Ten Practical Tips & Hints

1. Bath in warm water not hot.  Heat increases the itch.  Do not use bubble baths which contain detergents and will irritate the skin.
2. Avoid soap which is drying to the skin, use a soap substitute instead.
3. Apply emollients frequently and liberally.
4. Immediately after bathing apply emollient as this will help trap the water under it and thereby aid re-hydration.
5. Small children and the elderly should use a bath mat as emollients can make the bath slippery.
6. Wash clothes in the minimum effective quantity of non-biological, un-perfumed washing powder.  Give clothes an extra rinse.  Avoid fabric conditioners.
7. Wear cotton or silk next to the skin.  Wool and man-made fibres can irritate the skin.  Use cotton sheets and duvet covers.
8. Keep bedrooms cool, overheating makes eczema worse.  Warm, moist environments also encourage house dust mites.
9. Keep pets out of the bedroom, animal dander can make eczema worse.
10. Regular damp dusting and vacuuming will help to keep the dust levels down.

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