3 ways To Treat Eczema

Atopic dermatitis, more commonly known as eczema, is a skin condition characterised by itchy, dry skin that is often cracked and painful. For some people, eczema might only occur in small, isolated areas, while others might have large sections of their body affected.

While there is no cure for eczema, there are a number of measures you can take and treatments available that can be used to alleviate the symptoms. We’ve put together a guide with some of the best ways you can treat eczema. Keep reading to check it out.

What Causes Eczema?

Knowing what actually causes eczema is key to understanding how best to treat it. Eczema is a condition which impacts the skin’s ability to retain moisture. This can lead to skin becoming dry, itchy, and painful, and makes it sensitive to external irritants.

Eczema can affect anyone, but it is particularly prevalent among infants and young children. Some people might find their eczema dissipates as they age, while others could suffer from a long-term, chronic form of the condition.

There are a number of triggers that can cause eczema to flare-up. These differ from person to person, but commonly include soaps and detergents, allergens such as pollen or pet hair, and hormonal changes.

Creams And Ointments

Using special creams and ointments can be an effective way to reduce the symptoms associated with an eczema flare-up. Betnovate cream contains corticosteroid betamethasone, which can be applied to afflicted areas to reduce inflammation and itching.

It works by targeting skin cells and reducing their ability to produce chemicals that cause inflammation. The product comes as a cream which can be used for weeping areas of skin, as well as a thicker ointment which is more suitable for scaly, dry areas.

Avoid Triggers

Eczema can lay dormant and be relatively unnoticeable until a trigger causes a flare-up. One of the best ways to avoid this happening is to make efforts to avoid coming into contact with these triggers.

Triggers will differ from person to person, so identifying which cause your eczema to flare-up can be a process of trial and error. Once you have correctly identified your particular triggers, you should take steps to reduce your contact with them.

Avoid Scratching

Eczema can be incredibly itchy. Often, the temptation to scratch is too great to resist. However, scratching can make your eczema worse, and can turn affected areas into unsightly, scaly patches. What’s more, excessive scratching can cause cuts to form which can lead to infection.

You should strive to resist the temptation to scratch. Instead, try lightly rubbing the itchy areas with your fingertips, and keep your skin covered with clothes to protect it. Keeping your nails short can help prevent your skin from being cut from scratching.

Conclusion

Eczema can be an incredibly uncomfortable and often debilitating condition. Not only is it painful, but it can also affect a sufferer’s looks and have a significant impact on their mental and emotional health. Follow this guide to treat your eczema and prevent any future flare-ups.