What Is Eczema & Why Does It Occur?
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that leads to dry, inflamed, and itchy skin. It can affect people of all ages but is most common in infants and young children. The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but it is believed to be linked to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Eczema is not contagious, but it can significantly impact daily life, causing discomfort and affecting sleep and self-confidence.
Common Triggers for Eczema Flare-Ups:
- Irritants: Soaps, detergents, fragrances, and certain fabrics.
- Allergens: Pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold.
- Weather Conditions: Cold, dry air or excessive heat and humidity.
- Stress & Emotional Factors: Anxiety and stress can worsen symptoms.
- Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy and menstruation can trigger flare-ups.
- Food Allergies: Dairy, eggs, nuts, and soy may worsen symptoms in some individuals.
Who Needs Eczema Treatment?
Eczema treatment is essential for individuals who:
- Experience persistent itching and dryness.
- Have inflamed, red, or cracked skin.
- Suffer from severe flare-ups affecting daily life.
- Develop infections due to scratching or open skin wounds.
- Want to reduce symptoms and prevent future flare-ups.
Best Ways to Treat Eczema
Managing eczema involves a combination of skincare, medications, and lifestyle changes to reduce symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
Topical Corticosteroids for Eczema Relief:
- Mild corticosteroids: Help control mild eczema flare-ups (Hydrocortisone, Dermacort, Mildison Lipocream).
- Moderate to strong corticosteroids: Used for more severe cases (Betnovate, Elocon, Eumovate, Clobetasone Butyrate).
- Very strong corticosteroids: For severe eczema resistant to other treatments (Clobetasol, Dermovate, Diprosone, Metosyn).
Non-Steroidal Eczema Treatments:
- Calcineurin inhibitors: Reduce inflammation without steroids (Protopic, Elidel).
- Moisturizers & emollients: Help hydrate and protect the skin (Diprobase, Atopicann Hemp Cream, Excipial U Lipolotio). Petrolatum-based emollients (e.g., Vaseline) are often first-line due to their strong barrier-protecting properties.
- Antibiotic creams: Treat infected eczema (Fucidin, Timodine).
Lifestyle & Home Remedies:
- Use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic skincare products.
- Take lukewarm baths and apply moisturizer immediately after.
- Wear soft, breathable fabrics like cotton.
- Avoid scratching by keeping nails short or wearing gloves at night.
- Use humidifiers to keep the skin hydrated in dry climates.
How to Prevent Eczema Flare-Ups
Although eczema cannot be cured, preventive measures can help reduce outbreaks:
- Avoid known triggers such as harsh detergents, allergens, and stress.
- Maintain a consistent skincare routine with regular moisturizing.
- Identify food triggers and adjust your diet accordingly.
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation.
- Use prescribed medications as directed to control symptoms effectively.
