Eczema Relief: Top Strategies for Clearer Skin
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a long-term condition that forms rashes which are red, itchy and inflamed on the skin. This is worse at times and tends to be chronic, usually having to be managed so that the symptoms do not flare up. Do you suffer from eczema? Don’t worry, you are not the only person on the planet, because millions of people have this skin issue. The good news is that there are, however, ways and means of managing and even alleviating Eczema so that you can get that clear skin that you have always wanted.
1. Moisturize Regularly
Some of the most important tips that one can take in order to manage the condition include the following, moisturizing the skin. Through an evaluation of these developments, it is easy to see that eczema makes the skin barrier dry out thus becoming sensitive. To prevent this, one must ensure that he or she uses a fragrance-free and a heavy moisturizer in the morning as well as in the evening with emphasis being placed on moisturizing the skin immediately after showering.
That’s why you should look for products containing ceramides, glycerin or hyaluronic acid – they strengthen the outer layer of your skin. People with eczema also prefer creams and ointment as compared to the lotions because in creams and ointments there is a formation of a thicker layer on the skin.
2. Identify and Avoid Triggers
There are many causes of eczema which result in flare ups and some of these causes include allergens, irritants, stress among others and even some kinds of foods. Maintaining an account of what you feel and what might be causing you to have an outbreak of the skin condition can be of great help. Common triggers include:
- Harsh soaps and detergents: Choose the mild, non-irritating and non-scented products.
- Environmental allergens: Pollens, dust mites and pet dander are other causes of flare up of the symptoms of eczema.
- Stress: Meditation, yoga or any form that can assist in the management of stress may be effective in preventing flare up.
- Certain fabrics: Silk and other synthetic materials are likely to cause rash — select soft smooth and permeable cotton.
If there are habits that lead to moments of stress, the best approach should be to avoid them wherever possible. For example, if dust mites bring the problem, try using hues free bedding and washing the sheets often with hot water.
3. Use Medicated Treatments
When eczema symptoms become severe, over-the-counter or prescription medications may be necessary. Topical corticosteroids are often prescribed to reduce inflammation and itching during flare-ups. These should be used as directed by your Dermatologist in Karachi, as overuse can lead to thinning of the skin.
In addition to corticosteroids, other topical treatments like calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., tacrolimus and pimecrolimus) can be effective, particularly for sensitive areas like the face and eyelids. For some individuals, systemic treatments such as oral corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, or biologics may be recommended to control more severe cases of eczema.
4. Skincare Routine:
When suffering from eczema, one has to be very careful with the products used on the skin, especially while washing the face. Do not take hot showers or baths since these cause the skin to lose its natural oils, resulting in dryness and itching. It is also recommended to take warm water and the duration of taking the bath should not exceed 10-15 minutes.
Be gentle and avoid using alcohol when cleansing your skin; you can also avoid soap because it has fragrances; when drying the skin, avoid rubbing it because it can cause irritation, instead use a towel and blot the skin gently. Finally, moisturize right after you have dried up your skin to avoid the escape of the moisture you are trying to impart on your skin. If you are among the numerous people facing the problem of eczema, you should add a topical treatment as prescribed by your dermatologist.
5. Manage Stress
Indeed, stress is amongst the major factors that can cause eczema flare-ups, and controlling stress can therefore have a big impact on your eczema. Prescribing preventive measures that could include stress relieving exercises should be done with a view of avoiding outbreaks. Measures like deep breathing, meditation or yoga or even if a person decides to spend more time in their favorite pastime, will work wonders.
Exercise is another factor which needs to be controlled since it assists in controlling stress levels and total health. However if you find that sweat aggravates your eczema ensure that you bathe as soon as you are done exercising and apply some cream.
6. Consider Phototherapy
For people with moderate to severe eczema that is unresponsive to topical therapies, phototherapy may be used. Phototherapy is the management of the skin with the help of exposure to natural or artificial light in order to minimize inflammations and alleviate its manifestations. It is delivered as a treatment in a dermatologist’s office and several sessions are needed to obtain the desired effects.
7. Seek Professional Guidance
If the eczema is chronic or has a major effect on the patient’s lifestyle, then it is advisable to seek the help of a dermatologist. They can give you a program of care that will help you with your condition and this may include topical application that is management, drug therapy and modification of your lifestyle.
A Best Skin Specialist in Lahore can also help you explore new treatment options, such as biologic therapies or newer topical medications that are designed to target the underlying causes of eczema more effectively.