It’s certainly
not new news that the winter leaves everyone with dry, chapped and cracked
skin, but for those suffering from eczema, winter can unleash a whole other
beast on your skin. Eczema is a common inflammation of the skin that is not contagious,
but is extremely uncomfortable for those who suffer from it.
Common exacerbations
of eczema include an allergic reaction to something in contact with the skin
such as detergents, soaps, fabrics or substances that dry out the skin. Some
types of eczema are hereditary.
Here are
some tips for eczema sufferers to get through the “itchy” season:
1. It’s better to take a bath rather
than a shower as the skin hydrates better. When bathing, put Aveno powder into
the bath to help soothe the skin and soak for 15-20 minutes.
2. If you do not have a
tub or do not care for baths, take a lukewarm shower (it’s important to make
sure the water is not too hot or too cold). Use moisturizing soaps like Dove or
Cetaphil.
3. After your bath or shower, gently pat
skin dry.
4. Immediately after patting skin dry,
apply a moisturizing cream—not lotion
5. Moisturize using Eucerin a few
times a day (typically in the morning and at night) to help keep your skin
hydrated.
6. Avoid
wool clothing, as it will trigger itching.
7. Wear layered clothing to keep your body temperature
moderate. You never want to get overheated or be too cold, as this will cause
eczema flare-ups.
8. Take a Benadryl at night if you can’t seem to stop
itching, but beware, Benadryl will make you sleepy or groggy.
It’s
important to note that the physicians at Windsor Dermatology can provide a
proper diagnosis and treatment plan to manage or diagnose eczema. For more
information, Windsor Dermatology can be reached at 609-443-4500 to schedule an appointment.
