By Christina Tremblay
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition in which you develop patches of dry, red, and itchy skin.
Eczema often begins in childhood but can start at any age. The cause is not fully understood but thought to be a combination of genetics and environmental factors. Individuals with eczema tend to be overly sensitive to allergens and irritants in the environment which will trigger inflammation and itchy rashes on the skin. Here are some tips to avoid an eczema flare:
Use gentle products:
An individual with eczema has very sensitive skin, meaning their skin cannot tolerate just any product. It is important to avoid harsh fragrances or irritating ingredients and opt for both skin care and laundry products labeled for sensitive skin or that indicate ‘hypoallergenic’ or fragrance free. Gentle brands such as Vanicream make skin care products that include moisturizers, shampoos, and soaps that are great for individuals with eczema due to being free of fragrance, dyes, and other chemicals.
My favorite detergent recommendation for sensitive skin is All Free Clear Liquid Laundry Detergent. Keep in mind that perfumes, colognes, essential oils, diffusers, plug-ins, and candles all contain fragrances that can also flare eczema. Although these are not necessarily applied directly to the skin, exposure in the environment can still trigger an eczema flare.
Avoid hot showers:
Eczema often gets worse in the winter months due to the dryer air combined with using heat indoors. Heat from a hot shower will further dry out your skin and cause it to become redder and more irritated. It is best to avoid hot showers and instead use lukewarm water and shower less frequently.
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize:
To keep your skin from drying out further, the best time to moisturize your skin is directly out of the shower. Rather than drying off completely, it is best to apply your moisturizer while your skin is still damp. This will help to lock in the moisture. I recommend using a cream over a lotion as creams have a thicker consistency and are more hydrating. Both Cerave and La Roche Posay offer moisturizing creams that are great for this.
Finally, remember that our bodies undergo changes over time. Patients often express using familiar products and claiming, “nothing has changed,” yet experiencing eczema flares. This phenomenon occurs because, even if the products remain constant, our bodies and skin evolve with each birthday we are lucky to have (aka age)!
Christina Tremblay , PA-C
Christina Tremblay , PA-C, was born and raised in Orlando. She attended University of Miami on a scholarship, studying biomedical engineering. Christina went on to graduate cum laude with her bachelor of science in biology from University of Central Florida. Prior to PA school, she acquired experience in pediatric and adult emergency medicine at NCH North Naples and Downtown hospitals.
Christina attended PA school at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale. During her graduate studies, she authored and presented research on melanoma and the importance of patient education and screening. Christina was twice awarded the Chancellor’s Scholarship and graduated with honors in master of medical science, physician assistant.
Personally trained by Dr. Daniel Wasserman, Christina specializes in general dermatology for all age groups. She emphasizes educating her patients and listening to their individual needs to provide personalized treatment. Christina is passionate about treating skin cancer, acne, rosacea, rashes, and psoriasis. Due to her previous struggle with skin conditions, Christina is particularly dedicated to enhancing how her patients look and feel about themselves. In her free time, Christina enjoys weightlifting, traveling, playing piano, and spending time with her family.
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