Top 10 Expert Tip on Managing Eczema

By Jane Farrell

Atopic dermatitis (or eczema) is a condition that makes your skin red and itchy. It’s common in children but can occur at any age. Atopic dermatitis is chronic, and tends to flare periodically and then subside. It may be accompanied by asthma or hay fever. Although eczema isn’t usually a serious problem, it can be annoying and frustrating, even affecting your quality of life.

No cure has been found for atopic dermatitis. But treatments and self-care measures can relieve itching and prevent new outbreaks. For example, it helps to avoid harsh soaps and other irritants, apply medicated creams or ointments, and moisturize your skin. And please see your doctor if your atopic dermatitis symptoms distract you from your daily routines or prevent you from sleeping.

To help reduce itching + soothe inflamed skin, try these self-care measures:

1.  Take an oral allergy or anti-itch medication. Options include nonprescription allergy medicines (antihistamines) — such as cetirizine (Zyrtec) or fexofenadine (Allegra). Also, diphenhydramine (Benadryl, others) may be helpful if itching is severe. But it can make you drowsy, so it’s better for bedtime.

2.  Apply an anti-itch cream or calamine lotion to the affected area. A nonprescription cream containing at least 1% hydrocortisone can temporarily relieve the itch. Apply before you moisturize. 

3.  Moisturize your skin at least twice a day. Use a moisturizer all over while your skin is still damp from a bath or shower. Pay special attention to your legs, arms, back and the sides of your body. If your skin is already dry, consider using oil or lubricating cream.

4.  Avoid scratching. Cover the itchy area if you can’t keep from scratching it. Trim nails and wear gloves at night.

5.  Apply cool, wet compresses. Covering the affected area with bandages and dressings helps protect the skin and prevent scratching.

6.  Take a warm bath. Sprinkle the bath water with baking soda, uncooked oatmeal or colloidal oatmeal — a finely ground oatmeal that is made for the bathtub (Aveeno, others). Soak for 10 to 15 minutes, then pat dry and apply medicated lotions, moisturizers or both (use the medicated form first).

7.  Choose mild soaps without dyes or perfumes. Be sure to rinse soap totally off your body.

8.  Use a humidifier. Hot, dry indoor air can parch sensitive skin and worsen itching and flaking. A portable home humidifier or one attached to your furnace adds moisture to the air inside your home. Keep your humidifier clean to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi.

9.  Wear cool, smooth-textured cotton clothing. Reduce irritation by avoiding clothing that’s rough, tight, scratchy or made from wool. Also, wear appropriate clothing in hot weather or during exercise to prevent excessive sweating.

10.  Treat stress and anxiety. Stress and other emotional disorders can worsen atopic dermatitis. Acknowledging those and trying to improve your emotional health can help.