While there is no known cure for eczema, there is much we can do to control symptoms and decrease the severity and frequency of flare-ups. Unfortunately, with all the information available online and word-of-mouth, it can be challenging to tell myth from truth. That means that it’s essential to go right to the source: the trained experts. What do dermatologists recommend? Here are a few ways these doctors help patients manage their eczema and enjoy a better quality of life.
Choose the right skincare products
We may not know exactly what causes a person to have eczema, but we have identified several potential triggers that can prompt or exacerbate a flare-up. Because it affects everyone differently, one person’s triggers may be completely different from another’s. When we know what induces our issues, it becomes much easier to avoid them. Some possibilities include:
- Certain Chemicals - Wear gloves when using cleaning products, avoid perfume, air fresheners, and scented candles, and steer clear of smoke.
- Hot Water - Keep showers and baths lukewarm to avoid irritating the skin with excess heat.
- The Wrong Clothes - When possible, opt for loose, breathable cotton and avoid synthetic materials such as polyester and rayon.
- The body’s natural reaction to stress involves hormones that can cause inflammation and irritate the skin, so be sure to manage tension.
- Try to avoid things that are likely to cause allergic reactions, such as pollen, pet dander, and dust mites.
- Dry Air - Can make symptoms worse. It’s important to moisturize skin regularly and, if possible, use a humidifier indoors.
- Skin Infections - A bacterial or fungal infection can cause eczema flare-ups, so it’s vital to see a dermatologist if itching or redness is worse than usual.
Dermatologists will recommend prescription or over-the-counter medications based on the person’s individual needs. Medications for eczema target symptoms such as itching, inflammation, dryness, or infection. The best medicines for a particular person will depend on several factors. Some of the possible treatments that a dermatologist may recommend include:
- Topical Corticosteroids
- Calcineurin Inhibitors
- Antimicrobials
- Phototherapy
- Oral Antibiotics
- Antihistamines
- Anti-Inflammatories
Choose the Right Skincare Products
All eczema medications work best when used in conjunction with an effective skincare routine. Because eczema flare-ups can be caused by or lead to skin infections, it’s important to choose skincare products that can cleanse the skin of bacteria gently and safely to help prevent or shorten flare-ups.
For this reason, many dermatologists recommend skincare products designed for people whose skin is prone to irritation and inflammation. In fact, more than 7,000 dermatologists recommend CLn. CLn is a full line of skincare products for people with skin conditions, including BodyWash, Shampoo, HandWash, Acne Cleanser, Facial Moisturizer, and more. These products were created in partnership with esteemed dermatologists to meet the unique needs of all different skin types.
Preventing eczema flare-ups starts with home care, and the best way to care for the skin is by keeping it clean and moisturized every day.
Further Reading:
Does eczema go away on it’s own?
Sources:
https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/eczema/childhood/treating/derms-control
https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/eczema/understanding-eczema-treatment
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