Eczema is an inflammation of the skin in which patches of skin are rough and can blister or bleed. There are various causes of the inflammation and several ways to manage it.

Debjani Roy, MD, FACP, Internal Medicine at NorthShore, knows how important it is to take good care of your skin if you have eczema. Dr. Roy suggests these habits to maintain a good regimen that will help alleviate eczema woes:

• Stay hydrated. Proper hydration plays a large role in prevention.
• Warm water. Avoid hot water in your showers or baths and keep your bathing time short, lukewarm showers are better.
• Keep it mild. When shopping for your toiletries look for a mild soap or non-soap cleanser and a good moisturizer.
• Moisturize. Applying lotion or moisturizers immediately after bathing is important to lock in moisture - which keeps the skin hydrated.
• Keep it soft. Wear loose cotton or other soft fabrics. Be sure to avoid rough or tight clothing or blankets.
• Grooming. Keeping short nails can help prevent breaking of the skin when scratching.
• Regulate the temperature. Use a humidifier when it’s cold or dry outside. For some, it helps to avoid a drastic change in temperature when possible- such as activities that make you sweat.
• Reduce stress. While stress does not cause eczema, it does not help. Find time to relax and combat stress.
• Medication. There are some medicinal treatments – over the counter and prescription – available to treat eczema. Talk to your doctor to see what option is best for you.
• Keep track. It’s important to track what triggers your eczema and what works such as brands of products or clothing and medications.

If you are having trouble finding what helps your eczema, talk to your doctor.

What tips and tricks have helped you with eczema?