ABOUT ECZEMA
Managing Eczema
Practical strategies and advice to help soothe flare-ups, avoid triggers, and take control of your eczema.
Managing eczema can feel like an ongoing battle, affecting not just your skin, but your daily life and overall well-being. The constant need to soothe flare-ups and avoid triggers can be frustrating and exhausting.
We’re here to help make that journey a little easier. On this page, you’ll find practical tips and advice to manage your eczema day-to-day, understand your triggers, and discover treatments that work for you. With the right approach and support, you can take steps toward healthier, more comfortable skin.
Diagnosing Eczema
Diagnosing eczema can be frustrating, as it presents differently in each person. Many people go through trial and error before getting a clear diagnosis. If you’ve been dealing with persistent skin issues, it’s important to seek guidance from a healthcare professional. Here are some common methods used to diagnose eczema: Here are some common methods used to diagnose eczema:
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Medical history review – Your doctor will discuss your personal and family history of eczema, allergies, or other related conditions.
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Symptom evaluation – A detailed assessment of your symptoms, including when flare-ups occur and what triggers them.
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Physical examination – A visual inspection of your skin for common signs of eczema, such as redness, dryness, or inflammation.
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Allergy testing – Tests to identify any allergens that could be triggering or worsening your eczema symptoms.
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Patch testing – A method to determine if specific substances cause skin reactions, which may contribute to your eczema.
- Skin biopsy – A small sample of skin is taken to rule out other skin conditions and confirm a diagnosis of eczema.
While the journey to an eczema diagnosis can feel frustrating and overwhelming, getting the right diagnosis is an essential step in managing your condition and finding relief.
Types of Treatment
Gentle, fragrance-free cleansers are essential for managing eczema, as harsh soaps can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.
Using a mild cleanser helps maintain the skin's moisture barrier while keeping it clean. Look for products specifically formulated for sensitive or eczema-prone skin to reduce the risk of flare-ups.
Moisturisers play a crucial role in treating eczema by helping to lock in moisture and strengthen the skin’s protective barrier. Applying a thick, fragrance-free moisturiser regularly, especially after bathing, helps soothe dry, itchy skin and prevent flare-ups. Choose products with ingredients like colloidal oatmeal, shea butter, or glycerin to keep the skin hydrated.
Topical steroids are commonly prescribed to reduce inflammation and relieve itching during eczema flare-ups. These creams or ointments vary in strength and are applied directly to affected areas.
While effective in controlling symptoms, they should be used under medical supervision to avoid potential side effects from long-term use.
Wet wrapping involves applying a layer of damp bandages or clothing over moisturised skin to lock in hydration and reduce inflammation.
This technique is particularly useful for severe flare-ups, helping to soothe the skin and improve absorption of treatments like topical steroids. Wet wrapping can provide quick relief for those with intense itching or discomfort.
Some people find relief from eczema symptoms using natural therapies, such as aloe vera, coconut oil, or chamomile.
While these treatments can help soothe the skin and reduce irritation, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before trying them.
Not all natural remedies are safe for every individual, and some may trigger allergies.
Immunosuppressant creams, like calcineurin inhibitors, are used to treat eczema by reducing the immune system’s overactivity that leads to flare-ups.
These creams are generally used when topical steroids aren’t effective or are unsuitable for long-term use. They can help control inflammation and itching while being less harsh on the skin.
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support gut health, and recent research suggests they may help manage eczema.
By balancing the gut microbiome, probiotics may reduce inflammation and support overall skin health. They can be taken as supplements or found in certain fermented foods like yogurt and kefir, but it's best to discuss their use with a healthcare provider.
FREE ECZEMA DIARY
Track your eczema and take control with your free eczema diary
Our free Eczema Diary helps you track symptoms, identify triggers, and manage flare-ups with ease. Gain insights into what affects your eczema and take control of your skin’s health.
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Lifestyle adjustments
Making simple lifestyle adjustments can play a key role in managing eczema and reducing flare-ups. Small changes in your daily routine can have a big impact on the health of your skin and overall well-being.
- Stress management: Emotional stress can trigger or worsen eczema. Techniques like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises can help manage stress and keep flare-ups at bay.
- Sleep hygiene: A good night’s rest supports skin health and gives your body time to heal. Establishing a consistent sleep routine and keeping your environment cool and comfortable can help prevent eczema from disrupting your sleep.
- Dietary choices: Eating a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, like fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, can support healthy skin. Some people find that avoiding certain food triggers, like dairy or gluten, helps manage their eczema.
- Hydration: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day keeps your skin hydrated and helps it maintain its natural barrier.
- Environmental control: Reducing allergens and irritants in your home, such as using a humidifier, opting for fragrance-free products, and keeping your living space clean, can prevent flare-ups.
These lifestyle changes can help you better manage eczema, improving both your skin’s condition and your overall quality of life.
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