Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is a collection of skin conditions characterized by a red, itchy skin rash. The condition can appear on the face, elbows, knees, feet, or hands, and it may go away for a while and then flare up again. Pet dander, hot or cold weather, sweaty or dry skin, and harsh soaps/cleansers, are all triggers and knowing what sets your condition off can help you avoid flare-ups. Here are some tips for preventing eczema flare-ups.
Dressing Your Bed
Your bed routine could be what is causing the flare-ups. Overheating from warm pajamas, heavy quilts, and blankets causes sweating and itching. Ideal bedding for people living with eczema are cotton or silk pajamas and bed sheets. Such options are breathable and it is also a great idea to dress your bed in layers. Stay away from wool as it could trigger itching.
Dressing your bed well facilitates quality sleep time, an essential consideration that also gives your body the rest it needs to repair itself from wear and tear and alleviate the stress that also contributes to flare-ups.
Moisturize
Proper hydration improves your skin’s functionality and as you strive to avoid flare-ups, upping your moisturization efforts is advisable. Dry skin gets irritated easily as it gets tight and brittle. Finding an ideal moisturizer – without fragrances and other ingredients that could cause flare-ups – is the best approach. Applying the moisturizer – ideally twice a day – helps to keep skin in good condition. Choose creamy and thick ointments and creams over watery moisturizers to help stay moisturized for longer.
Revise Your Shower Routine
Long, hot showers – a go-to for relaxation – could be what is causing your eczema flare-ups. Such routines cause your skin to dry out, a flare-up trigger. Your products could also be contributing. Always opt for unscented bath products. Use a soft towel to avoid irritating your skin and don’t scrub but rather pat yourself dry.
Dress in Layers
Staying warm is necessary and as you endeavor to avoid flare-ups, dressing in layers is the best option. Upgrade your wardrobe with an extensive collection of indoor and outdoor clothing layers that you can easily wear or remove. Start with a light layer that can wick away moisture from the skin. Follow it with sweaters, overcoats, scarves, and hats, and keep in mind the materials they are made of to ensure that you stick with non-scratchy clothing. With layers, you can easily add or remove items according to the temperature.
Protect Your Skin
Gloves are an ideal addition to your wardrobe. Wear protective gloves while cleaning and warm winter ones when heading out. This is an easy and effective way to prevent eczema flare-ups. Gloves also come in handy as they keep you away from triggers like cold air.
Keeping eczema flare-ups at bay isn’t only about finding the right treatment option. Identifying the triggers, avoiding them, and utilizing measures such as those highlighted above can help you avoid the flare-ups.
