Eczema Management: How to Treat and Prevent Flare-Ups
About 31.6 million Americans have eczema, a chronic skin disease. Most people develop this condition in childhood, but some may notice the first symptoms later in life.
Researchers don’t know exactly what causes this disorder. Genetics, endocrine disorders, and certain environmental factors all seem to play a role. Certain diseases, especially those affecting the immune system, may increase the risk of eczema.
Treatment options depend on the cause. Generally, eczema management involves a combination of drugs, phototherapy, and lifestyle changes. For example, you may need to apply moisturizers daily and avoid common triggers, such as stress and allergens.
Your doctor is the only one who can recommend an appropriate treatment. Meanwhile, there are steps you can take to manage your symptoms and prevent flare-ups. For starters, try the strategies below.
Identify the Triggers
The first thing you need to do is to figure out what triggers your flare-ups. Common offenders include:
- Air fresheners and household products, such as detergents
- Cigarette smoke
- Synthetic fabrics
- Hot water
- Sunscreen
- Exposure to sunlight
- Soaps and shampoos
- Mental and physical stress
- Pollen, dust mites, and other allergens
- Certain foods, especially soy, eggs, wheat, and dairy
- Dry air
- Excessive sweating
Mineral sunscreen, for example, might be safer than regular sunscreen. Generally, fragrance-free soaps and other skincare products are better tolerated than their conventional counterparts.
Any of the factors listed above can trigger flare-ups. When that happens, it’s important to use the best cream for eczema itching. Ideally, choose one that contains no fragrances, sodium lauryl sulfate, lanolin, or parabens.
Avoid Mental and Physical Stress
Both mental and physical stress can cause eczema flare-ups and take a toll on your skin. Psychological stress increases inflammation, leading to itchy skin and other symptoms. In the long run, it can worsen your condition and affect overall health.
If you’re constantly stressed, try to squeeze more “me” time into your routine. Aim for at least eight hours of sleep per night and commit to regular exercise.
Yoga, deep breathing, meditation, and physical activity can all reduce stress—just make sure you don’t go overboard. Pushing yourself too hard in the gym can raise the stress hormone cortisol levels and lead to flare-ups.
Try Natural Remedies for Eczema
Look for eczema creams, ointments, and herbal supplements made with natural or organic ingredients. Aloe vera, tea tree oil, colloidal oatmeal, and coconut oil are particularly beneficial.
For example, colloidal oatmeal has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. When used topically, it moisturizes the skin and may soothe irritation. In some cases, it can relieve itching as well.
Similarly, coconut oil protects your skin and reduces inflammation. Due to its soothing effect on irritated skin, it may help with eczema management.
What you eat matters, too.
As a rule of thumb, avoid sugar, trans fats, wheat, milk, and other inflammatory foods. Fill up on avocado, fatty fish, vegetables, and herbs or spices that fight inflammation. Turmeric, ginger, garlic, cinnamon, and rosemary are all excellent choices.
Eczema Management Requires a Personalized Approach
Eczema management is different for each individual. It may take some trial and error to find the best approach, depending on the cause of your condition.
Start by implementing the strategies described above. In the meantime, keep in touch with your doctor and follow his recommendations. If your symptoms persist, you may need to take antibiotics, corticosteroid pills, or other prescription drugs.
Remember to check out the rest of our blog for other tips on how to look and feel your best. See our Health section for more information on skincare, nutrition, exercise, and everything in between!
