Irritated and itchy skin from eczema often results in physical discomfort, and flare ups can be distressing especially with increased hand washing and bathing. During this time when healthcare providers encourage increased hand washing and sanitizing, make sure you educate yourself on how to treat your symptoms. Keep reading for skin care tips from Dr. Wooming, the eczema doctor Dallas patients love.
What Causes my Eczema Symptoms?
Eczema is a catch-all term for a group of conditions that affect the skin and make it red, itchy, inflamed and irritated. The two most common types of eczema are atopic dermatitis and contact dermatitis; these can appear on any part of the body, especially the hands, feet, face, elbows as well as the torso. Additionally, eczema can be easily triggered by a number of factors. The most typical triggers are:
- Irritants like metals, soaps, fragrances, wool, and chemical irritants found in personal care products and household cleaners
- Physical factors like stress, sweat, hormones, hot baths/showers, and excessive scratching
- Allergens from pollen, pet dander, mold, and cigarette smoke
- Climate change, extremely hot or cold weather, and changes in humidity
Skin Care Tips from the Eczema Doctor Dallas Trusts
Increased levels of hand washing and bathing are a very common trigger for eczema flare ups. Here are a few basic methods patients use to keep bad flare ups at bay:
- Bathe and wash with lukewarm water and immediately apply a greasy moisturizer
- Use over-the-counter remedies like gentle cleansers, mild steroids, and moisturizers
- Prescription treatments like topical steroids, and in some cases immunosuppressant medications
Dr. George suggests to use these methods year-round, but they can also be used right now when you are washing, scrubbing, and sanitizing more often.
Dr. George Wooming offers telemedicine virtual visits for patients that prefer to see a doctor without going into the office. Through telemedicine, Dr. George has the ability to diagnose and offer treatment options for eczema. Talk with us and make a plan of action to treat your flare ups. Contact Knox Dermatology to schedule an appointment to get started!