Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition with bouts of flare-ups and remissions, so you need an array of treatment forms in the long-run to manage your symptoms. Even with standard medications, you experience outbreaks that need to be managed.
Early diagnosis is important as it allows for you to begin your treatment quickly to get a handle on your symptoms. In addition to a host of traditional medical treatment approaches, there are also some self-care, at-home remedies that you can incorporate into your everyday life to control symptoms as well as prevent flares.
To relieve itching and alleviate skin inflammation, give these self-care tips a whirl:
Moisturize a minimum of two times on a daily basis
It is essential to identify a moisturizer or a combination of creams/ointments that work for your skin. You can also give natural bath oils, medicated creams, or sprays a try. If it is your child who has eczema, you may want to use a cream in the morning and an ointment before bed.
Avoid scratching
You can try pressing on the itchy area instead of scratching it. If the urge to scratch is too much to resist, you can also wrap the itchy patch.
Try an anti-itch relief cream
Anti-itch creams that do not require a prescription usually only contain 1% hydrocortisone and can be effective in providing short-term relief. Use an anti-itch cream two times a day at most after using a moisturizer as applying the moisturizer initially facilitates the penetration of the hydrocortisone cream into the skin. If there is some improvement, you can reduce the frequency at which you apply this cream as a preventative measure.
Try anti-itch or allergy medicines
There are over-the-counter allergy medications that can also address the symptoms of itching. Some good options are Allegra, Zyrtec, and especially Benadryl. However, take Benadryl before bed only as it may cause drowsiness.
Use dressings
Wrapping the affected skin with dressings can both keep the skin protected from irritants and work as a way for you to refrain from scratching.
Avoid using harsh soaps
Soaps containing dyes, chemicals, or fragrance can dry out your skin and bring on a flare-up. Choose a mild, superfatted, and non-alkaline soap.
Take a healing bath
You can draw yourself a warm bath and add baking soda, colloidal oatmeal, or even regular uncooked oatmeal to the water. Soak in the tub for no longer than 15 minutes and moisturize while your skin is still a bit wet.
Manage stress and anxiety
Too much stress and mood disorders can exacerbate eczema. Managing your stress level and emotional well-being can go a long way in preventing flares.
Featured Image: Depositphotos/© IgorVetushko
Posted on May 18, 2023