| WINTER
CARE: |
- Remember that heated indoor settings
can result in low humidity levels—a major cause of dry skin.
- Cover more of your skin to stay warm.
Dress in layers, but avoid irritating fabrics, such as wool
and some synthetics.
|
| SUMMER
CARE: |
- Remember that hot, dry climates with
low humidity levels can result in dry skin.
- Dress in light, loose-fitting clothing
of natural fabrics such as cotton to keep cool and minimize
itching due to perspiration.
|
| BATHING: |
- Bathe in warm water—never HOT—to
hydrate the skin and soothe discomfort.
- Remember to observe the “Three Minute
Rule”: apply moisturizer within three minutes after
bathing—before water evaporates—to keep the skin smooth
and flexible. Note: Topical steroids and moisturizers
are more effective if applied while the skin is damp.
- CAUTION: Bathing that is not
followed by immediate moisturizing dries the skin and worsens
eczema. Stick to your usual moisturizing plan, even when
hectic schedules or inclement weather intrude on your daily
routine.
|
| MOISTURIZERS: |
- Moisturizing is the best protection
against eczema. Discuss a regimen of dry skin management with
your healthcare provider.
- Understand the range of moisturizer
choices, and identify an appropriate product for you: 1)
For extreme dryness, including ichthyosis, choose grease-based
products such as petroleum jelly or vegetable shortening. 2)
For moderate eczema and scaling, choose creams such as white,
non liquid formulations. 3) For ordinary, noninflamed
dry skin, choose lotions or oils.
- Moisturizing should be repeated as
often as necessary to keep the skin soft throughout the day.
- Bath oils may help mild dryness but one
should never use these as a substitute for the moisturizing
benefits of applied creams, ointments, or greases.
|
| RELAXATION: |
- Take time to relax. Higher stress
levels triggered by social and work-related events often lead
to flare-ups.
|
*Adapted from Jon M. Hanifin, MD.
For additional information about eczema or atopic
dermatitis, please contact NEASE at 800.818.SKIN
or visit the web site at www.nationaleczema.org.
|