Maintenance starts with moisturizing

Exploring eczema is what we do. And you’ve probably explored plenty of ways to manage eczema yourself. Take our advice: Talk to your doctor to start designing a routine that works for you.

Start your eczema routine. Follow your eczema routine.

A sense of control is the goal for many people—and it’s still crucial to take daily steps to keep your skin healthy and strong. That often starts with developing an eczema skin care routine.

Many routines involve consistent moisturizing, which can help hydrate the skin, reduce itch and inflammation, and even calm the severity of symptoms.

Eczema tips for healthier skin

Remember, these may be used in combination with the treatment plan as determined by your doctor, so make sure to talk to them before trying anything new.

And now, on to the tips:

Moisturize: Moisturize your skin frequently and right after bathing to strengthen the barrier your skin creates, increase hydration, and lessen or prevent symptoms.
Choose fragrance-free: Look for fragrance-free products (moisturizers, detergents, soaps, and cleansers) that are free of additives and dyes since these can be irritating to those with eczema and/or worsen eczema rash.
Track your triggers: Keep track of your triggers (pollen, food, fabrics, etc.) and do your best to avoid them.
Routinely check your eczema for signs of infection (oozing, yellow crust, yellowish-white spots, swollen and sore skin, or feeling hot and shivery) and if you see signs of infection, talk to your doctor immediately to prevent it from becoming serious.

Eczema is personal—each person experiences different symptoms at different times. You've likely tried many different things as part of your routine, but it's best to keep working with your doctor to find the most appropriate routine that works for you.

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Managing your triggers is just part of the equation

For many people, trigger management is an important part of eczema management. Common examples of triggers people try to manage are dry skin, stress, food, soaps, fabrics, and other irritants. While the cause of eczema is not completely understood, triggers are one piece of the puzzle—and avoiding them may reduce flare-ups but may not get rid of your eczema.

Not a fad diet, an anti-inflammatory diet

While food does not cause eczema, food allergies and food triggers are still common concerns when it comes to eczema maintenance. It can be helpful to know how your diet may influence the inflammation associated with flare-ups.

Talk to your doctor before making any changes to your diet.

TIPS FROM HQ: Following these 5 anti-inflammatory food tips can contribute to a healthy lifestyle and may help reduce inflammation:

Eat more whole fruits and vegetables, which are a good source of antioxidants
Avoid sugar and processed foods
Avoid fried foods and food rich in trans fats because they promote inflammation
Seek out more foods with omega-3 fats, like salmon or walnuts, which can help reduce inflammation
Avoid any unnecessary food restrictions that may reduce your quality of life, and discuss any changes to your diet with your doctor first because the need for such changes may help them determine appropriate treatment options