What is eczema?
Eczema is inflammation of the skin. Your skin is usually dry, very itchy and you will notice patches of skin all over your body which you will want to scratch uncontrollably.
When does eczema occur?
It can first develop during childhood, during adolescence or even as an adult.
What causes eczema?
It is genetic so you inherit it from your family. It is also worsened by environmental factors
What are triggers for eczema and how can you avoid them?
Dry air in extremely overheated apartments. Use a humidifier Certain metals like nickel that are found in certain jewelry or even in the snaps on your jeans. Look for surgical stainless steel.
Fragrance that can be found in any product. Choose fragrance free products.
Fabric softeners. Use alpaca balls after the wash.
Certain fabrics which are irritating like wool. Choose cotton under your sweater.
Certain laundry detergents. Choose dye free ones for sensitive skin.
Soaps and deodorant soaps.
Use mild super hydrating soaps and body wash for sensitive skin.
What treatments are available?
- Moisturizers with ceramides to repair the barrier
- Oatmeal baths
- Bleach baths
- Shorter showers with warm water instead of hot
- Prescription topical medication
- Antihistamines to help with itching
- Injectable monoclonal antibodies
- New topical JAK inhibitor creams
- Light therapy