How To Treat An Irritating Eczema Flare-Up

Eczema is a skin condition that causes redness and itching. It's more common in children, though it can also affect adults. The condition tends to get better, then flares up for a period of time before going away again. It often flares at the same time as asthma or hay fever. There's no cure for this skin condition, but there are some tips you can use to manage your flare-up. Use this guide to help you take control of your skin's health.

See Your Doctor

When it comes to your health, it's important to keep your doctor in the loop. He or she can prescribe medications or creams that can help you control your eczema during flare-ups and otherwise. Your doctor can also recommend other types of treatment, such as light therapy, counselling, and behaviour modification, for extreme cases.

Keep Your Skin Hydrated

One of the best things you can do at home is to moisturise your skin regularly, even when you aren't experiencing a flare-up. A natural moisturiser is an easy way to keep skin hydrated, which can keep eczema from flaring. Organic skincare products are a particularly good choice as they tend to have fewer ingredients and are less likely to irritate your skin. In addition to lotion, you can try oils, ointments, sprays, or creams to treat your skin. Some of these products may even be used to get rid of eczema scars.

Use Anti-Itch Products

The itching that's often associated with eczema can lead to scratching, which makes it hard to control the flare-up. By using anti-itch products, you reduce the need to scratch and help alleviate the irritation. Try a cortisone cream, applied topically to your patches of eczema, or use an over the counter allergy medication. You might even find the best relief by using both. Make a habit of not scratching and instead press on the skin to eliminate the itch. This provides relief from the itching, but without the damage that continued scratching can cause.

Wear Bandages

Not only can bandages help keep you from scratching your skin, but they also protect your flare-up while it heals. You can use basic bandages, applied over an anti-itch cream to provide relief and encourage the irritation to abate.

Soak in a Warm Bath

You don't want to sit in a bath that's too hot, as that can make the condition worse, but a warm bath can provide relief from the itching and discomfort. Aim for 10 to 15 minutes in the tub for the best results. You can sprinkle baking soda or oats into the water to help with your symptoms. When you get out, gently pat your skin dry, then apply your lotion and cream before getting dressed.

In addition to these tips, make sure you wear loose clothing, avoid skincare products that are scented and run a humidifier in your home. These easy steps can keep you from being miserable during an eczema flare up and protect your skin at the same time.