TIPS FOR ECZEMA SKIN

USING HOPE IN A BOTTLE:

In active flare ups of eczema, you will need to see your health professional in a timely fashion so the cause of the irritation could be determined & treated promptly. Medicated treatment may be required, e.g. antibiotics, steroidal preparation etc, depending on the severity.

Moisturising and maintaining skin barrier function is also an important part to break the ‘itch and scratch cycle’. 

If your health professional also suggested you to moisturise your skin, you may use HOPE in a bottle alone or in conjunction with most of the common moisturisers (e.g. Fatty Cream, Sorbolene cream, Emulsifying ointment, Cetomacrogol cream). Allow HOPE to be fully absorbed, then apply the moisturisers.

Use the non-scented version if your skin is very sensitive.

Use HOPE at least 1-2 hours away from any medicated creams so the medication can be absorbed fully.

x After the active flareups, it is wise to continue using HOPE in a bottle 2-3 times a day or more so your skin barrier remains strong and less likely to have another episode. 

If your skin is dry, see TIPS for DRY SKIN page for management. See a health professional again if your condition does not improve, or starting to develop other symptoms.

OTHER USEFUL TIPS:

Involve your health professionals to identify the type of eczema involved & create a treatment plan.

Some eczema sufferers may also have asthma & allergies.

Emollients are essential for maintaining skin barrier function and are frequently underused. These should be applied as often as required even when the eczema is well controlled. 

Reduce doing things that may disrupt the skin barrier function: e.g. frequent hand washing, strong detergents.

Take notice and try to avoid certain irritants: e.g. certain jewelleries, sticking plasters, fragrances, hair dye, plant materials. 

Less is more. Try to steer away from emollients with too much fragrance, chemical and complicated ingredients. 

Natural ingredients can cause irritations too. Choose simple & hypoallergenic formulations & always do a skin patch test when something is new to you.

For dust mite allergies - encasing bedding with dust mite covers, wash top bedding every fortnight in hot water cycle (>55°C). Use vacuum cleaners fitted with a HEPA filter.

Use oil bath (e.g. adding HOPE into bath) to moisturise the skin (watch out for the slippery floor). Use soap-free washes or soap substitutes. 

Consider diet induced food allergies. 

Use antihistamines and medicines ordered by your doctor/pharmacist to help relieving the itch & inflammation. 

Useful websites: 

http://www.allergy.org.nz/A-Z+Allergies/Eczema.html http://eczema.org.nz/ http://www.dermnetnz.org/topics/e/eczema-dermatitis-and-allergies/

Information provided here are general information, it cannot be substituted for a proper medical consultation.