Step 1 – Moisturize daily
Moisturize your skin in the morning and again in the late afternoon or evening. Choose moisturizers that lock in moisture longer.
Step 2 – Use a humidifier
Make sure you keep the humidity in your house over 40% and maintain a comfortable temperature.
Step 3 – Wear comfy clothes
Avoid wool and synthetic clothing and stick to 100% cotton. If you are going outdoors, always wear gloves to protect your hands.
Step 4 – Sunscreen
Although it seems counter intuitive, make sure you apply sunscreen to your face when going out in the cold. Make sure you get one designed for sensitive skin that is an SPF of 30 or better.
Step 5 – Don’t sweat it
Dress in layers so you can regulate your temperature more easily. Getting too warm may trigger eczema.
Step 6 – Smoke is not your friend
Be it wood smoke from the fireplace or cigarette smoke, these can trigger eczema.
Step 7 – Use gentle detergents
Use gentle (or natural) detergents when washing clothes to avoid irritating sensitive skin.
Step 8 – Cool (or warm) baths
Soaking in a cool or warm tub can soothe skin, but refrain from a hot bath as that has the opposite effect when it comes to eczema.
Jana Taylor is a staff writer for Liddell Laboratories.