If you or a loved one struggle with eczema, you know all too well how uncomfortable the skin condition can be. Fortunately, skincare and prescription products can help you alleviate the worst symptoms of eczema, including dry skin, irritation, redness, and rash.
What is Eczema? Indicators That Your Skin is Suffering From Eczema
Eczema, otherwise known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition in which the epidermis has trouble keeping a maintained moisture barrier, resulting in dry, flaky, irritated skin, and in worse cases: redness and rash. Eczema can flare up when irritated by environmental triggers, yet as a chronic condition, seemingly can flare up completely unexpectedly. As opposed to contact dermatitis, which is caused by a specific allergen, atopic dermatitis can be triggered by any number of factors.
Potential triggers of atopic dermatitis could include chemicals or irritants in certain products, cold/dry air during the winter, metals, certain fabrics (like wool), antibacterial ointments, smoke, hot water, and even stress.
If you believe you are suffering from atopic dermatitis, consult a professional or dermatologist for proper care. Once doing so, you can begin to build a proper skincare routine to keep flare-ups at a minimum and protect your skin from painful and uncomfortable dryness, rashes, and inflammation.
Prevention & Treatment
The first step in treating and managing chronic eczema is to manage itchiness. Dry and inflamed skin can be incredibly itchy and uncomfortable, and itching can lead to open wounds or scratches that are prone to infection. Ensure you consult a dermatologist about prescription creams or lotions to prevent itching, and alleviate itchy skin.
Next, the key to preventing future flare-ups and treating current eczema is to moisturize consistently throughout the day (at least 2 to 3 times). As the skin barrier is not working properly to retain moisture in cases of eczema, ensure that you are using products that are soothing and hydrating consistently throughout the day. Washing and cleansing the body and the face can strip the skin of moisture, so always follow up with a hydrating cream or moisturizer.
Skincare Solutions for Eczema
There are plenty of skincare products out there that can help alleviate symptoms of eczema and even fortify the skin to prevent flare-ups. It’s important to know what kinds of ingredients to look out for, and which to avoid if you struggle with eczema.
Many skincare products contain chemical irritant ingredients, so ensure to avoid lanolin, retinoids, urea, fragrances, ethanol, and even Vitamin C.
The key is to use products that use “soothing” or “hydrating” in their names. These products will be gentle on sensitive skin and provide adequate moisture and hydration to the skin barrier. Look for gently, all-natural, and organic ingredients like Coconut Oil, Colloidal Oatmeal, Ceramides, and natural oils.
For your skincare routine, building a regimen that will be gentle on sensitive skin is key.
