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Eczema is a skin condition caused by inflammation. It shows itself as patches of red, swollen and dry skin; sometimes small, fluid-filled blisters may appear as well. Eczema usually occurs on the face, hands, neck and legs. In children, eczema often appears on the inside of the knees and elbows.
There are many types of eczema, but the most common one is atopic dermatitis. Hence, ‘eczema’ is sometimes used interchangeably with ‘atopic dermatitis’. According to Dr. Lynn Teo, Associate Consultant Dermatologist, Changi General Hospital, “the exact cause of eczema is not known, although it is thought to be a combination of genetic factors that give some people extra-sensitive skin, allergies, contact with skin irritants, the environment and stress.” Often, eczema sufferers also have asthma or hay fever.
Skin irritants and allergens
Common skin irritants include soaps, detergents and other household cleaning products. Contact with allergens such as rubber, metals (nickel, for example), jewelry, perfume, cosmetics and poison ivy can also cause eczema. Changes in weather and stress can also trigger a flare-up.
Eczema can sometimes be so uncomfortable – the constant urge to scratch and the red and painful sores – that it disrupts your life. Dermatitis treatment varies, depending on the cause and severity. Your doctor may offer corticosteroid creams and ointments to treat mild eczema. In severe cases, the doctor may prescribe oral corticosteroid medication under careful supervision
Good skincare key to controlling eczema
While you may not be able to control factors like the changing environment and your stress level, you can be proactive about removing whatever is causing your allergic reaction. It can be as simple as changing to gentler laundry detergent or mild body soap. As eczema gets worse with dry skin, keeping your skin moisturised is one good way to prevent the eczema from flaring up.
Dr. Teo offers some easy skincare tips for eczema sufferers:
- Use only mild, unscented soap or body cleanser that does not strip your skin of its natural oil. Moisturize your skin right after a shower to seal in the moisture. Concentrate on areas such as legs, arms and back. Avoid lotions that contain fragrance or other skin-irritants.
- Take a cold or warm shower instead of a hot one. The hot water can dry out your skin. Keep shower time to no longer than 15 minutes.
- Avoid bubble baths.
- Tender loving care: Gently pat your skin dry with a bath towel after a shower. Do not rub vigorously as this will irritate the skin.
- Avoid harsh detergents and cleaning agents.
- Wear gloves and protective clothing when doing housework. This protects your hands and body from direct contact with skin irritants and allergen.
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Additional tips for children with eczema
- Reduce level of dust. Avoid fluffy toys and carpets
- Give an antihistamine to help your child to reduce the itch
- Treat allergy and infection with antibiotics
- Avoid hot weather
- Wear light cotton clothes
- Avoid food that can cause allergy such as eggs and peanuts
- Use medicated creams (e.g. mild steroid creams) to relieve the dry, scaly skin
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