How to Break the Itch-Scratch Cycle if You Have Severe Eczema
If you have eczema, you know how important it is to avoid the itch-scratch cycle. Many people who have the condition feel like they’re at the mercy of their skin, which seems to be screaming at them every few minutes to scratch it with anything and everything at hand. In fact, scratching your skin can leave it dryer, more irritated and inflamed than before. Read on to learn how to break the itch-scratch cycle if you have severe eczema and finally get some relief from your symptoms.
- Stay moisturised
The most important thing you can do to break the itch-scratch cycle is moisturise. Moisturising your skin can help prevent dryness and itching. Dry skin is a major cause of eczema, so it's vital that you keep it hydrated with a quality lotion or cream. Keep in mind that creams are generally better for dry skin, while lotions are better for oily skin (or during winter). Experiment with different types of moisturisers until you find one that works well with your skin type. It may take some trial and error before you find something that will work best for your eczema symptoms.
- Use Cold Water
Eczema is a skin condition that causes dry, itchy, inflamed patches. If you have severe eczema and are trying to find ways on how to break the itch-scratch cycle, start by using cold water. Cold water can help soothe your skin and reduce itching. Try soaking in cold water or taking a shower with colder water than usual for 10 minutes or more each day.
- Take Vitamin B12 and Omega-3 Supplements
If you have severe eczema, your doctor may prescribe an oral medication. However, there are also some lifestyle changes you can make to help break the itch-scratch cycle. One of these is taking vitamin B12 and omega-3 supplements. These are known for their ability to lessen redness and inflammation in skin conditions such as eczema. The best way to get these nutrients is through dietary means (i.e., through food). For example, seafood contains a lot of omega-3s and dairy products contain a lot of vitamin B12.
- Use Lotions
If you have severe eczema, using lotions will not be enough. Your skin is too damaged and your symptoms are probably worsening. So what should you do? Seek help from a dermatologist. They may prescribe a stronger steroid cream or an antihistamine that can reduce the inflammation and itching. You can also try other treatments such as UVB phototherapy (a special light treatment for people with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis) or allergy shots (injections of allergy medications). However, do not rely on steroid creams for long periods of time. This can cause withdrawal symptoms.
- Try Anti-Itching Creams and Ointments
Prescription treatments for eczema are usually more effective than over-the-counter preparations. There are many different prescription anti-itch creams and ointments available, so you should discuss your options with your doctor. One option is an ointment called tacrolimus (Protopic), which can help heal and relieve redness as well as reduce itching. Another option is hydrocortisone cream (1% or 2%), which can be used on small areas of eczema. However, it's important to note that corticosteroids have side effects such as thinning of skin that may also lead to infections.
- Use Herbal Remedies
There are a number of herbal remedies that can help break the itch-scratch cycle and soothe your eczema. Here are some of our favorites: -Calendula cream is soothing, healing, and anti-inflammatory, making it great for very dry skin. -Plantain leaf is a natural antiseptic and antihistamine, helping heal skin without any adverse reactions or side effects. -Lavender essential oil can help heal dry patches of eczema by soothing irritated skin and reducing redness. Plus, it smells great!
- Avoid Irritating Items in Your Home & Clothes
If you are dealing with severe eczema, you may have a hard time resisting the urge to scratch your skin. If this is the case, it's important that you avoid wearing clothes that irritate your skin and using household items that cause more itching. Here are some things to avoid: wool, scratchy fabrics such as denim or silk, and anything else that can cause irritation.
- Relax
It is important for people with severe eczema to remain as stress free and relaxed as possible. One of the best ways to reduce stress is by practicing deep breathing exercises. Find a comfortable position and then inhale deeply through your nose, taking in as much air as you can. Hold it for a few seconds and then slowly exhale through your mouth while making a whoosh sound. Repeat this cycle several times until you feel calm and ready to go back about your day.
- Use KARE Eczema Soother Toner
Caring for eczema can be a challenge, but it doesn't have to be! KARE Eczema Soother Toner is a gentle, alcohol-free solution that helps soothe severely dry and irritated skin without being harsh or toxic. This toner is made with Bitter Orange extract, Organic Vegetable Glycerine, Organic Fruit Acids and water. The natural ingredients work together to help prevent the itching sensation that leads people with eczema to scratch and further irritate their skin.
To combat eczema breakouts, try using KARE Soother Toner each day. Spritz it onto the skin and gently pat it in to dry. Repeat as needed throughout each day as needed. Pair it together with the KARE Body Soother Cream to soothe and moisturise the skin.
- Avoid allergens
It can be difficult to avoid allergens, but there are steps you can take. First, find out what you're allergic too. If you know your triggers, keep a diary of the different times and places when your eczema flares up and make note of any common denominators like food or other substances that might be triggering it. Try not to go into areas where you know there is something that will trigger a flare up, such as grocery stores for instance. If you absolutely must enter an area where there are allergens present, try wearing gloves and taking antihistamines before going in.
Conclusion
Eczema is a skin condition that causes extreme dryness and itchiness. If you have eczema, it's important to use your medication as directed and see a dermatologist for treatment, but there are also other things you can do to combat this condition. For instance, moisturizing before bedtime can help with the dryness. In addition, using products such as KARE Eczema Soother Toner can be helpful as well. Finally, wearing moisture wicking clothes can prevent breakouts of your eczema and keep you from having to itch all day long!