7 expert tips for relieving eczema and itching

To help, we’ve put together seven expert tips that you can use before, during, or after a flare-up to protect your skin, reduce itchiness, and manage eczema.

1. Keep your skin cool

Being in a hot environment can dry out the skin. As the temperature outside falls, ensure your indoor environment is not too hot and turn the thermostat down. In the summer, low humidity, high temperatures and air conditioning can have the same effect. Keep cool and avoid overheating.

2. Add colloidal oatmeal to your bath

Colloidal oatmeal acts as an emollient, which means it helps lock in moisture by forming a protective barrier over the skin. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate the dryness and flakiness often associated with eczema.

Adding it to your bath is a great way to reduce itchiness overnight and prevent you from scratching yourself while you’re asleep. For maximum benefit, fill your bathtub with lukewarm water (hot water can further aggravate your skin), add one cup of oatmeal under the running tap (you can vary the amount according to the size of your tub), and soak for 10 to 15 minutes.

Make sure you rinse yourself off before you get out and avoid aggravating the affected area with your towel when drying. Instead, gently pat your skin and leave a thin layer of moisture before you start moisturising.

3. Apply a thin layer of emollient throughout the day

A thick layer of moisturiser may seem like a good idea, but it can block your pores and cause more itching.

It’s more beneficial to continually re-apply a thin layer throughout the day. This helps keep your skin hydrated and avoids clogging. Always apply the emollient in smooth, downward strokes without rubbing the product as this may worsen your itchy flare-up.

Eczema-friendly ingredients include petrolatum, ceramides and glycerine. It’s best to avoid fragranced products.

If you know you are sensitive to certain products or chemicals, always check labels before you purchase a moisturiser. Even products that claim to be good for ‘sensitive skin’ can contain additives and chemicals capable of making a flare-up worse.

4. Keep your nails short and clean

If you have long and sharp nails, accidental contact or a gentle scratch can cut and aggravate your skin more than it should. Keeping your nails short also means you can’t aggressively scratch yourself during the night.

Short nails will also prevent bacteria from forming under the nail, which can cause infection in eczema prone skin.

If you’re unsure of the best way to cut or trim long nails, look for a guide online to avoid ingrown nails and cutting too far down.

5. Switch to cotton

Fabric like wool and polyester can irritate your skin and make the itching we commonly associate with eczema worse. This can lead to rashes breaking out in areas we aren’t used to and an itchy, uncomfortable feeling that makes it feel like you’re overheating.

Many people with eczema find that wearing loose, cotton clothing and using cotton bed linen feels gentler against their skin. It’s also more breathable, which allows air to pass in and out of your immediate personal space to prevent excess sweating.

6. Apply a mild topical steroid

Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid medication that can be used to soothe swollen skin and itchy patches of eczema.

You can purchase this over-the-counter product in a variety of different forms such as creams or gels. Always make sure to read the label and follow the application instructions.

These instructions typically recommend you apply a thin layer of hydrocortisone to the affected area for up to a week. Never use Hydrocortisone for more than a week before talking to your doctor.

7. Seek professional help

If itchiness persists or your eczema becomes worse, it’s best to talk to a dermatologist. To book an appointment with a dermatologist, visit our website at https://www.nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals

Last updated Wednesday 18 September 2024

First published on Wednesday 18 September 2024