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Enhanced cell division caused by sensitivity
to various substances such as soap, fabric or metal, or to environmental
conditions such as heat or dryness. This produces patches of dry,
swollen, reddened, itchy skin. In more severe cases these patches
can thicken and develop blisters, a scale-like texture, or oozing
sores. There are many different types of eczema, each one ending
with the word dermatitis. Here are a few common forms...
Contact dermatitis is an
allergy to a chemical or material such as the following:
- Poison ivy
- Laundry detergent or other cleaning products
- Metals
- Jewelry or watches
- Glasses (commonly occurring where the ear
pieces touch the skin)
- Rubber
- Perfume or cosmetics
Neurodermatitis occurs
when a tight garment or strap rubs or scratches the skin.
Seborrheic dermatitis
A stubborn, itchy dandruff, which creates greasy, scaling areas
on the sides of your nose, between your eyebrows, behind your ears
or over your breastbone.
Treatment for eczema
Identify and avoid direct
contact with irritants.
Soak the irritated skin
in water for 20 to 30 minutes per day.
Avoid scratching.
If you can't control yourself, cover the itchy area with a dressing,
trim your nails and wear gloves at night.
Dress appropriately to avoid
excessive sweating.
Wear smooth-textured cotton
clothing. Avoid wool carpeting, wool bedding and wool clothes.
Take good care of yourself.
Eczema can show up when you're stressed or when you're neglecting
your health. Get sleep, eat well, exercise and you'll be more
resistant to it.
Keep your skin moisturized...
- Take fewer and shorter showers or baths.
Use lukewarm water.
- Don't use a lot of soap, or use mild
moisturizing superfatted soaps such as Basis or Dove.
- Shampoo with a moisturizing shampoo.
- Pat your skin dry.
- Apply an oil or water-in-oil moisturizing
cream immediately after drying.
- Avoid any skin or hair products containing
alcohol.
- Use a humidifier at home while you sleep.
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