Eczema is an inflammatory response in the body that causes the skin to become irritated, inflamed and intensely itchy. While scratching the itch may provide some relief, it is usually short-lived and can make your skin even more inflamed and itchy.
Eczema sufferers who scratch their inflamed skin are also at risk for developing staphylococcus aureus, or a Staph infection. So what helps dry, itchy skin caused by an eczema flare-up? While no eczema cure exists, there are ways you can manage your condition and prevent the harmful scratching of your skin.
1. Avoid Irritants
In many people with eczema, there are certain triggers that cause a rash to develop on the skin. Common irritants include certain soaps and detergents, irritating fabrics such as wool, extreme temperatures, food allergies, house dust mites and animal dander. If you suspect that something in your environment is causing your flare-ups, keep a journal of when the rashes develop and your environment at the time of the flare-up.
2. Moisturize Well
Eczema can cause the skin to become very dry and irritated. Therefore, it’s vital to keep the skin as soft and moist as possible to prevent further inflammation. Avoid harsh soaps that can dry out the skin. Opt for hypoallergenic moisturizing creams that provide the skin with a protective barrier against further irritation.
Naturally, I recommend TrueLipids products because I have formulated them to do just that. TrueLipids focuses on skin barrier optimization, or SBO and essential skin lipid deficiencies and replacement.
3. Apply Wet Wraps
Cool, wet compresses applied to the affected areas can help relieve irritation and itchiness. Take a shower or bath to remove any bacteria that may have accumulated on the rash, gently pat the skin dry with a towel, and apply a moisturizer. Moisten a large gauze bandage with water and wrap the affected skin.
4. Keep Cool
Heat and sweat can irritate the skin of eczema sufferers, causing more intense itching. Opt for loose, lightweight and breathable clothing that will not trap heat or sweat against the skin. Steer clear of overly warm, clingy fabrics, such as wool or synthetic materials. Also consider showering after exercising to cool off the skin.
5. Ice the Area
If you experience intense itching caused by eczema, it’s crucial not to scratch the skin. Instead, use ice to numb the affected skin and relieve the itch. Ice not only numbs the skin’s surface, but also the tiny C-fibers responsible for transmitting those “itchy” signals to the brain. Apply an ice pack over the skin for a few minutes at a time when the itch becomes overwhelming.
