Having dehydrated skin is one thing, but dealing with eczema takes dry skin woes to whole other level. Since we're smack dab in the middle of winter, a lot of people are experiencing eczema flareups, and there are a few key things to keep in mind when combatting this type of irritation that go above and beyond your usual dry skin treatments.
1.) Using Heat
Basking in hot water in your shower might feel good, but it makes eczema worse. "Hot showers temporarily substitute the sensation of heat for itch, but if you come out and towel dry, you'll make your skin drier and worsen the problem," says Dr. Ciraldo. Instead, stick with tepid water, and try to stay in the water until your fingertips wrinkle - "this will rehydrate your skin," she says. After patting yourself dry apply a calming lotion like our
Soothe Sensitive Skin Treatment.
2.) Skimping on Moisturizer
Everyone should be quenching their skin with a moisturizer every single day, but if you're dealing with eczema, you should do so more frequently. "One of the biggest mistakes people with eczema make is that they don't moisturize enough," says Dr. Chi. "They might use cream once a day, when actually they need it 2-3 times daily, especially after getting the skin wet like after hand washing or bathing." This is because eczema skin dries out easier, so keep that moisturizer in hand. Our
Body Hydration Cream is ideal for hands and body this time of year.
3.) Sloughing Skin with Strong Chemical Exfoliants
Since having eczema means your skin barrier is compromised, Dermatologists say to avoid exfoliating, especially with a strong chemical exfoliant. "Don't use exfoliators like salicylic acid or glycolic acid," says Dr. Chi. In fast, she suggests skipping out on exfoliating altogether until your skin barrier's back in tip top shape. Then, when you're ready, try lactic acide, which is less irritating than the other acids in the arsenal. Instead, use our
Soothe Moisturize Replenishing Cream to keep skin stay hydrated and to repair the skin barrier.
