Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition. Sometimes interchanged with the term atopic dermatitis, as it is a type of eczema symptoms include red, dry, itchy skin, and skin that may ooze from bumps that develop on the skin.
Many people who suffer from this skin condition suffer from eczema on the face, hands, and bends of the arms and knees. An eczema rash can be quite painful and, according to the Eczema Society of Canada, “can negatively impact the quality of life.”
Many people who suffer from this skin condition suffer from eczema on the face, hands, and bends of the arms and knees. An eczema rash can be quite painful and, according to the Eczema Society of Canada, “can negatively impact the quality of life.”
Eczema Causes
While the cause of eczema can sometimes be a mystery, many doctors believe flare-ups of eczema can stem from triggers. These triggers can be – but are not limited to:
- Heavily perfumed soaps or cleansers
- Clothing fabrics
- Carpet fibres
- Dust
- Deodorants
- Food allergies
- Dry skin
- Excessive sweat
- Stress
Eczema Prevention
We suggest keeping a journal or logbook to note the times you have eczema breakouts and what you believe was their trigger. This can help you learn to avoid your triggers and have something to discuss with your doctor if the flare-ups become severe enough to warrant a prescription treatment.
If you suffer from eczema on the hands, you may try the following modifications to limit hand flare-ups.
- Wear gloves when touching raw food
- Wear cotton gloves under vinyl gloves to prevent direct contact
- Wear gloves while washing hair and body with perfumed products
- Remove rings before hand washing
- Avoid excessive sweating or adversely extreme dry conditions
- Limit scratching, which can worsen the condition
- Avoid stressful situations that may cause the skin to flare up
- Use a barrier cream on top of the prescribed cream
Eczema Treatment
The Eczema Society of Canada suggests “keeping your skin moist is your first line of defence against eczema.” Preferred moisturizers to treat eczema on the face or hands are those that have minimal ingredients, plus you want a product that doesn’t sting or further irritate open areas of the skin.
It’s also helpful to choose an eczema cream or moisturizer that helps to hold in the skin’s natural moisture. We always suggest adding a moisturizer after a hand wash, a bath or shower, and anytime you feel the need to trap in moisture between periods of prescribed treatments.
Try some of the following Dermal Therapy products to help keep your skin moisturized.
Dermal Therapy Sensitive Skin Care
A great option to help trap in moisture between flare-ups and when the skin is no longer broken. We love it because it soothes the skin, absorbs quickly, has a non-greasy formula, and is fragrance-free.
Dermal Therapy Extra Strength Body Lotion
With 10% urea, a crucial part of the skin’s natural moisturizing system, this is the perfect lotion to quickly and actively restore lost moisture due to eczema’s extreme drying effects on the skin. After regular use, you’ll notice improved skin tone and a silky, vibrant finish.
For more information on eczema, check out the National Eczema Association.
Sources:
About Eczema - The Eczema Society of Canada (eczemahelp.ca)
National Eczema Association | Symptoms, Support, Treatment & Research
