ECZEMA – Preventing Flare-Ups
Management of Eczema begins with an effective skin care routine, possibly requiring lifestyle modifications. Experts agree on the following guidelines to help reduce the severity and frequency of flare-ups of Eczema:
1. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Eczema usually occurs on dry, itchy skin, so applying a moisturizer as needed to keep the skin moist will help alleviate these symptoms. ARMSTRONG SKIN-AID for ECZEMA is a unique moisturizer because it effectively seals the irritated skin, holding captive the body’s inherent moisture and preventing dryness and cracking.
2. Limit contact with anything that irritates the skin. Soaps, bubble bath, perfumes, cosmetics, laundry detergents, household cleaners, too much time spent in water, finger paints, gasoline, turpentine, wool, pet fur, juices from meats and fruits, plants, jewelry and even some lotions can irritate sensitive skin. Know what irritates your skin and limit contact. Also avoid personal-care products that contain alcohol and washing hands or hair too frequently.
3. Avoid sweating and overheating. Sweating and overheating are the most common triggers of the itch-scratch cycle. Application of ARMSTRONG SKIN-AID as soon as the itching begins will cut the cycle off at the pass!
4. Avoid sudden changes in temperature and humidity. A sudden rise in temperature can cause overheating and sweating. A drop in humidity can dry skin and lead to a flare-up.
5. Keep fingernails short. Keeping nails short and/or wearing cotton gloves at night decreases the likelihood that unconscious scratching will puncture the skin, further inflaming the rash and allowing bacteria to enter and cause an infection.
6. Dress in loose-fitting cotton clothes. Synthetic fabrics, wool, and other materials that feel rough to the touch often irritate the skin and trigger a flare-up. Cotton and cotton-blend fabrics usually feel better against the skin.
7. Double-rinse clothes, and wash new clothes before wearing. Laundry detergents can cause flare-ups. Using a fragrance-free, neutral pH detergent and double-rinsing clothes can alleviate this source of irritation. Washing new clothes before wearing them will remove excess dyes and fabric finishes which may also irritate the skin.
8. Reduce stress. Eczema is worsened, and possibly triggered by stress. In today’s fast-paced world, reducing stress is a challenge. Visit Stress Reduction Techniques for suggestions.
9. Limit exposure to environmental triggers. Pollens, molds, mites, and animal dander can cause flare-ups.