DEALING WITH ECZEMA
Over 31 million people in the US suffer from eczema.1 But there are lots of things that can be done to manage eczema and help relieve the itch.
Atopic dermatitis (more commonly referred to as eczema) typically presents itself as dry patches of skin that appear red and feel itchy. It’s most common in children but can occur at any age.2
Your dermatologist can determine whether you have eczema or not. And while the itch from eczema can be really irritating (especially for infants and young children), the good news is there are medicines and proven home remedies that can help ease the itch.
ECZEMA TRIGGERS AND CAUSES
While we don’t know for certain what causes eczema, we do know that eczema causes itch. Eczema sufferers tend to have a highly active immune system. When triggered, their immune system responds by producing inflammation. This inflammation, in turn, causes the red and itchy skin symptoms found with most types of eczema.3
Researchers believe eczema is rooted in a combination of genes and triggers, with the most common triggers being dry skin, irritants, and stress.3
IRRITANTS
Unfortunately, there are lots of things we encounter every day that can cause eczema to show itself. Some of the most common irritants are metals, cigarette smoke, soaps and cleaners, fragrances, fabrics, and antibacterial ointments.3 And while it might be tough to avoid everything on this list, fragrance-free soaps and detergents are a good starting point.
STRESS
This one is a bit of a catch-22 — some people’s eczema gets worse when they’re feeling stressed, and just the thought of dealing with eczema can stress a person out.3 There are no easy answers to the stress issue, but knowing about the different eczema treatment options could help you breathe a little easier.
TIPS FOR RELIEVING ECZEMA ITCH
Parents of kids with eczema, and eczema sufferers themselves, may sometimes feel like nothing can stop the itch. Enlisting the help of a dermatologist will help provide a long-term plan. But for some immediate relief from the itch caused by eczema, try these dermatologist-recommended home remedies.4
APPLY A COOL COMPRESS
Soak a clean washcloth in cool water, then wring out water so the cloth is damp. Apply the cool compress to itchy skin. After removing the compress, apply moisturizer to the affected area.4
ADD COLLOIDAL OATMEAL TO A BATH
Colloidal oatmeal helps relieve dry, itchy skin and can be purchased at most drugstores. Simply add the colloidal oatmeal to warm water, then soak for 15-30 minutes as directed on the product labeling. After the bath, towel dry gently, leaving skin slightly damp. Apply moisturizer.4
SOAK IN A BATH AND APPLY OINTMENT
After soaking in a lukewarm bath, apply a thick layer of moisturizing ointment. When the skin is very itchy, an eczema-friendly ointment like petroleum jelly provides more relief than a cream or lotion.4
DISTRACT THE PATIENT
This tip is designed for children and includes activities like playing peek-a-boo and telling them a story.4 But the same logic applies to eczema sufferers of all ages. Getting engaged in activity can help take your mind off itchy skin.
TRY TO STAY CALM
This is another one that dermatologists recommend for parents of eczema sufferers, and it also applies to all ages. Stress has been shown to cause eczema flare-ups, so do what you can to create and maintain calm.4
PINCH THE SKIN NEAR THE ITCHY SPOTS
Yes, we were all taught not to scratch itchy irritations like mosquito bites, but a gentle pinch can actually reduce the itch. Just be sure to pinch near, not on, the affected area.4
CORTIZONE-10® IS HERE TO FIGHT ITCH
If you find yourself with an itch to scratch, we can help. Cortizone-10® products contain the maximum-strength hydrocortisone available over the counter to provide temporary itch relief. Our products help relieve symptoms including itch associated with minor skin irritations, inflammation, and rashes due to eczema, psoriasis, insect bites, detergents, jewelry, cosmetics, soaps, seborrheic dermatitis, poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, external anal itching, and external genital itching — including feminine itch.
That's why we're the #1 Doctor Recommended OTC Topical Anti-Itch Brand.*
Maximum Strength Itch Relief Lotion for Eczema contains the maximum-strength hydrocortisone available over the counter. It’s specially formulated to help relieve the itching and discomfort associated with minor skin irritations, rashes, and inflammation due to eczema.
Maximum Strength Itch Relief Lotion for Psoriasis with maximum-strength hydrocortisone is specially formulated to relieve the itching and discomfort associated with minor skin irritations and rashes due to psoriasis.
Maximum Strength Itch Relief Lotion for Diabetics' Skin contains maximum-strength hydrocortisone. It’s clinically tested and shown to be non-irritating on diabetics' skin when used as directed.
Maximum Strength Overnight Itch Relief Cream is formulated with hydrocortisone to calm and soothe itch while you sleep.
Maximum Strength Ultra Moisturizing Anti-Itch Cream contains 10 moisturizers to make skin feel softer. It helps relieve itch associated with minor skin irritations and rashes due to insect bites, poison ivy, psoriasis, and more.
Maximum Strength Itch Relief Cream With Aloe contains maximum-strength hydrocortisone and aloe to help soothe your skin. It’s just right for relieving itch associated with minor skin irritations due to insect bites, poison ivy, and more.
Maximum Strength Itch Relief Cooling Gel brings a cooling sensation and cools skin on contact. Helps relieve itch associated with minor skin irritations, inflammation, and rashes due to insect bites, poison ivy, eczema, psoriasis, and more.
Maximum Strength Itch Relief Easy Relief Applicator is the no-mess way to help relieve itch associated with minor skin irritations and rashes due to insect bites, poison ivy, psoriasis, and more.
*2023 IQVIA Study
REFERENCES
1. Nationaleczema.org, editors. Eczema stats, 2021. National Eczema Association.
2. Mayoclinic.org, editors. Atopic dermatitis (eczema). Mayo Clinic.
3. Nationaleczema.org, editors. Eczema Causes and Triggers. National Eczema Association.
4. AAD.org, editors. HOME REMEDIES: WHAT CAN RELIEVE ITCHY ECZEMA? American Academy of Dermatology Association.
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