which is especially helpful when skin-drying air conditioning or heaters provide temperature control. The Mayo Clinic notes that humidifiers should be kept clean to prevent bacteria and fungi from forming and triggering eczema symptoms.
To Avoid Infection
Sometimes scratching becomes an unconscious reaction, often during times of stress when itch symptoms may not even be present. The AAD advises keeping sensitive skin intact by wearing soft cotton gloves at home, trimming fingernails to avoid accidentally breaking the skin, and using cool, moist compresses when symptoms are severe.
To Avoid Irritation
In between flare-ups, patients should practice gentle skin care techniques, never rubbing with washcloths, sponges or towels. Lather sensitive skin using fingertips, and apply moisturizing products by pressing or patting. The AAD suggests layering clothes to avoid sweating, which can trigger a rash, or changing into dry clothes immediately after perspiring heavily.
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