What
is Eczema?
Eczema is an inflammation of the skin that can
affect people of any age. In the United Kingdom,
1 in 5 children of school age suffer from eczema,
along with about one in twelve adults. The severity
of the condition can vary; from mild forms,
being dry, hot and itchy, to more severe cases
where the skin can become broken, raw and bleeding.
Although it can
sometimes look unpleasant, eczema is not contagious.
With treatment, the inflammation of eczema can
be reduced, though the skin will always be sensitive
to flare-ups and need extra care. The cause
of Eczema in any particular individual can be
extremely hard to pin down and as a result,
effective treatment is often a case of trial
and error.
Self Help
There are several common-sense ways to help
minimise Eczema flare-ups:
If the irritants that are causing the eczema
are known, avoid them wherever possible.
Detergents and chemicals in soap, washing powder,
bubble bath and shampoo may be a possible cause
of the problem and can certainly make the problem
worse.
Look for products free from Sodium Lauryl /
Laureth Sulphate and chemical preservatives.
Have cool baths or showers, as heat will aggravate
the condition
After washing, pat the skin dry, don't irritate
it by rubbing vigorously with your towel.
Apply an unperfumed moisturiser, preferably
PH balanced, to help keep your skin supple.
Drink plenty of water, as dehydration is a major
contribution of poor skin condition.
Try skin products that actively sooth irritated
skin, to break the damaging itch – scratch
cycle.
Wear cotton clothes next to the skin and avoid
rough, synthetic materials.
Use a hypo-allergenic laundry product to wash
all clothes and other fabrics that come into
contact with your skin.
Avoid using makeup or perfumes, as these products
can often be major sources of irritation to
sensitive or damaged skin.
Always test any product that will come into
direct contact with your skin on a small patch
of skin before full use.
Putting mittens on babies and keeping their
nails short may help prevent damage to the skin
from scratching. Cool, damp, tubular bandages
on arms and legs can also help prevent skin
damage from scratching.
During the day, long sleeves and long trousers can also help minimize
damage from scratching.
Further information
National Eczema Society
http://www.eczema.org
0870 241 3604
