Biologics for eczema
These are man-made medications with proteins from living tissues or cells. They calm your immune system, easing inflammation and eczema symptoms. You get them through a shot under your skin or a needle in your vein. They are usually recommended when other treatments haven’t worked.
Antihistamines for eczema
If you have eczema, you also have a higher chance of having allergies, which can make your skin condition worse. Antihistamines can help control the inflammation and itch from allergies.
Ultraviolet (UV) light can help treat moderate to severe eczema. UV rays help keep the immune system from overreacting and can reduce inflammation and itching. Phototherapy is usually prescribed to treat the whole body or a small area, such as your hands.
Narrow-band UVB light is the most common type used to treat eczema. But you might also get treated with UVA light. During this treatment, you stand in a cabinet with a light-emitting machine, wearing goggles and minimal clothing, such as underwear. Treatment sessions last just seconds to minutes. It might take a couple of months and multiple sessions for you to start seeing results. Your doctor may recommend combining phototherapy with other treatments.
When you keep your skin healthy, you can prevent dryness, itching, and redness; it also may lessen the need for medication. Plus, it feels good to pamper yourself. Try these tips:
1. Bathe only in warm water.
Hot water dries out the skin. Wash with a gentle cleanser instead of soap. Don’t use body scrubbers or washcloths, which can be irritating. Pat dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing, and be sure to leave your skin damp.
2. Apply moisturizers daily.
Do it right after you bathe or wash your hands. Choose fragrance-free moisturizers that won’t irritate you. Try using a thicker skin cream or ointment that has more oil at night, and wear cotton gloves or socks to lock in moisture. Gloves can also keep you from scratching in your sleep.
3. Avoid too much bathing and handwashing.
It will dry out your skin. Steer clear of alcohol-based hand cleaners, too.
4. Limit your contact with skin irritants.
Household cleaners, laundry detergents, perfumed soaps, bubble baths, cosmetics, and many other things can make eczema worse. Learn what irritates your skin so you can avoid it.
5. Choose cotton clothes that fit comfortably.
Wool and synthetic fibers can be irritating. Also, be sure to wash new clothes before you wear them for the first time. Use fragrance-free laundry soap, and rinse your laundry thoroughly.
6. Avoid getting overheated.
When you’re hot and sweaty, it can trigger itching and scratching. After a workout, rinse off right away in a warm shower.
7. Know your triggers.
Many people with eczema react to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, animal dander, and mold.
8. Ease stress.
It can be hard to find time to relax, but lowering your stress level will help you avoid symptom flare-ups.
