Steps for Eczema Treatment

If you suspect you have eczema, take these steps:

•      Check with your doctor to rule out possible causes for the rash other than allergy.

•      Be on the lookout for all irritants and sub­stances, including foods, that seem to cause burning, itching, redness, or dryness.

•      Prevent skin dryness. Replacing water is the key to eczema treatment. Try the "soak-and-seal" method: Soak ten to twenty minutes in the tub or shower two or three times a day, then seal with moisturizer. Use warm (not hot) water, minimal soap, and no bubble bath (which may contain irritants). Adding oatmeal (Aveeno Bath Treatment) to the bathwater, however, can be soothing.

•      Pat (don't rub) yourself dry. Moisturize with nonirritant cream, vegetable oil, or petroleum jelly (Vaseline) within three minutes after bathing and as often as necessary to keep skin from becoming scaly. (Moisturizers work best on wet skin.)

•      Avoid lotions that contain water and alcohol; they have a drying effect. Greasy ointments axe better absorbed than creams.

•  Minimize contact with household cleaners, dyes, chemicals, body-care goods, fragrances, cosmet­ics, and products such as jewelry or watchbands that might contain nickel. Lanolin, an oil ob­ tained from sheep, and Quarterrvium-15, a preservative in shampoos and lotions, are also frequent sensitizers.

• Wear gloves for dishwashing and household chores, but be wary of latex.

For mild itching, ask your doctor or pharmacist for an OTC anti-itch medication. "Calamine doesn't do much," says dermatologist Dr. John H. Epstein. "If the rash is  eeping, you can use cool water compresses." But don't use them for more than two or three days, as they can be drying.

•      Use medication immediately after a bath or a soak to increase absorption.

•      Wear loose, lightweight cotton clothing; no heavy wools or synthetics.

•      Change or rotate the brand of laundry detergent you use.

•      Trim your nails. Scratching can lead to infection.

•      Avoid extremes or rapid changes of temperature.

•      Avoid strenuous activity or exercise. Sweat can aggravate the rash.

•      Recognize and reduce stress. It leads to itching.