I have mild hand eczema that used to drive me crazy every winter. So much so that I used to avoid going outside completely because I knew my hands would be happier if I didn’t. Now that I finally know these tips and tricks to help it is much less of a problem and I can go out and enjoy the snow! Let’s first determine if you have eczema, and then if so what you can do at home to help.
Eczema is chronic dry itchy skin more commonly in areas of skin folds such as the bend of the elbows or backs of the knees however people with eczema can get it anywhere including their faces! While there is no cure for eczema there are smart skincare routines someone with eczema can be doing daily at home. Something to note is that it normally worsens with colder weather or stress. So obviously you should quit your job and move to Hawaii, right? Just kidding. Although it would probably help… So, do you think you have eczema? If you do, or you know someone with eczema then this article can help. Let’s dive in!
What you should NOT be doing
Scratching. Okay, I know this one is easier said than done but truly I mean it, STOP. Eczema is sometimes called the itch that rashes meaning you could take completely normal skin, itch it, and cause a rash to appear. A few tricks for this is to make sure your nails are cut short. Also if you get hand eczema you can apply a moisturizer at night and then sleep in white cotton gloves. This will help moisturize the skin and prevent itching while sleeping.
Scented products. This one is huge. Do you know that bath and body work cream that you love? Nope. Toss it, or give it to a sibling. If you are eczema prone you need to stay away from scented products. This includes perfume ladies!
Hot showers. I know they feel good when you’re in but have you ever noticed your skin is itchier after a hot shower? That’s because the hot water dries our skin out more. You should be aiming for lukewarm and make sure when you get out you are moisturizing when your skin is still damp!
What you SHOULD be doing
Moisturizing! This should be obvious. When you have dry skin, you want to put moisture back into it. I recommend my eczema patients aim to moisturize at the very least twice a day. As I mentioned above, moisturizing as soon as you get out of the shower while your skin is still damp is a perfect time to lather on that cream. And yes it should be cream or even more ideally ointment. The lotion is better than nothing but the thicker the better! My personal favorites are CeraVe cream, Cetaphil cream, or Vanicream for people with sensitive skin.
Related: What is Slugging, and Is it Right for Your Skin?
Hypoallergenic products. This goes hand-in-hand with the fact that you should avoid scented products. When I say use hypoallergenic products I’m talking everything. Are you using Tide laundry detergent? Go check and make sure it says “free and clear” or “hypoallergenic”. If it doesn’t then it’s time for a change.
Antihistamines. This one is not for everyone but it can sometimes help when you are particularly itchy. I generally recommend over-the-counter Zyrtec every morning for my eczema patients who also have seasonal allergies. An alternative would be Allegra. What about Benadryl to help sleep at night you ask? Well, if your itching is keeping you awake at night it’s probably time to go see a medical provider in person.
Bleach baths. Bleach baths can be extremely therapeutic if done correctly. The American Academy of Dermatology even recommends it for babies! You can find their exact recommendation here. make sure you follow it correctly and if there are any questions then be sure to ask your healthcare provider.
There you have it! These are easy tips and tricks you can apply to your routine at home if you have eczema. Do you have eczema and have found something else that works for you? Comment below, I love learning what works best for different people!
*Disclaimer: Opinions expressed are solely my own and do not express the views or opinions of my employer. Information on this website is for education and entertainment purposes only. Content is my opinion. It is not substituted for your own doctor’s medical care or advice. One should not make any health or medical-related decisions based in whole or in part on any content on this site. Content is not intended to replace the services of a licensed, trained health professional. Content may not apply to you as an individual. Although I will update my website with current information, this website is not a definitive guide to dermatology.
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