Eczema is a skin condition with dry, itchy, inflamed skin where millions of people suffer worldwide. It’s challenging to manage eczema but one of the effective and common strategies is with moisturizer. Skin hydration plays a crucial role in eczema or else the skin alleviates with discomfort with dry skin. Let us explore how moisturizers can help manage eczema by soothing dry skin and other important skin products to use.
Understanding Eczema and Its Symptoms
- Eczema or atopic dermatitis can start from childhood but persist in adulthood or in some people it can develop in later stages of life. Some of its symptoms include -
- Dry, itchy patches – Skin becomes dry and feels rough.
- Red or brownish-gray patches – These patches are visible on the hands, feet, ankles, wrists, neck, upper chest, eyelids, inside the bend of elbows and behind the knees.
- Thickened, cracked skin – People suffer with chronic scratching that leads to thicker skin areas.
- Small, raised bumps – When we scratch these areas, fluids may leak.
Determining the cause of eczema is quite difficult, it’s a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors. When we possess a weak skin barrier, it allows moisture to escape from the skin and irritants enter leading to skin dryness and inflammation.
The Importance of Moisturizers in Eczema Management
Moisturizers play a crucial role in managing eczema by soothing the dry skin for several reasons.
Restoring the Skin Barrier
Foremost function of a moisturizer is to keep the skin hydrated and repair the skin barrier. Eczema is associated with a compromised skin barrier, making the skin susceptible to external irritants and allergens. Applying the moisturizer can restore the skin barrier by retaining the moisture and irritants out.
Reducing Itchiness
Skin dryness causes itchiness. When moisturizer is applied, it acts as a protective layer, locks the moisturizer and minimizes itchiness. Well hydrated skin is often less prone to itchiness and the urge to scratch reduces and the skin condition is stable.
Preventing Flare-Ups
Applying the moisturizer regularly can prevent triggering flare-ups and the skin remains hydrated with less prone to irritation. This helps during dry or cold weather conditions.
Choosing the Right Moisturizer
Not all moisturizers are soothing to treat eczema. Consider the following points when choosing moisturizers with eczema
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Ingredients
Do check for products containing emollients like shea butter, glycerin or lanolin and occlusives like petrolatum or dimethicone, humectants like hyaluronic acid. These ingredients lock in moisture and provide long lasting hydration to the skin.
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Fragrance-Free
To reduce the risk of skin irritation after applying moisturizer, choose fragrance free formulations. Eczema symptoms exacerbate with fragrances in many individuals.
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Hypoallergenic Options
Choose hypoallergenic products as these are formulated for sensitive skin and contain fewer irritating ingredients.
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Thickness and Texture
It is observed that thicker creams and ointments are more effective than lighter lotions for eczema as they act as strong skin barrier with long lasting skin hydration.
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pH-Balanced
Certain products are formulated to maintain skin’s natural pH balance that reduces irritation and maintain skin health.
Best Practices for Moisturizing
To get optimal benefits from moisturizer for eczema and dry skin follow these simple tips
Moisturize Immediately After Bathing
Its always recommended to apply moisturizer immediately after shower or washing your hands, as it helps to lock the moisturizer.
Reapply Throughout the Day
Reapply the moisturizer multiple times a day after washing hands or exposure to water as moisturizer is washed off.
Use a Consistent Routine
Start a skincare routine that includes moisturizer consistently to manage eczema.
Avoid Irritants
Choose moisturizers that do not have irritants as they can aggravate eczema. It is better to avoid detergents and fabrics.
Consider Specialized Formulations
Brands have designed products specifically for eczema prone skin that give relief and add benefits to them.
Conclusion
It requires a multifaceted approach to treat or manage eczema. Moisturizers form one of the essential components in the effective treatment of eczema. Restoring skin barrier strength can lower skin itchiness, prevent flare-ups and improve the quality of skin health for people suffering from eczema. Be cautious when you choose the moisturizer and other skincare products. Pick fragrance free products and follow consistent skincare routine. Making the right choice of products and taking care can help soothe the skin with eczema and lead a healthy and comfortable skin.
