Your Dry Skin Could be Eczema

Living in Idaho exposes you to certain environmental factors that can affect the dryness of your skin. The dry air and strong winds can be damaging to exposed skin and can reveal skin conditions you previously may not have noticed due to the moisture in the air. Eczema is one of those skin conditions. According to the National Eczema Foundation, over 30 million Americans are diagnosed with it. Eczema is a general term for rash-like skin conditions. Symptoms include itching, redness, and sometimes skin will blister or peel. It most often appears as a mild, moderate, or severe itch that can affect different parts of your body. This itch can be so intense you scratch your skin until it bleeds, which can make your rash worse. This leads to inflammation and is known as the itch-scratch cycle.  

Signs and Symptoms of Eczema:

• Dry, sensitive skin
• Intense itching
• Red, inflamed skin
• Recurring rash
• Scaly areas
• Rough, leathery patches
• Oozing or crusting
• Areas of swelling
• Dark colored patches of skin

Common causes:

• Long hot showers/baths
• Dry environment
• Perspiration from exercise
• Low humidity
• Stress

 Other causes and triggers:

• Shampoos, dish-washing liquids
• Molds
• Dandruff
• Dust mites
• Bacteria or virus
• Hormone fluctuation
• Food allergens

Treatment - Take good care of  your skin!

1. Moisturize every day.
2. Wear cotton or soft fabrics. Avoid clothing that is rough or tight.
3. Use mild soap or non-soap cleanser.
4. Pat dry your skin with a soft towel- do not rub.
5. Apply moisturizer within 3 minutes of a shower or bath to lock in moisture.
6. Use a humidifier.
7. Keep your fingernails short to keep scratching from breaking the skin.
8. Keep a clean house free of dander and dust.

Common Moisturizers

Aquphor®, Cetaphil^®, Curél^®, Eucerine®, Exederm, and Petroleum Jelly.

For more information go to http://nationaleczema.org/eczema/