What It Looks Like

People with eczema have itchy and dry skin. In fact, if there is no itch, you do not have eczema. The symptoms of eczema sometimes come and go.

Itchy and dry skin often happens before there are any visible signs of eczema on the skin. Other first signs include a tingling sensation, whitening, a tiny bump or a bit of redness. If scratching occurs at this stage, development of a flare is more likely.

How It Happens

The skin forms a protective barrier that keeps harmful toxins out and essential body fluids in. Eczema is triggered when irritants disrupt that protective barrier, or when allergens cause an immune response that leads to symptoms.

Irritants

This is a class of environmental triggers that do not cause an immune response. Examples of irritants include detergents and surfactants (such as soaps and shower gels). They can irritate the skin’s barrier by reducing the thickness of your skin and by diminishing the protective layer. Repeated use of surfactants makes the skin drier and more prone to irritation by other factors.

Allergens

These triggers differ from irritants because they do stimulate an immune response. Examples of allergens that can trigger eczema include certain foods (such as eggs, peanuts, soy and wheat) and inhaled allergens (such as house dust mites). Animal dander, climate, molds and cigarette smoke are also allergens that can trigger eczema. Most people with eczema have allergies like these, which lead to symptoms of their condition.

Flares of eczema may also be triggered by emotional turbulence, as well as by high heat/low humidity environments that cause water to evaporate from the skin.

Treatment & Tips

There is no cure for eczema, although sometimes children can outgrow it. Your doctor may prescribe one or more topical  medication(s) (applied to the skin) to treat the early signs and symptoms of eczema. Two commonly prescribed topical medications are:

• Topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs)
• Topical corticosteroids (TCSs)

It is important to use these products exactly as your doctor tells you, including how much and how long. Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor for clarification if you are not sure.

In order to manage irritants, consider these tips for avoiding triggers:

• Bathe using emollient oil.
• Avoid harsh fabrics/elastics in clothing.
• Avoid chlorine or solvents.
• Use mild laundry detergents; avoid bleach.
• Double-rinse clothing.

Skin Care Solutions

Some Cetaphil products were created specifically for dry, itchy skin. Find your perfect match then follow a daily regimen that includes cleansing, moisturizing and protecting your skin.