Lifestyle Changes to Manage Eczema
Managing a chronic condition like eczema can seem difficult, but there are ways you can do it if you follow certain lifestyle changes. Here are some of the common ways to manage the inflammatory skin condition at home. However, if the condition aggravates, it is best to visit a dermatologist and get professional treatment.
Lifestyle changes that help manage eczema
- Moisturize
You should look for specific hypoallergenic products that are helpful for your skin. You can try sprays, bath oils, or ointments as they can help retain your skin’s natural moisture. Experts recommend also recommend regular moisturization, but make sure the one you choose isn’t very greasy and does not leave a lot of residue on the skin. - Manage stress
Your eczema symptoms can get worse when you are stressed or anxious. Managing stress by practicing relaxation techniques or breathing exercises can help you. Speaking to a loved one or opting for professional therapy can also help you gain perspective on what might be troubling you, and can help you manage anxiety better. - Take warm baths
It is vital to remember that hot water dries your skin our further and must be avoided. Instead, take a warm bath to help your skin out. You can add some uncooked oatmeal or baking soda to the water and let it soak for about 15 minutes. Once you are done taking the bath, pat dry your skin, and then apply moisturizer because it will absorb better when your skin is still a bit damp. - Use a humidifier
When you have sensitive skin, the dry air indoors can cause flaking, which can lead to itching as well. You can get a portable humidifier so your skin doesn’t become as flaky anymore and the itching automatically reduces due to the extra moisture. - Wear the right clothes
Clothes can make your eczema worse and so you want to ensure you are wearing the right type of fabric. You should stay away from clothes that are too tight or that can increase itchiness. Choose the right gear while exercising as well, as your skin will have a difficult time breathing otherwise. - Use only mild soaps
When you are using soaps you should be careful because perfumed soaps can exacerbate the problem. as a lifestyle change to manage eczema, opt for mild soaps that do not have any perfume or dye in it. - Avoid itching as much as possible
It can be difficult to stop yourself from scratching when you feel an itch, but it is best to try your best to avoid it. Instead of scratching your skin, you should try pressing on it when it itches. If you feel like this is impossible, then you should cover the area with bandages. - Eat anti-inflammatory foods
Eating anti-inflammatory foods can help lessen the severity of your symptoms and reduce flare-ups too. You should eat foods that contain quercetin, fatty fish, and probiotics. These food items reduce inflammation and help improve your symptoms. - Try certain diets
Lifestyle changes that can help manage eczema include numerous diets that have been medically proven to help the condition. But, it is crucial to consult a doctor before embarking on the same. You can try the anti-inflammatory diet, the Mediterranean diet, the elimination diet, or the dyshidrotic diet. - Avoid triggering foods
Foods don’t always cause eczema but they can trigger a flare-up. Some of the common food allergens are nuts, eggs, dairy products, and soy. You should also avoid food preservatives and those which contain artificial ingredients. Excess sugar must be avoided too.