Dealing with Eczema

Eczema is the itching, scaling, swelling, redness, and sometimes the combination thereof, of the skin. It can be painful and embarrassing. But, with some help, you can manage it and not let it overpower you.

In severe cases, yellow or red pustules or pimples may appear on the skin, especially around the nose, chest, and ears.
It can be triggered by an allergic reaction, hormone fluctuations, severe stress, and a variety of other uncertain factors.
Eczema, sometimes also referred to as dermatitis, can be embarrassing, painful, and frustrating for the afflicted.

Luckily, there are a few things one with eczema can do in order to control their symptoms, without or in combination with a prescribed medicine. Note, however, that in dealing with eczema, consultation with a medical professional is always recommended.

Try to avoid household cleansers, aftershave, and gasoline, among other strongly-scented liquids; there's a good chance they contain irritants.

Cold, dry air can cause eczema to act up. If possible, monitor humidity and heat as much as possible. Avoid sweating whenever you can, because sweat can greatly increase the effects of eczema, especially in teenage years, when one's skin is already prone to acne and skin problems anyway.
If you work out, try to do so in a cool room, preferably one with the fan. Stagnant, sticky air is not good on eczema, though humidity in moderation is. One solution could be to sleep with a humidifier on a low setting.

If possible, avoid synthetic fabrics such as modal rayon, polyester, nylon, etc., in favor of more natural fabrics, such as cotton or hemp. Caution, though; wool can, in some cases, irritate eczema as much or more than synthetic fabrics.

In addition, use moisturizers. Furthermore, use plain, unscented, ordinary moisturizers. One of the best is simple petroleum jelly (ala Vaseline or similar products). Be sure to use them especially in the winter, when the air is dry and cool. Added fragrances can irritate eczema, as can artificial dyes (sometimes natural dyes, too, for that matter.).

Eczema can flare up when you are stressed--all the more reason to take up yoga or something relaxing like that. Eczema, like many other conditions, can be affected by stress, attitude, and outlook.

If you have eczema, or think you do, be sure and get to the doctor so you can get more help and/or a professional cure, like a creme or pill. New treatments are being developed all the time for skin conditions such as eczema, many of which are safe, affordable, and highly effective.