Tips on How to Treat Eczema and Relieve Dry Skin

Got dry, itchy skin? Read on for skin soothing advice.

 

Eczema is a common skin condition where very itchy dry patches can form on different parts of the body. If you have eczema or think you may have developed it, consult a doctor. Often eczema sufferers will scratch to try and relieve the discomfort, but this can sometimes damage the skin, making the symptoms even worse. For some people, it can be a never-ending cycle of scratching and damaging.

 

For some people, it can be a never-ending cycle of scratching and damaging. Unfortunately, while you may want to know how to get rid of eczema fast – there are no quick fixes but dealing with the symptoms of eczema, such as dry, itchy skin can help.

 

What causes dry skin eczema?

 

While there are a number of external causes of eczema, for many of us it’s due to genetics. If you have a family history of eczema, you are more likely to suffer with it too.

 

Although eczema isn’t an allergic reaction, it may be triggered by some common allergens. If you suffer with the condition, harsh soaps, perfumes, makeup, and laundry detergents can cause irritation and make the symptoms flare-up. Other factors such as stress, excess sweating, and changes in temperature may also cause the skin to dry out.

 

Tips On Easing Dry Skin with Vaseline Jelly for Eczema

 

It may be difficult for some people to get rid of eczema completely, but it is possible to help ease some of the symptoms. Here we explain ways to relieve dry skin associated with eczema and minimize itchiness.

 

1. Living with Eczema

 

Learning what triggers your eczema and causes your symptoms to flare-up is one of the most important steps in living with the condition. Consult your doctor, who may recommend some simple changes to your everyday routine (such as the tips below) to help control and alleviate the symptoms.

 

• Regulate temperatures – Heat dries the skin out. Take shorter, cooler showers or baths to prevent the skin from losing excess moisture. Also, control the temperatures inside your home. Use an air conditioner to keep cool when the weather is hot and humid, and invest in a humidifier for when the weather is cold and you need to put the heating on.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing – Cotton fabrics are a good choice for people with eczema. Woolen and man-made fibers can irritate the skin. You should also stick to wearing loose, cotton fabrics when exercising. Sweating may cause flare-ups of eczema; so wearing a breathable fabric like cotton can help to minimize this. Showering straight after a work out may also help to prevent skin irritation.
• Avoid harsh ingredients – Harsh detergents, soaps, chemicals, and fragrances can all trigger eczema. Look for gentle, fragrance-free skin care products, as well as mild cleaning products and laundry detergents.
• Stop scratching – It can be hard to fight the urge to scratch, so keep nails short to prevent the skin from breaking if you cannot help it. Covering the itchy area with a cold compress can help to reduce the sensation, alongside the above remedies for avoiding irritants and common causes of flare-ups.

 

2. How to Get Rid of Eczema

 

Unfortunately, getting rid of Eczema isn’t easy. Although you can try and avoid triggers, when suffering with eczema you need to see a doctor. They will give you advice on specific lotions and creams to use that are compatible with the type of eczema you have. Along with this, your doctor may recommend techniques to combat the dryness and itchiness caused by eczema, such as the following:

 

• Moisturizers – Never underestimate the power of moisturizing. Dry skin caused by eczema can be controlled with a good daily moisturizing routine. Moisturizing is essential for rehydration and for improving the skin’s natural recovery process. After bathing or showering in warm (not hot) water, apply a gentle moisturizer or Vaseline lotion to the skin to replenish moisture and help relieve dryness. Remember to use a moisturizer suitable for use with sensitive skin and eczema.
• Medications – Your doctor may recommend over–the-counter medications such as topical hydrocortisone creams which can be very effective at relieving itching.
• UV therapy – According to the National Eczema Association, phototherapy has been successful in treating up to 70 percent of eczema patients.A steady program of treatment over an average of 1-2 months can help to reduce the itch and inflammation, increase Vitamin D production, and help the skin fight off bacteria. Consult your doctor to see if UV therapy could be right for you.
• Vaseline Petroluem Jelly – Applying a smooth jelly can help to intensively moisturize especially dry areas overnight. Apply a product like Vaseline® Jelly Original to areas like the hands or feet, and cover them with gloves or socks. The jelly’s occlusive formula will lock in moisture and help facilitate the skin’s natural regeneration process as you sleep. This will help to relieve dry skin and ease itchiness. Wearing gloves to bed will also help to prevent you from scratching in your sleep.

 

3. Is Petroleum Jelly Good for Eczema?

 

When suffering from eczema on hands and feet, you’ll want to use products that are compatible with your condition and won’t aggravate it. The good news is that the US National Eczema Association has affirmed that Vaseline Petroleum Jelly Original is suitable for eczema sufferers and people with sensitive skin conditions. You can use petroleum jelly on eczema-prone areas, to help combat the dry skin symptoms. Your doctor may also recommend it be used in conjunction with specific eczema treatments.

 

If you’re using Vaseline® Jelly for eczema, it’s important to know that it won’t heal the skin condition. But it can be incredibly helpful, as it protects, soothes, and repairs dry, cracked skin. Its triple-purified, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic formula makes Vaseline® Jelly Original the ideal moisturizer for people with dry skin conditions, as it locks in moisture and is suitable for sensitive skin.

 

We understand that dry, itchy skin can be frustrating, but with these tips you can take charge of your eczema. Avoiding triggers and using effective moisturizers will help you to minimize your dry skin symptoms and relieve discomfort, for healthier looking skin.

 

Expert Advice

The advice in this article does not constitute medical advice, it is solely available for information purposes. Learn more about skin type issues and dry skin tips to help treat any causes you may have.