ECZEMA DO'S AND DON'TS

The “Do’s”

• Cleanse skin daily with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser. Try unscented and soap-free cleansers.

• Pat the skin dry, rather than hard rubbing

• Within 3 minutes of getting out of the shower or bath, lock in the moisture in your skin with a moisturizing cream/balm (NOT lotion).

• Stay hydrated with water throughout the day.

• Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. Focus on fruits and vegetables that contain high amounts of Vitamin C (citrus fruits, red bell peppers, melons, etc.)

• Use high thread-count soft cotton sheets and pillowcases. Avoid flannel, “tee-shirt” sheets, and wool. For clothing, wear loose-fitting clothing made of natural materials like cotton instead

• Ease or eliminate the itch with gentle topical ointments or anti-histamine to prevent itch scratch.

• Keep your fingernails short. Remember! The more you scratch, the worse the eczema will become.

• Take some time for yourself and focus on being calm and relaxed.

The “Don’ts”

• DON'T Scratch that itch! Resisting the urge to scratch can be next to impossible, but scratching can lead to broken skin, worsen flares and lead to infection.

• Don't expose yourself to extreme temperatures (both hot and cold) – this includes hot baths and showers! Try
  washing with warm – not hot water.

• Avoid jewelry or clothing that contains potential irritants such as nickel or itchy wool.

• Avoid anti-bacterial bar and liquid soaps whenever possible. These are often irritating to the skin. Be aware that such harsh soaps are usually used in public restrooms.

• Avoid perfumes and dyes and synthetic “fragrances” in detergents, fabric softeners, hand soaps, dish soaps, and lotions.

• Avoid scrubbing or exfoliating ‘tools’ such as rough washcloths or loofahs, which may make eczema worse.

• Don't Stress (if you can avoid it)! Seek activities that bring you joy and inner peace, and confide in someone you trust.