Eczema flares can ruin your day. It affects about 1 in 5 kids and many adults, but small, smart changes often bring big relief. This short guide gives clear steps to spot triggers, soothe your skin now, and cut down future flare-ups. No nonsense — just what works.
Start with skincare basics. Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser and lukewarm water. Pat skin dry, then lock in moisture within three minutes using a thick emollient or ointment. Look for ceramide or petrolatum-based products. Apply moisturiser twice daily and after any washing. Consistency beats fancy products.
Change small things in your routine. Wear soft cotton, avoid wool or scratchy fabrics, and choose breathable clothes. Wash new clothes before wearing and use a mild, fragrance-free laundry liquid. Keep showers short and cool — hot water strips oils and triggers itching. Use a humidifier in dry months to stop skin from cracking.
Know the common triggers. Soaps, scented detergents, and contact with harsh chemicals often spark flares. Sweat, sudden temperature changes, dust mites, pet dander, and stress can also set off eczema. Food can trigger eczema in some kids — if you suspect a food link, track symptoms and talk to a doctor before cutting out foods.
Handle itch safely. Scratching damages skin and prolongs flares. Keep nails short and smooth. Try cool compresses or a damp cloth to soothe intense itching. Over-the-counter antihistamines can help with nighttime itching for some people, but they don’t fix inflammation.
If a flare is active, topical treatments can calm it. Emollients should be your base. For inflammation, low- to mid-potency topical steroids often work quickly; use them as directed by a healthcare professional. Non-steroid creams (like topical calcineurin inhibitors) are options for sensitive areas like the face. Don’t use stronger steroid creams long-term without medical advice.
See a clinician if your eczema spreads, looks infected (increasing pain, pus, yellow crusts), or doesn’t respond to basic care and steroid creams. If flares wake you up, cover large skin areas, or cause significant stress, ask about prescription options. A doctor can check for infections, offer wet-wrap therapy, refer for allergy or patch testing, or discuss advanced treatments like phototherapy or biologics for severe cases.
Stick to a simple routine: moisturise every day, use gentle cleansers, avoid known triggers, and manage stress with sleep, walks, or breathing exercises. Sunscreen matters — choose mineral blockers if your skin is sensitive. Keep a short symptom diary to spot patterns. Small, steady steps often reduce flare frequency and intensity.
Eczema is manageable even if it feels overwhelming. Start with the basics above, tweak what doesn’t work, and reach out to a healthcare provider when needed. You don’t have to accept constant itching — practical care can make a real difference.
In my recent blog post, I explored the possibilities of using Clotrimazole to help with eczema. Clotrimazole is an antifungal medication typically used for treating fungal infections, but it may also have some benefits for those suffering from eczema. I discussed the potential benefits, including its anti-inflammatory properties and potential for reducing itchiness. However, I also mentioned that more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness for eczema treatment. Overall, Clotrimazole could be a promising option for relieving eczema symptoms, but it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before trying it out.
Health and Wellness