ECZEMA
STUDENT INFORMATION SHEET

Eczema is a very common, often chronic skin condition. It can be hereditary or caused by a variety of everyday conditions. Irritating factors in soaps, detergents, fabric softeners, dyes, or perfumes can worsen eczema. Stress, dry skin, low humidity, or allergies can also aggravate this condition. The result is a very dry, often itchy, occasionally burning rash. Scratching can damage the skin and prolong the rash by causing infection. Stopping the itching is an important step in treating eczema.

The following measures may offer some relief:

• Limit showers to once per day or every other day
• Showers should not be long, 5 to 10 minutes is sufficient
• Use lukewarm (not hot) water
• Use a mild, unscented soap or cleanser (Dove soap)
• Don't scrub with a washcloth, as this may irritate the skin
• Avoid vigorous towel drying after bathing or swimming
• Apply a moisturizer often. Use it at least after bathing. It is most effective when applied to damp skin. Eucerin and Lubriderm are excellent choices. Cream or ointments may work best but are more time-consuming to apply than lotions.
• Use hypo-allergenic laundry detergents or fabric softeners, usually the words "perfume or dye-free" are used in labeling such products
• Avoid topical products that contain antihistamines or topical anesthetics as they may increase the itchiness
• Avoid scratching as much as possible
• Reduce stress