What is Eczema and How to Treat It
What is Eczema?
Most people have experienced dry, itchy skin in the winter. Though uncomfortable, this is usually not eczema. Eczema is generally defined as inflammation of the skin and affects about 3% of adults and about 13% of children in the United States. Also known as atopic dermatitis, signs of eczema may include:
- Itchy skin and rashes
- Swelling of the skin and tissues
- Dry or scaly patches
- Skin flaking in the affected area
- Blistering and bumps on the skin
- Skin discoloration, both lighter and darker
- Lesions, or small tears in inflamed areas
What Causes Eczema?
Definitive causes of eczema are unknown and up for debate. Many believe that eczema is a response from the immune system when it is overreacting to an irritating bacterium, temperature, chemical or fabric. Some specific causes, or triggers, may include:
- Allergies to things that physically touch the skin, including soaps and detergents
- Allergies to things inhaled, such as seasonal pollen, dust mites, pet dander and mold
- Extreme temperature differences
- Sweating and overheating
- Prolonged sun exposure
- Adverse reactions to specific foods
- Smoking
- Skin infections and deficient skin hygiene
- Autoimmune diseases, such as Lupus
- Anxiety and stress due to an overproduction of cortisol
What is the Best Treatment for Eczema?
According to the FDA, colloidal oatmeal is the only approved ingredient to treat eczema, and it is one of the main ingredients in First Aid Beauty’s Ultra Repair Cream . Colloidal oatmeal contains fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals and other nutrients shown to benefit the skin. Our cream combines colloidal oatmeal with shea butter, ceramide 3 and a unique antioxidant booster. 100% of those surveyed reported lasting improvements in skin dryness when using this product. This top-rated formula won the 2015 Allure Best of Beauty Award and has over 15,000 5-star reviews.
If you are struggling with dry or distressed skin on your face specifically, add Ultra Repair Rescue Barrier Balm into your routine. This balm is an over-the-counter skin protectant that delivers temporary relief and 24-hour hydration to sensitive, compromised skin.
How Can I Prevent Eczema Flare-Ups?
The first step in being proactive about your eczema flare ups is being aware of your own personal triggers. Many who suffer from eczema find value in keeping a journal of flare ups and possible causes. Once you start seeing your patterns, you can begin to avoid or eliminate those triggers. This process puts helpful systems in place for dealing with your skin condition.
In addition, here are some proactive prevention tips:
- Drink lots of water and use a humidifier to add moisture to the air
- Take note of how certain foods affect your outbreaks (many found irritation with nuts and dairy)
- Take lukewarm baths and consider adding powdered colloidal oatmeal or Epsom salts
- Keep skin moisturized and apply emollients within 3 minutes of bathing/showering to “lock in” moisture. Try Ultra Repair Cream as a head-to-toe moisturizer
- Avoid sudden changes in temperature and humidity
- Wear loose fitting clothes made of natural materials
- Meditate, breathe deeply and try to reduce your stress
Though atopic dermatitis can be stressful or embarrassing for some, there are many ways to manage your eczema symptoms. Very often a combination of journaling, treatment, preventive care and stress reduction can help calm the outbreaks.
You're not alone in this. Many of our customers have found strength in sharing their stories with others - whether that's in local support groups or through virtual communities. These connections can be a helpful part of your skincare journey.