Eczema - Any pointers?

Question

Does anyone have any tips on what to use to treat eczema? I just started to get it on my arms this year - and I am 27! Is this normal? What causes it?

Answer 1

I have found that my eczema gets worse in the wintertime...When I'm out in the sun, and regularly using moisturizer, it's much better.

I also have some cream from my doctor (can't think of what it's called now, and I'm not near it, or I'd look), that pretty much makes it go away with a couple of applications, but it pretty much always comes back, after a week or so.

Try not to scratch!!! I have found that this makes it much worse, even though it feels really good!

Here's a link with more info...I definitely recommend seeing a doctor, to (a) be sure that it really is eczema, and (b) get the best medication possible.

Answer 2

I don't think anyone knows what causes it for sure. Could be genetics. I've had it since I was a kid (off and on). You are now stuck with it the rest of your life. Great huh? Now you just need to learn how to get it under control. The person who answered above me offered some great pointers. Some things that I do are not using expensive detergents (like Tide or anything with a lot of fragrances, etc.), do not use dryer sheets, use a mild soap for bathing and don't use hot water, moisturize after every bath. A great moisturizer I found that works wonders is called Dermarest for Eczema. It clears it right up in just a couple of days. You can find it at K-mart. Oh and don't scratch, you'll just spread it around even more. Hope this helps!

Answer 3

I have eczema. it started last year when I was 26. Mine is on my hands and in my ears (weird right!) I suggest a dermotolgist visit to start. See if you can get a perscrition for Elidel cream. It is a steriod free topical cream that really helps.

The National Institutes of Health estimates that 15 million people in the United States have some form of eczema. Eczema outbreaks can usually be avoided with some simple precautions. The following suggestions may help to reduce the severity and frequency of flare-ups:

Moisturize frequently

Avoid sudden changes in temperature or humidity

Avoid sweating or overheating

Reduce stress

Avoid scratchy materials (e.g., wool or other irritants)

Avoid harsh soaps, detergents, and solvents

Avoid environmental factors that trigger allergies (e.g., pollens, molds, mites, and animal dander)

Be aware of any foods that may cause an outbreak and avoid those foods

Answer 4

You should make a dermatologist appointment because eczema can be treating in different ways and are different types. Steps into taking care of eczema:
STEP 1: Eliminate allergens. Eczema may be caused by an allergy. Common culprits are products that your skin is in contact with, such as creams, perfumes, laundry detergent, and so on. STEP 2: Check your diet. Food allergies can also trigger eczema, especially in children. Common culprits are milk, wheat, citrus fruits, eggs, peanuts and fish. STEP 3: Wear cotton and other natural fiber clothing. This allows your skin to breathe better. STEP 4: Use bland moisturizers without dyes and perfumes. Make sure to use a moisturizer every time you bathe. Choose a greasy formula to moisturize skin if eczema is severe and skin is extremely dry. Examples are petroleum jelly or vegetable shortening. STEP 5: Set up a humidifier if the air in your house is very dry. Avoid sunbathing. This can aggravate your skin. Heat can also cause your condition to worsen. STEP 6: Scrutinize your bath products. Bath oils are generally fine and lubricating, but bubble baths can be drying and irritating. STEP 7: Destress. Find and use methods to help yourself relax. Stress can cause eczema flare-ups. STEP 8: Use the herbs dandelion, myrrh, pau d'arco and red clover. Use as a tea or take in capsule form. They are useful for healthy skin. Use all of them alternately for best results. STEP 9: Make a paste from the herb goldenseal and vitamin E oil. Use goldenseal in a powdered form, and mix with a little bit of vitamin E oil; add a small amount of honey and make a paste. Apply to inflamed area. STEP 10: Take vitamin A, 10,000 to 25,000 IU per day. It helps to soften the skin. Take it in the emulsion form, which is easier to absorb and safer at high doses. STEP 11: Use a high-potency B-complex formula, 50 to 100 mg per day. It is needed for healthy skin and good blood circulation. Some skin problems are linked to a deficiency of vitamin B-6. STEP 12: Take vitamin E, 400 IU. It helps relieve itching and dry skin. STEP 13: Try evening primrose, black currant, flaxseed or salmon oil. Use according to bottle directions. They all contain essential fatty acids, which help to lubricate the skin.

Good luck!