Atopic Dermatitis
(Eczema)
Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) Research in Portland, Oregon
Eczema is a skin condition in which patients have dry skin that is often easily irritated and may itch frequently. Skin care is important for people with eczema and proper skin treatment can prevent irritation and minimize itching.
Treating Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)
It is important to use a cream moisturizer daily like Cetaphil, Cerave or Eucerin (use a cream, NOT a lotion). Ointments like Vaseline or Aquaphor are even more hydrating than creams and can be applied after bathing or at night before bed. Apply moisturizer within 3 minutes after bathing and reapply throughout the day as needed.
When bathing it is important to use a non-soap cleanser or a mild soap with warm to luke-warm water. Bathing every day will not make your skin drier as long as you use a cream moisturizer within a few minutes. We recommend unscented soap for bathing such as Dove unscented bar soap, Cetaphil bar soap or cleanser, or Cerave cleanser.
- Avoid irritating fabrics such as wool or synthetics
- Avoid perfumes
- Try not to over heat your home as this decreases the humidity in the air and can make your skin dry
- Avoid laundry detergents, dryer sheets etc that have fragrance. We recommend that you use the free and clear lines
Additional information can be found at the National Eczema Foundation web site: www.nationaleczema.org
