subject: How to Treat Skin That Has Eczema [print this page] How to Treat Skin That Has Eczema How to Treat Skin That Has Eczema
Eczema, otherwise known as atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that is characterized by the swelling of the outer layer of the skin. It has no known cause, although it is linked to other forms of allergic conditions such as hay fever and asthma. Caring for skin that has eczema can be time-consuming. However, with the proper knowledge and guidelines, it's something that shouldn't worry you at all.
Eczema is triggered when the skin comes in contact with harsh elements contained in soap, detergent, and a lot more. So if you have eczema, see to it that you avoid using soap when washing your hands or body. The harsh ingredients in soap can damage your skin's barrier and leave your skin dry. Instead, use cleansers with mild ingredients that will cleanse your skin by removing dirt and oil without drying it.
Dry skin has a higher chance of experiencing an eczema outbreak, so if possible, always use a high quality moisturizer. A moisturizer can maintain the skin's health by keeping it hydrated and by strengthening its protective barrier. Look for moisturizer that's suitable for your skin type, one that would keep your skin hydrated not just from the surface but also from deep within.
The ingredients you will have to look for in a good moisturizer include silicone, mineral oil, petrolatum, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, butylenes glycol, propylene glycol, stearyl alcohol, tacophery acetate, cetyl alcohol, prolipids, and panthenol. A combination of these substances should be present in your moisturizer if it is to keep your skin youthful and properly hydrated.
Another way to treat skin with eczema is through bathing. The purpose of washing the skin is to keep it hydrated and prevent skin dryness. However, it should be done once a day to avoid stripping the skin of its natural moisture. Avoid using warm water, too, as it can dry the skin. You can also add some oatmeal into your bath water. Oatmeal is believed to be effective in soothing the skin and getting rid of itchiness. Finally, don't just rely on bath oils but apply moisturizer directly to your skin after taking a bath instead. Directly applying moisturizer to the skin is the better option in keeping the skin hydrated.
Using hydrocortisone creams and ointments is also one way to deal with eczema aside from applying moisturizer regularly. They are especially effective when you're suffering from mild eczema. For at-home treatments, you can use a compress to soothe eczema. Just wet a clean white cloth and gently pat it on the area of your body affected with eczema for fifteen minutes. However, consulting a doctor is still the best thing to do if you are to minimize the occurrence of such a skin condition.
