Eczema: Six self-care tips for treatment of the itchy and irritating skin condition
ECZEMA is a lifelong condition and there is no direct cure, but symptoms can be significantly improved with treatment. Follow these self-care tips to soothe eczema symptoms and avoid flare-ups.
NHS advises the best ways to treat eczema
Eczema is a skin condition that causes the skin to become itchy, red, dry and cracked.
It’s usually a long-term condition, but symptoms can be significantly improved with treatment.
Eczema can sometimes clear up in children as they get older.
Follow these self-care tips to treat eczema and avoid irritating symptoms.
The most greasy, non-perfumed moisturiser tolerated is best. This is the most important part of your skin care
Moisturise
Moisturising the skin will help keep it hydrated and reduce the risk of flare-ups.
The British Skin Foundation advises moisturising at least two to three times each day.
“The most greasy, non-perfumed moisturiser tolerated is best. This is the most important part of your skin care,” said the British Skin Foundation.
Wash with a soap substitute
Soap substitutes contain moisturisers so will moisturise the skin while cleaning, rather than stripping the body of natural oils.
Avoid soap, bubble bath and shower gel as they can irritate the skin.
Wear vinyl gloves when cleaning
Wearing gloves when doing housework will eliminate the possibility of the skin coming into contact with irritants.
Non-powdered vinyl gloves are kinder to the skin than rubber gloves.
Wear comfortable clothes
Clothes made of soft, comfortable materials like cotton are less likely to irritate the skin than scratchy materials like wool.
Use non-bio washing powder
Non-biological washing powders are less harsh than biological powders. Double rinse clothing to remove residue from detergent.
Don’s scratch!
Scratching may relieve itchy eczema briefly, but will make skin itchier in the long term. Moisturise itchy skin instead.