We all have our problems with Eczema, always looking for a quick fix to our skin problems, so here are some useful Eczema hacks that you can consider!
Before applying any of these hacks, do note that do not guarantee improvement in symptoms. Always consult a doctor or dermatologist before doing any drastic changes in your routine.
Meditation
When we stress, we scratch more. There is even research on the matter showing a strong link between stress and skin conditions.
So why Meditation? It is something any of us can start doing, as it requires absolutely NOTHING! Meditation has shown to improve stress levels which will do wonders for your skin. There are different types of meditation, so find the right type for you.
For myself, I tend to listen to music and stare outside to meditate. It gives me that soothing feeling and clears my mind. Not for everyone! You can try using apps or watching videos on YouTube to get an idea of what may be effective for you.
An app you can try is Calm. It has been downloaded over 50 million times with over 700,00 5-star reviews. Numerous awards and it is primarily used for sleep, meditation and relaxation.
Lotion and Cloths in the Fridge
I cannot stress enough how much relief this can give out. A fridge is used to store food in a cool temperature, but have you ever thought of putting your moisturizing lotions in there? What about a cloth?
When we get flare-ups, our skin is irritated and can heat up. Applying cold moisturizing lotion can help cool down the area and reduce inflammation and bring relief. This is especially great for those in hot weather! A great way to get that quick relief inside your home.
Top tip, if you have the space, I highly suggest you get a mini fridge so you can separate your moisturizing lotions to your food. We don’t want any contamination.
Manicure
This is not a joke, go for a manicure!
What do we utilise when we scratch? Our nails. When we are trapped in a scratch cycle, it can be nearly impossible to stop scratching if you have nails that give you a ‘satisfying relief’. Having a manicure can make you resist this urge even more so.
Cutting and filing your nails will have a massive effect on the way you scratch. It will soften the impact of itching and scratching. False nails don’t do as much damage as a natural nail, as they have a softer and smoother surface.
Also note when we scratch with our nails, do you know kind of bacteria is stored under your nail? Remember our hands come in contact with many different surfaces and products. When we scratch, we open up the skin, making it more prone to infection.
So manicures everyone! Treat yourself.
Swap Your Laundry Detergent
What does your skin come in contact with the most during the day? Your clothes! What product does your skin come in contact with the most? Detergent! You even sleep in bed sheets that are washed in… you guess it detergent!
So take the time to research in a detergent that is compatible with your skin. Classic laundry detergents are often heavily fragranced which is not good for us Eczema sufferers. Fragrance can irritate our skin. With the wrong detergent, your skin is getting triggered for the majority of the day.
I highly suggest you go for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic detergents. Go for brands that are proven in the sensitive skin option.
Be wary of your fabric softener as well. Same applies, check the ingredients and see if it is compatible with your skin.
Soft Fabrics
Last but not least, choose the right fabrics to wear. Your skin needs to be able to breath to prevent mass amounts of sweat. Sweat can irritate skin, so wear sensible clothing to avoid itching.
Natural wool should be avoided. Wool retains heat and the texture consistency triggers our skin, giving us the high urge to itch. Soft cotton or linen are your best choices. Patch testing is highly recommended to determine what fabrics you are sensitive to.
Also, go for loose fitting clothes. Tight clothing can rub onto the skin too much, causing flare ups. Just like when you go to bed, wear something that is comfortable and gives your skin the ability to move freely.
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