Living with eczema poses certain challenges. Not only are flareups incredibly uncomfortable because of the itching, but they can also cause considerable embarrassment. Thankfully, there are ways to control even the worst flareups so you don't feel the need to go into hiding every time they occur. 

Do:

Moisturize your skin. 

Keeping your skin clean and hydrated will prevent excessive flakiness. Shower at least once a day using gentle cleaners and warm water (hot water can dry out the skin) and put on an unscented, oil-free moisturizer after drying off. You should also drink plenty of water to facilitate hydration from the inside out. 

Bandage the affected area. 

If certain areas are especially dry and flaky, apply a medicated rash cream before bandaging them up. This will allow your skin to absorb the cream and prevent you from irritating the affected area further by scratching it. 

Don’t:

Keep scratching. 

Eczema flareups compromise the skin’s natural protective barrier, which is responsible for keeping bacteria and viruses at bay. Scratching removes additional layers of this barrier, making the skin even more vulnerable to infection, including staph and herpes. Signs of a skin infection include areas that are warm to the touch, redness, tenderness, pustules, cold sores, and blisters. 

Apply harsh chemicals. 

Applying makeup, aftershave, or other skincare products over eczema can irritate vulnerable skin. Avoid products that contain fragrances or preservatives such as methylparaben or butylparaben, which can contribute to inflammation. Other ingredients that worsen flareups include glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and retinol because they dry out the skin. Shea butter, glycerin, and vitamin B3, on the other hand, can soothe skin and help restore its moisture barrier, so products containing them may be flareup friendly.

If you need rash cream for eczema flareups, head to Columbia Hickory Pharmacy in Howard County, MD. This local business is part of the CARE Pharmacies Cooperative group, which means they provide the personalized attention of a small pharmacy, but they have the resources of a national chain. From repairing medical equipment to administering vaccines, they do it all. To see how they can meet your family’s needs, visit their website or call (410) 964-6409.