ABOUT ECZEMA
Managing Eczema
Practical strategies and advice to help soothe flare-ups, avoid triggers, and take control of your eczema.
Managing eczema can feel like an ongoing battle, affecting not just your skin, but your daily life and overall well-being. The constant need to soothe flare-ups and avoid triggers can be frustrating and exhausting.
We’re here to help make that journey a little easier. On this page, you’ll find practical tips and advice to manage your eczema day-to-day, understand your triggers, and discover treatments that work for you. With the right approach and support, you can take steps toward healthier, more comfortable skin.
Managing eczema
Diagnosing Eczema
Diagnosing eczema can be frustrating, as it presents differently in each person. Many people go through trial and error before getting a clear diagnosis. If you’ve been dealing with persistent skin issues, it’s important to seek guidance from a healthcare professional. Here are some common methods used to diagnose eczema: Here are some common methods used to diagnose eczema:
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Medical history review – Your doctor will discuss your personal and family history of eczema, allergies, or other related conditions.
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Symptom evaluation – A detailed assessment of your symptoms, including when flare-ups occur and what triggers them.
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Physical examination – A visual inspection of your skin for common signs of eczema, such as redness, dryness, or inflammation.
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Allergy testing – Tests to identify any allergens that could be triggering or worsening your eczema symptoms.
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Patch testing – A method to determine if specific substances cause skin reactions, which may contribute to your eczema.
- Skin biopsy – A small sample of skin is taken to rule out other skin conditions and confirm a diagnosis of eczema.
While the journey to an eczema diagnosis can feel frustrating and overwhelming, getting the right diagnosis is an essential step in managing your condition and finding relief.
Managing eczema
Types of Eczema Treatment
Cleansers:
Use soap free cleansers that contain moisturising agents and have a balanced pH, helping the skin stay hydrated and healthy. The skin’s barrier is really important for keeping moisture in and protecting against irritants. Regular soaps can damage this barrier, leaving the skin more sensitive.
Moisturisers:
Moisturisers are a vital part of managing eczema, helping to hydrate skin, repair the skin barrier, and soothe flare-ups. They come in various forms, including ointments, creams, lotions, gels, sprays, and oils, each suited to different needs. Ointments are thick and ideal for very dry skin, while creams are lighter and better for daytime use. Lotions and gels are cooling but less effective for deep hydration, sprays are convenient for hard-to-reach areas, and oils work well in baths or showers to leave a moisturising layer.
Choosing the right moisturiser depends on your skin type, lifestyle, and preferences. Ointments have fewer preservatives, making them good for sensitive skin, while creams and gels may need more frequent application unless they contain humectants. Lotions and sprays offer quick, light hydration, and oils are great for all-over moisture. Since you’ll use it daily, pick one you find comfortable and easy to use.
TCS reduce inflammation in the affected skin area, relieve itching and redness during flare-ups. They come in different strengths, from mild to strong, and your doctor or pharmacist will recommend the right one based on how severe and where your eczema is.
It is important to follow the instructions given by your doctor or pharmacist on how to use the treatment correctly.
Wet wrapping techniques are widely used during flare-ups to provide your skin extra relief.
Wet wraps are convenient to be applied at night; and can even be done at home on yourself or on a child with adequate instruction. Some topical treatment is not appropriate to be used under wet wrap.
Some topical treatment is not appropriate to be used under wet wrap.
These can be a helpful treatment for eczema sufferers, particularly for those prone to frequent infections caused by bacteria on the skin.
A diluted bleach bath helps reduce bacteria, inflammation, and itching, promoting healing and preventing flare-ups. These baths work by reducing the bacterial load on the skin, which can trigger or worsen eczema symptoms.
They are especially beneficial for recurrent infections or severe eczema.
Always follow your doctor’s guidance for safe dilution and frequency, and moisturise immediately after to maintain hydration.
Systemic treatments are often considered when the eczema condition is moderate to severe, or eczema that does not respond to topical treatments. These treatments work throughout your whole body, not just on specific areas of the skin, and are carefully monitored by your healthcare provider.
Phototherapy (UV light therapy): Phototherapy is a treatment where your skin is exposed to controlled amounts of ultraviolet (UV) light in targeted appointment sessions.
Oral systemic treatments: These include oral corticosteroids, Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors and oral immunosuppressive drugs.
Biological agents (biologics): Usually administered by injection, biologics work by blocking specific proteins in the immune system to reduce inflammation and itching
Managing eczema
Lifestyle adjustments
Making simple lifestyle adjustments can play a key role in managing eczema and reducing flare-ups. Small changes in your daily routine can have a big impact on the health of your skin and overall well-being.
- Stress management: Emotional stress can trigger or worsen eczema. Techniques like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises can help manage stress and keep flare-ups at bay.
- Sleep hygiene: A good night’s rest supports skin health and gives your body time to heal. Establishing a consistent sleep routine and keeping your environment cool and comfortable can help prevent eczema from disrupting your sleep.
- Dietary choices: Eating a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, like fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, can support healthy skin. Some people find that avoiding certain food triggers, like dairy or gluten, helps manage their eczema.
- Hydration: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day keeps your skin hydrated and helps it maintain its natural barrier.
- Environmental control: Reducing allergens and irritants in your home, such as using a humidifier, opting for fragrance-free products, and keeping your living space clean, can prevent flare-ups.
These lifestyle changes can help you better manage eczema, improving both your skin’s condition and your overall quality of life.
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