More and more of us who suffer from the condition are turning to natural remedies and lifestyle alterations as a solution rather than using harsh
medications such as steroids. If you suffer from Eczema, you should always discuss the options for treating it with your doctor.
Finding safe, effective ways of controlling your eczema and easing the symptoms - especially the irritating itching - not only improves the health of
your skin, but can also help to boost your self-confidence. So here are some tips on what you can do:
1. Take some time to de-stress:
Stress can often worsen skin conditions and Eczema is no exception. It’s well worth trying to get plenty of sleep and trying not to dwell on your
symptoms, as this can make them worse. Whether you choose to add meditation into your morning routine, or end the day by listening to some
calming music, factoring time into your schedule to relax can be beneficial not only for your mind, but also your body.
2. Up your exercise
Eczema can sometimes be exacerbated by poor circulation, so going for a walk or finding a gym class you enjoy can help by getting the blood
pumping. In addition, exercising releases endorphins which make you feel happier and reduce stress levels. However, try to make sure that you
don’t get too hot whilst working out as this could trigger a flare-up. Ensure that you drink lots of water to replace any that you sweat out, and
moisturise scrupulously with a product developed specifically for Eczema-prone skin after your post-gym shower to reduce dryness.
3. Consider herbal options, alongside or in place of harsher drugs
Using traditional herbal medicines can help ease Eczema and improve your overall skin health. The ingredients in our HRI Clear Complexion gentle
formula have been successfully used to improve complexions for hundreds of years. Containing the herbal anti-inflammatories Sarsaparilla and
Burdock Root, as well as cleansing Blue Flag, the tablets have been shown to be beneficial in helping relieve Eczema as well as a host of other skin
complaints.
4. Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise!
Any Eczema sufferer will tell you that a good moisturising routine is essential as Eczema-prone skin often fails to retain water, hence drying out and
becoming red and itchy. By moisturising after washing, you can prevent water your skin may have absorbed from evaporating by adding a barrier of
oil. Because perfumed creams can irritate the skin further, look for specialist medical emollients recommended for Eczema sufferers - your
pharmacist or doctor may also be able to advise you on specific brands or go to www.eczema.org/about-eczema for advice.
5. Avoid scratching at all costs
Eczema can make the skin irresistibly itchy, however scratching is the worst thing that you can do! By scratching patches of Eczema you further
damage the skin, making outbreaks last longer, and you run the risk of infection. Many sufferers accidentally scratch at night, but by keeping your
fingernails short and even wearing gloves to bed you can avoid this.
6. Keep clean!
Excessive washing can worsen the condition - particularly using harsh, drying soaps - but making sure that your skin is kept clean is an essential
factor in controlling Eczema and reducing the risk of infection. Some people find that oatmeal baths can be a very effective way to cleanse the skin
whilst also reducing itching.
7. Wear ‘breathable’ fabrics
The clothes you wear can have a huge impact on Eczema and its symptoms. Be careful to think about the fabric and fit of a new garment before
purchasing it. Avoid anything coarse-textured or tight which may rub and irritate sensitive skin and steer clear of synthetics in favour of fibres like
cotton. Even the type of washing powder you use can make a difference, so it is worth sticking to non-biological brands.
8. Regulate your home’s heat and humidity
‘Winter itch’ is something often experienced by Eczema sufferers, with symptoms often worsening during the winter months as skin reacts to the
changes between hot and cold environments. Because the skin of Eczema sufferers is more sensitive to changes in temperature, maintaining a
comfortable and consistent temperature at home or work can help prevent these problems. During the summer months try to avoid direct exposure
to fierce air-conditioning systems as this can also have a drying effect. Changes in humidity can have similarly adverse effects, as the skin is unable
to adjust and dries out, making it more prone to Eczema break-outs.
Although usually associated with children, Atopic - or allergy-based - Eczema is in fact a
British adults, with more women than men suffering from the condition.
In addition to being physically uncomfortable, the condition can make you feel self-conscious
about the appearance of your skin and unwilling to reveal the affected areas.
As we approach the season of shorts, T-shirts and light summer dresses, doing everything we can
to reduce flare-ups becomes even more important for many suffers.
