Tips + Tricks for Eczema! | Dr. Shereene Idriss
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize: This is the most important tip for managing eczema. Use a fragrance-free, gentle moisturizer at least twice a day, and more often if your skin is dry. Apply moisturizer immediately after showering or bathing to trap in moisture.
Moisturizer for eczema
Avoid triggers: Common triggers for eczema include harsh soaps and detergents, wool, dust mites, pet dander, and sweating. Once you identify your triggers, you can take steps to avoid them.
- Gentle laundry: Wash your clothes in fragrance-free detergent and avoid fabric softeners.
Fragrancefree detergent
- Dust mites: Keep your bedroom cool and dry, and wash your bedding in hot water every week.
Dust mites
- Pet dander: If you’re allergic to pet dander, keep pets out of your bedroom and wash your hands after petting them.
Pet dander
- Sweat: Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing and avoid getting too hot.
Take short, cool showers or baths: Hot water can dry out your skin and make eczema worse. Use lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser. Avoid scrubbing your skin, as this can irritate it.
Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing: Rubbing can irritate your skin. Gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel after showering or bathing.
Use a humidifier: Adding moisture to the air can help prevent your skin from drying out.
Resist the urge to scratch: Scratching can make your eczema worse. If you find yourself scratching, try applying a cold compress to the itchy area or taking an over-the-counter anti-itch medication.
Manage stress: Stress can trigger eczema flare-ups. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as yoga, meditation, or exercise.
See a doctor: If your eczema is severe or not improving with home care, see a doctor. They can prescribe medication to help control your symptoms.
Here are some additional tips that you may find helpful:
- Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing made from natural fibers such as cotton.
- Avoid harsh chemicals and fragrances.
- Eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of water.
- Get enough sleep.
I hope these tips help you manage your eczema. Please remember that everyone’s eczema is different, so what works for one person may not work for another. It’s important to experiment and find what works best for you.
Sources
www.wavwatch.com/blog/biohacking-the-new-science-of-optimizing-your-brain-and