Tips for Lessening Your Chances of an Eczema Flare-Up

Eczema is a condition that will leave your skin feeling itchy and even painful at times. While you may not always be able to completely prevent any outbreaks of eczema, there are some things you can do that will significantly decrease your chances of having a flare-up. Here are tips on how you can lessen your chances of triggering an eczema episode.

Keep a journal to learn what sets your eczema off

A flare-up can be caused by a wide range of triggers, including certain types of soap to dust in the air. The best thing you can do for yourself when you have eczema is to make note of any changes you have made right before a flare-up. Keeping a journal is a good idea. For example, if you try a new laundry detergent and you use a new lotion, write the date and brands down in your journal. If your eczema starts bothering you soon after, you can determine one or both of the new products caused it.

Watch your stress levels

Stress can lead to problems with your eczema. While cutting down on stress can be a difficult thing to do, trying to remove stressful situations from your life can really help you keep your condition under control. If you can pass stressful chores onto someone else, you should do so.

Don't wear irritating fabrics or tight clothes

Certain materials such as wool and polyester can be hard on a person's skin who has eczema. You should get in the habit of wearing more eczema-friendly materials such as cotton. You also want to stay away from clothes that fit too tightly.

Stay moisturized

Find a lotion that works for you and try to stick with it. You may want to consider buying in bulk so you have plenty stockpiled in case your local store stops selling that brand. Use the lotion daily and don't wait for your skin to feel dry before you apply it. A good rule of thumb is to go with a fragrance-free lotion with as few chemicals as possible.

Use a humidifier

The wintertime can be a hard time of the year for those with eczema. The dry air can really irritate your skin and significantly increase your chances of an eczema attack. During those colder months you should use a humidifier in your home to help prevent your skin from drying out and triggering an outbreak.

By following the tips above you will find you suffer from eczema flare-ups less often than you usually do. For more information, talk to a professional like Stephen A Switlyk MD.


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