Treatment Options

Helping Yourself

Individuals with eczema generally should try to avoid potential irritants and triggers and use moisturizers year-round to hydrate the skin. Other ways you can limit or avoid eczema outbreaks include the following:

• Avoid scratching or picking at the affected area, which could aggravate your condition or even cause new lesions to form.
• Limit exposure to the sun and the use of sunscreen, both of which can contribute to eczema outbreaks.
• Avoid stressful situations as much as possible.
• When selecting clothing, choose clothing made of softer fabrics like cotton rather than stiff fibers like wool. In addition, avoid tight, occlusive clothing like leather. By allowing the skin to "breathe" less sweat will accumulate.
• Avoid soaking in the bathtub, and use lukewarm water when bathing. Use moisturizing soaps for bathing and apply moisturizing creams or lotions immediately afterward.
• Clean furniture and wash bedding regularly to get rid of dust mites and pet dander, both of which are associated with eczema.
• Choose dye-free, fragrance-free skin products which are more appropriate for sensitive skin.

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Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not intended to diagnose a health condition, but it can be used as a guide to help you decide if you should seek professional treatment or to help you learn more about your condition once it has been diagnosed.