Test Your Knowledge

Patients with the form of eczema known as contact dermatitis are encouraged to avoid coming into contact with irritating substances – such as poison ivy or harsh soaps – that may trigger the condition.

Many other forms of eczema can be partially or fully prevented by avoiding dry skin. Tips for helping to achieve this goal include:

• Bathe less frequently. When possible, people may opt to bathe just two or three times a week, limiting themselves to 15 minutes of bathing in warm – rather than hot – water. 
  
  
• Use mild soaps or synthetic detergents. Mild soaps clean without excessively removing natural oils. Soap substitutes (synthetic detergents) in bar, gel and liquid forms dry the skin less than deodorant and antibacterial soaps. Soap should be used on the face, underarms, genital areas, hands and feet. Clear water can be used elsewhere. Patients should avoid the use of body sponges and washcloths, which can irritate the skin. The hands should be used instead to gently apply soap to the body.  
  
  
• Dry skin carefully. Brush the skin rapidly with the palms of the hands, or gently pat skin dry with a soft towel after bathing.
  
  
• Moisturize skin. A moisturizer should be applied whenever the skin appears dry. Lotions should be avoided because they often contain fragrances, alcohol and other irritants which can aggravate the skin. Creams, which contain oil and water, and ointments, which contain only oil, are better choices. It is particularly important to apply moisturizers after a bath, especially on the legs, arms, back and the sides of the body. Applying these products to the skin within three minutes of bathing, while the skin is still damp, helps seal in moisture.
  
  
• Wear gloves in the winter. Exposing skin to cold air with little humidity can dry out skin.

Other tips for preventing eczema or for reducing symptoms associated with the disease include avoiding:

• Substances that provoke allergies (allergens), which may trigger atopic dermatitis.
  
  
• Tight-fitting, rough or scratchy clothing. This can irritate the skin. Wool, linen and some synthetics are especially likely to irritate the skin. Cotton and cotton blends are better choices.
  
  
• Scratching the rash. Patients who find it difficult to control this urge should cover the area with a dressing or even wear gloves at night to minimize damage to the skin caused by scratching. Keeping short fingernails can help decrease the damage scratching causes the skin.
  
  
• Strenuous exercise during a flare-up. Sweating can irritate the rash.
  
  
• Mental and physical stress. Stress can trigger flare-ups. Stress management techniques, such as deep breathing, yoga and meditation can help patients reduce their stress levels. Patients may also benefit from joining an eczema support group.
  
  
• Contact with solvents and soaking in water. People who use solvents or who use water to clean should wear gloves to protect the skin on their hands.
  
  
• Sudden changes in temperature and humidity. An increase in temperature can lead to sweating and a decrease in humidity can dry the skin.  

In addition, patients with eczema should choose facial cleansers and makeup with care. Products labeled as “hypoallergenic”, “noncomedogenic” and “nonacnegenic” are least likely to irritate the skin. When using a product for the first time, patients should test the product on a small patch of skin that is clear and not irritated.