| Eczema is a skin rash that has symptoms which | | | | deodorants and shampoos if you have a history of |
| include dry, itchy and reddened skin patches. Some | | | | allergies in your family and past incidents yourself. |
| people notice that their dermatitis is worsened or | | | | Air-conditioners |
| stimulated by a response to chemicals in the | | | | Do not over heat or over-cool your house. |
| environment. Many people with eczema have | | | | Air-conditioners can dry out the air and irritate your |
| hypersensitive skin which can be irritated by regular | | | | skin. Also be sure to clean out the air filters as often |
| household chemicals. Some products you may need | | | | as every month to avoid allergens that can |
| to avoid if you have this condition are: | | | | aggravate the skin. Abrupt changes in temperature |
| Laundry detergents or fabric conditioners | | | | should also be avoided. Adding humidity can be helpful |
| Some detergents and fabric softeners can worsen | | | | to moisturize the skin as dry skin may increase itching |
| the condition of the skin. Rinse clothes thoroughly | | | | and flaknig. |
| after washing by using the rinse cycle again after the | | | | Environmental Issues |
| initial wash and use less detergent than indicated and | | | | Some people with resistant eczema find it helpful to |
| choose a low fragrance product. Check ingredients | | | | reduce exposure to a wide range of known allergens. |
| carefully to find something that is fragance-free and | | | | These can include house dust mites, mold, pollen and |
| listed for hypoallergenic users. | | | | pet hair can all create allergic rashes in individuals. |
| Chlorine | | | | Abrupt changes in temperature should also be |
| Chlorinated pools and spas can be an irritant for | | | | avoided. |
| some individuals. If you really want to or have to | | | | Foods |
| swim in a chlorinated pool, cover the skin with a | | | | If you notice that your eczema appears to worsen |
| waterproof barrier cream like petroleum jelly | | | | after eating a particular food, (dairy, corn, etc) you |
| beforehand. | | | | may want to see your doctor for allergy testing. |
| Cosmetics | | | | Never self-diagnose, or deprive yourself of nutritious |
| When using a new product, be sure to test it on a | | | | foods unless you are sure that it is causing a |
| small area of the skin, like the ankle. If there is a | | | | negative reaction. Write things down to document |
| reaction there, be sure not to use the product. This | | | | the foods you eat and see if you can correlate this |
| can include moisturizers, makeup, shampoos and | | | | with your eruption times. |
| after-shave lotions. You can find alternative products | | | | It is important to remember what to avoid and what |
| that will say dermatologist tested in drug stores or | | | | you can to prevent causing or aggravating skin |
| check in health food stores for items gentle to the | | | | irritation. Remember to always check with your |
| skin. | | | | doctor before making any changes that may cause |
| Perfumes | | | | health risks. |
| It is best to avoid all perfumes, fragranced lotions, | | | | |