MM Skincare
How to prevent a flare-up
If you find your eczema gets worse during the summer months, discovering what triggers your symptoms may be useful – though some people find their eczema gets better or worse for no obvious reason. These triggers vary from one person to the
next, but the most common ones include the following:
• Soaps and detergents, including shampoo, washing-up liquid and bubble bath. Scrubbing your skin too hard can also make eczema worse.
• Environmental factors such as pollen – which is often a problem during the summer – as well as pet fur, house dust mites and moulds.
• Foods including dairy foods, eggs, seafood, wheat, nuts and soya (try keeping a diary of everything you eat as well as when your symptoms flare up to track which foods are causing a problem).
• Synthetic fabrics such as acrylic and polyester (wool can also trigger eczema).
• Skin infections. • Hormonal changes.
Stress can lead to eczema flare-ups in some people too. If this happens to you, try to avoid situations that make you feel anxious whenever possible. Practising relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation may also help you cope with stress more effectively. Overheating can also make eczema itchier, so
Ointments have more oil than creams, and creams have more oil than lotions. If you’re not sure which would be right for you, your local pharmacist can give you the advice you need
> In other words, you should use emollients even when your eczema is under control. All emollients work in the same way, but they differ in the amount of oil and
water they contain. For instance ointments have more oil than creams, and creams have more oil than lotions. If you’re not sure which would be right for you, your local pharmacist can give you the advice you need. Apply emollients after having a bath or shower and, if your skin is very dry,
every two or three hours after that. Here are some tips to get the most out of them:
• Apply a large amount – don't skimp.
• Apply in the same direction as your hair grows and leave to dry, don't rub it in.
• When using after a bath or shower, apply while your skin is still moist.
Never share your emollients with other people, and keep small tubes of emollients in your bag or pocket so you can use them when you’re out and about.
44 Modernmum
try to keep as cool as possible when it’s hot. And if you plan to go swimming this summer, rinse your skin thoroughly afterwards and apply plenty of moisturiser after drying.
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