Eczema: What Causes It – And How Do You Treat It?'

 

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Eczema is a condition that results in dry and itchy skin. Around 1 in 5 children experience eczema, while 1 in 10 people experience it in adulthood. 

Although it is such a common condition, many people do not know much about it. What causes it? And how should you treat it? This post takes a closer examination of eczema, along with its causes and treatments.

What causes eczema?

Eczema can have many causes. For some people, it is a genetic condition (xerotic eczema) that results in the skin not producing enough oils or retaining enough moisture.

For others, it is an immunological disorder. In this case, eczema may be triggered by irritants or allergens that may not affect others the same way. These could include:

• Certain fabrics

• Certain make-up or cosmetics

• Certain soaps or detergents

• Pollen

• Pet dander

• Eating certain foods

Certain environmental factors may cause anyone to develop eczema. For example, you are likely to develop eczema if:

• You are exposed to cold dry air for long periods

• Wash your hands/body too often or use harsh soaps

• Use certain cleaning chemicals without gloves

• Work or live in areas that are very smoky

Eczema flare-ups can also commonly be caused by stress. Cortisol, the stress hormone, can cause inflammation around the body, making patches of dry skin red and more sensitive. 

What are the best ways to treat eczema?

There are several ways in which you may be able to treat or manage eczema: 

Avoid triggers

If flare-ups are caused by certain triggers like eating certain foods or wearing certain fabrics, you may be able to avoid these triggers to help relieve your eczema. It’s important to record your flare-ups in order to identify exactly what your triggers are. Identifying certain chemicals in products or certain materials in clothing could be important so that you can avoid other products containing these chemicals and materials.

Moisturize daily

Moisturizers help to lock water in your skin to help combat dryness. Every adult should ideally be moisturizing daily, but it is particularly important for those with eczema. You can explore different types of moisturizers online.

Change your washing habits

Washing your skin daily is recommended if you have eczema as it can prevent skin infections and soothe inflammation. However, you should try to use lukewarm water and avoid scrubbing in order to not irritate skin further. Avoid fragranced soaps as these can be a trigger. Do not wash your hands or body too often, as this can strip away oils and cause more eczema. 

Use gloves when handling chemicals

To avoid contact dermatitis when handling chemicals, always wear protective gloves. This includes cleaning products, solvents and fabric softeners. 

Explore medications

There are many medications you can use to help heal areas of dry skin affected by eczema. Steroid-based creams are very popular, but should be used in moderation. Taking antihistamines can meanwhile help treat allergic reactions. Other eczema treatments like Adbry could also work. 

Try light therapy

Light therapy for eczema involves using ultraviolet light on areas of dry skin to reduce inflammation and itching. You can use a handheld ultraviolet device or get this treatment done by a professional.