Eczema IN NAGS HEAD, NC

Eczema is a skin condition caused by inflammation that causes dry, red, itchy skin. Usually, the chronic condition affects children, and they grow out of it by the time they reach adulthood.

Genetic factors and an overactive immune system contribute to eczema. Some people are born with extra sensitive skin. Some researchers also theorize that a skin barrier defect allows moisture to escape from the skin and germs to enter.

One of the best ways to prevent eczema is to moderate the factors that cause flare-ups. These include:

• Stress
• Exposure to irritating materials or substances
• Sweat
• Cold, dry environments

Keeping stress to a minimum helps lower your immune response. Take breaks when you need to, make sure you get enough sleep, and practice stress-relieving exercises to reduce that inflammatory response.

If you think a specific hand soap or detergent might be causing your eczema, try using a milder soap to see if that helps. Also try applying NEUTROGENA NORWEGIAN FORMULA HAND CREAM frequently throughout the day and at bedtime. If a substance at your job causes skin irritation, try using gloves and minimizing your exposure.

Wear breathable clothing in the summer and keep your skin moisturized in the winter. Long, hot showers also deplete the skin of moisture, so try to shorten your shower and use lukewarm water. Humidifiers and proper hydration help keep your skin replenished from inside out.

If nothing else helps, try hydrocortisone and anti-itch creams to reduce inflammation. Then, make an appointment our providers at Outer Banks Dermatology for professional evaluation and treatment recommendations. Since there is often no “cure” for eczema, the goal is often to treat symptoms and bring relief from flare-ups, as well as to identify possible causes of those flare-ups.