DAILY ECZEMA SKIN CARE

Eczema is a skin disorder relating to allergic condition of the skin in which there is inflammation of the skin. Eczema can be triggered by just about anything coming in contact with the skin. It occurs in atopic people, who are extra sensitive to skin irritation. Dry, flaky skin appears over red, inflamed areas, causing intense itching and burning. Your skin is constantly exposed to the elements, making it susceptible to a variety of problems, including the common condition dermatitis. It is a common condition that isn't life-threatening or contagious. But, it can make you feel uncomfortable and self-conscious. A combination of self-care steps and medications can help you treat dermatitis.

Eczema is also kinown as dermatitis. Eczema is an allergic condition that affects the skin. Dermatitis is inflammation of the skin. There are several different types of dermatitis, but the one people usually mean when they say eczema is atopic dermatitis . Atopic refers to a lifelong tendency to allergic conditions such as  asthma and  allergic rhinitis ( hay fever ). About one out of every 10 kids develops eczema. Typically, symptoms appear within the first few months of life, and almost always before a child turns 5. But more than half of the kids who have eczema today will be over it by the time they're teenagers.

As you have learned, people with eczema have dry, itchy skin. To avoid a flareup of eczema and resulting skin discolorations that can occur in response to eczema in skin of color, you need to be extra gentle with your skin. Cleansing. Wash only once a day, unless you wear makeup, to avoid excessive drying of your skin. Always cleanse with mild, nonirritating cleansers (such as Dove Daily Hydrating Cleansing Cloths, Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, Olay Sensitive Skin, Neutrogena Extra Gentle Cleanser) and lukewarm water. If your skin gets extra dry in winter, switch to a cleanser with gentle emollients (Aveeno Moisturizing Bar for Dry Skin, Eucerin Gentle Hydrating Cleanser, Olay Complete Moisturizing Body Wash for dry skin). Do not use cleansers containing granules, loofahs, or rough cloths, which may only irritate your skin further. Limit your baths or showers to five minutes and use lukewarm or cool water. Gently pat skin dry.

Moisturizing Moisture is crucial for preventing excess dryness and soothing irritated, eczema-prone skin. Apply a rich cream or lotion every day immediately within three minutes is best-after cleansing to seal in moisture. Then reapply to affected areas as needed (usually several times a day). In winter, you may need an especially protective formula such as Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream, Aquaphor, Eucerin, Vaseline, Lac Hydrin cream or lotion, or Amlactim lotion. Read labels and avoid moisturizers that contain any potential irritants such as alcohol or vitamin A (retinol), which can dry the skin and make eczema worse.

Symptoms of Eczema

The symptoms of eczema are related to the skin, as eczema is a skin condition. Here are some of the eczema skin symptoms that may signify someone is suffering from eczema.

• There is a rash
• The skin is itchy
• It may be dry, red, patchy or cracked
• It may weep
• The skin may feel rough
• There may be lesions which become infected.

If you have any of the following symptoms and suspect you may be suffering from eczema, see a doctor for a formal diagnosis.

TREATING ECZEMA

Once eczema flares, treating it promptly is key to not only eliminating the itch but also avoiding any further dark or light marks that might result from scratching. You have many different options for treating eczema, including both over-the-counter products and new prescription medications. Since eczema can be difficult to control and psychologically distressing, I recommend that you work closely with a dermatologist to identify the best solution or combination of solutions for your skin.

The first line of defense for many people with eczema is an over-the-counter corticosteroid cream or ointment such as Cortaid or Cortizone 10. All cortisone products are anti-inflammatory and help many people with mild eczema. Dermatologists instruct patients to apply the cortisone to the affected area or areas of skin twice daily for a two- to three-week period. However, if a nonprescription steroid, cream or ointment does not relieve your symptoms in that period, it's time to see your physician and ask about the suitability of stronger medication.

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