General Skin Care Tips for people with eczema

• Avoid exfoliating treatments as this may irritate the skin.
• Use cotton lined water proof gloves when immersing your hands in water.
• Wear plain cotton gloves when doing household chores like dusting and cleaning.
• Shower or bath in lukewarm water rather than hot water.
• Avoid vigorous drying after showering. Dabbing with a soft towel is best.
• Wear cotton clothing in preference to synthetic or woolen’s as these will irritate the skin.
• Avoid tight restricting clothes which will make your skin hot and sweaty.
• Wash new clothing before wearing to remove irritating dyes.
• Do not allow your body to overheat and sweat.
• Avoid central heating which will dry out the air and lead to dry skin.
• Avoid extreme cold conditions which will also irritate the skin.
• Avoid known personal conditions which are known to trigger your eczema.
• Avoid cosmetics and perfumes.
• Avoid prolonged submersion in water as this will strip the skin of its natural oils.
• Look for skin care products which are marketed as hypoallergenic.

Mel Sinclair, RN