Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, affects people of all ages, although it is more common in infants and children than in adults. The condition causes the formation of red, rough, scaly patches on the skin that may weep and itch severely. Eczema is more common in people with a family history of allergies, asthma or atopic dermatitis. To be effective, treatment for eczema typically requires lifestyle changes and a combination of therapies, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).
Step 1
Keep a diary to help determine what triggers and worsens your eczema flare-ups. The AAD states that a diary is a useful tool when looking for the causes of eczema and when designing an effective treatment plan.
Step 2
Use an OTC topical medication to treat mild cases of eczema. Topical hydrocortisone creams are effective at reducing the itching and inflammation associated with eczema. Avoid using prescription-strength steroid medications on the diaper area or face, unless you are specifically instructed to do so by your doctor. OTC strengths are available for use on these areas.
Step 3
Take short baths in lukewarm water; avoid harsh soaps and bubble baths. Do not scrub affected areas of the skin during bathing. The Mayo Clinic recommends adding a bit of colloidal or uncooked oatmeal to bathwater to dry out weeping patches and to reduce itching.
Step 4
Apply moisturizer to the affected skin every day, immediately after bathing and the application of topical medications. Thick moisturizing ointments or oil-based lubricants are more effective at holding in moisture than traditional, water-based lotions.
Step 5
Try an OTC antihistamine to control itching until other treatment options take effect. Applying a damp cloth to itchy areas may also help.
Step 6
Try an oral medication to treat severe cases of eczema. Oral steroids are effective at treating eczema that occurs over large portions of the body. Immunomodulatory drugs, such as pimecrolimus and tacrolimus, may also be beneficial. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) states that immunomodulatory medications are associated with a possible cancer risk and urges eczema patients to discuss this risk with their doctor before using these medications.
Step 7
Undergo phototherapy, which involves exposing the skin to controlled amounts of sunlight, to help get rid of eczema. The Mayo Clinic states that phototherapy may also help prevent recurrence of eczema.
Step 8
Avoid allergic triggers whenever possible. Exposure to environmental irritants, ingestion of some foods and the use of perfumes or certain laundry detergents and soaps may cause or worsen eczema in some people, according to the NIH.
Tips and Warnings
- Evening primrose oil, omega-3 fatty acids and chamomile or calendula creams may help get rid of eczema, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Things You'll Need
- Over-the-counter (OTC) hydrocortisone cream
- Colloidal oatmeal
- Moisturizing ointment
- OTC antihistamine
