Hi. I assume you've been to the doctor. Here are some things I've learned as a fellow eczema sufferer:
- Avoid soaps with cetyl alcohol, sodium laurel sulfate or sodium laureth sulfate, or methyl/propyl/butyl paraben in the ingredients. They can cause your skin to dry out and itch. You may really have to search for a soap that won't cause your skin to flare up. I use a goat's milk soap without SLS that I buy in bulk. It's cheaper than going to the store and getting something full of chemicals.
- Do the same with shampoo, since you can also break out on your head. I use the Magick shampoo and conditioner - I have found it to be the least irritating to my scalp even when it's got breakouts on it.
- Take showers as cool as possible. Heat dries out the skin and can cause increased itching. Also, in the winter, if at all possible, shower every other day and on the off days, use a washcloth and soap on the parts of your body that touch other parts - armpits, groin area, neck. The rest, unless sweaty from a workout, really doesn't need to be scrubbed every single day. Good hygiene can be accomplished and maintained without a daily shower in the winter in most climates.
- When toweling off, avoid vigorous scrubbing. Blot your body dry instead, and leave the last few droplets of water to evaporate. The friction caused by heavy drying actions can cause skin irritation.
- After showering use a non-alcohol-containing lotion all over your body. Try to avoid lotions with petrolatum since that is just vaseline and it doesn't breathe. Some good lotions are Lubriderm, Curel, and Moisturel. I have goat's milk lotion that I use for my face since it is more sensitive than the rest of my body.
- Wear natural clothing whenever possible. Avoid synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, lycra and spandex. Hemp, cotton, rayon, wool and the like are better for your body because they allow the skin to breathe and moisture to evaporate. If it's cold you're better off layering instead of wearing heavy synthetic fabrics at least against your skin.
- If the irritation continues, please see your doctor. There are some prescription meds that can help with severe flareups.
I hope this helps.
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