Although there is no cure for eczema, there are several lifestyle changes you can make that can help you manage the symptoms of eczema.

1. Utilize moisturizers. Typically, eczema is dry and itchy so maintaining your skin’s moisture will help you to prevent it from becoming dry or cracking. Make a point to your keep skin well hydrated – drink plenty of fluids and find a moisturizer that does not irritate your skin (see skin irritants below).

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2. Be mindful when bathing. You should use lukewarm (never hot) water and avoid over bathing; both of which can irritate and dry out your skin. Soaps should be mild and non-drying. If your skin feels slightly dry or taut after use, discontinue and find another product. Avoid loofahs, scrubs, etc. as the friction will irritate your skin and lead to flare-ups. Gently pat skin partially dry with a towel and apply moisturizer immediately to lock in moisture.

3. Avoid or at least limit your contact with anything that causes irritation to your skin. Depending on your skin sensitivity this could be only a few things or almost everything you come in contact with. Detergents, cleaners, chemicals, soaps, perfumes, cosmetics, some fabrics, animals, foods, cigarette smoke, metals (i.e. jewelry), gasoline, turpentine, etc. can all be potential problems for your skin. Reading the ingredients listing on all products is important as even something as simple as toilet paper could be an irritation. Be mindful of the ingredients and look for products labeled ‘hypoallergenic’ which means that they do not contain potentially irritating ingredients. Products containing preservatives, fragrances, vitamins, alpha hydroxy and urea can cause irritation to your skin and should be avoided.

4. Clothing. Loose fitting, cotton clothing is often best for skin while synthetic blends, wool and other fabrics can feel rough against the skin and can trigger an eczema flare-up. Wash new clothes before wearing to remove excess dyes and chemicals using a mild detergent that you know won’t cause a reaction with your skin. Double rinse all clothes to ensure residual soap has been removed. Remove all tags that will touch and rub against your skin and cause irritation. By extension, new towel and bedding purchases should also be considered carefully and washed prior to being used for the first time.

5. Avoid drastic changes in temperature or humidity. Sudden, extreme increases in temperature and/or humidity can cause sweating and overheating which is a common trigger of the itch/scratch cycle. On the other hand, a sudden loss of humidity can dry out your skin, causing itching.

6. Avoid/reduce stress. Minimizing stress can be key to preventing eczema outbreaks but is not always easy, especially in today’s fast paced, high tension world. In addition, worrying about an outbreak can cause stress on its own and create a vicious cycle between escalating stress and increased eczema outbreaks. Find what works best for you: yoga, Pilates, meditation, a pet (if you’re not allergic), family and friends or a support group, maybe a hobby that you enjoy. Make it a point to take time out for yourself and pace yourself – don’t over commit to a never ending laundry list of to do items. Make sure you are getting enough sleep and that you maintain the treatment regiment that you have found works best for you.

7. Keep finger nails short. You are less likely to do damage scratching if your nails are short. Are you scratching at night while you’re asleep? Try using thin, cotton gloves to help combat damage from unconscious scratching. This is a great idea for children who are less likely to resist the intense itching.

8. Cold compresses. Using a cold compress on itchy areas can reduce inflammation and itchiness.

9. Antihistamines may also be used to reduce the itch. Those containing a sedative may be helpful at night when falling asleep but should be avoided during the day.