Eczema: A Self-Care Guide to Managing Your Skin.
Embarking on a skincare journey with eczema can feel like navigating a bit of a labyrinth. Eczema, often in the form of atopic dermatitis, is the itch that seemingly has no rhyme or reason. Unlike its cousin, contact dermatitis, which can be traced back to specific irritants or allergens, atopic eczema is a bit of a mystery. While it's not entirely clear what causes it, research suggests a connection to allergies, especially in individuals with conditions like asthma. But fear not, this self-care guide will be your compass through the stress that eczema can be. Remember, while this advice is here to help, consulting a healthcare professional is always your no.1 priority.
Tending to the Itch
Eczema's favourite pastime is making you itch. It's a vicious cycle. Scratching stimulates nerves, causes inflammation, leads to a rash, and fuels further itching. To manage eczema, you must first master the art of itch control. And for many adults, eczema often decides to set camp front and centre on your face and neck. Proper skincare with eczema revolves around two key principles: hydration and soothing, all while minimising irritation. Eczema often means your skin barrier isn't working as it should, so keeping your skin hydrated becomes paramount. Choose skincare products that are fragrance-free and devoid of ingredients known to aggravate eczema, such as lanolin. Steer clear of retinol, vitamin C, and alpha hydroxy (AHAs) or salicylic acids, as they can provoke eczema. One magical ingredient to look for is hyaluronic acid. It locks in moisture without irritating your skin. Some studies even suggest that a hyaluronic acid–ceramide combo can alleviate mild to moderate eczema symptoms.
Your Eczema-Proof Skincare Routine
While the specific routine will vary, here are some general rules for eczema-prone skin:
Gentle Cleansing: Cleanse your skin gently to reduce irritation, keep it clean, and boost hydration.
Prescribed Treatment: Use doctor-prescribed creams, such as corticosteroids, to address eczema patches.
Moisturise: Hydrate your skin to lock in moisture and strengthen your skin's barrier.
Sun Protection: Shield your skin from UV light by applying sunscreen, especially if your skin is sensitive to sunlight.
Fragrance-Free: Opt for products with no fragrance. Always.
Mild pH: Ensure your products have the right pH level for your skin. You can find this out on the website of the product.
When hunting for a moisturiser, the National Eczema Association (NEA) suggests looking for ingredients like aloe vera, humectants such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin, oats, shea butter, vitamin E, and niacinamide (a form of vitamin B3). When it comes to sunscreen, opt for mineral-based options with active ingredients like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. These are gentler on sensitive skin.
On the flip side, avoid products with:
Fragrance
Essential Oils
Ethanol or Alcohol
Propylene Glycol
Urea
Retinoids
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Lanolin
The "Soak and Seal" Method
Many experts recommend the "Soak and Seal" method to combat dry skin and reduce flare-ups. Here's how it works:
Bathe: Take a lukewarm (not hot) bath for 5-10 minutes using a gentle cleanser. Avoid scrubbing the affected skin.
Pat Dry: After bathing, gently pat your skin dry, leaving it slightly damp.
Prescription: Apply your prescribed topical medication to affected areas as directed.
Moisturise: Within three minutes, generously apply moisturiser all over your body. Timing is crucial; doing it within the first few minutes prevents your skin from becoming even drier.
Wait: Give your moisturiser a few minutes to absorb before dressing or applying wet wraps.
Life with Eczema
Beyond skincare, some lifestyle modifications can really help manage eczema:
Choose "Sensitive-Skin" Products: Opt for detergent, hand soap, and other products labeled "sensitive-skin” and remember to check the ingredients also.
Cotton Clothing: When possible, choose cotton clothing for its breathable nature. Linen is also great for this.
Jewellery: Be selective with your jewellery as sometimes it can irritate the skin around the wrists or chest, therefore always be conscious of your skin when you choose to wear it.
Bathing Habits: Avoid hot showers; opt for baths when you can. If you are unable to bathe, making sure that the water is only lukewarm will save the impact of the water being irritating and inflammatory.
Moisturising Routine: Lock in moisture by moisturising head to toe within a minute after bathing, ensuring your skin retains its hydration.
Eczema management is a a process, and finding what works for your skin is totally possible if you consider what’s causing irritation and finding resolutions. Be patient, and we cannot stress enough that you should always consult with a healthcare professional about the changes you make involving your skin. Let a desire for self-care be your guide through the maze that is eczema. Your skin deserves the love and care you're about to give it.
