along and you’re stuck wondering why you have to be the chosen one. Story of your life, right? Now, that skin condition, especially eczema, has you playing hide and seek because you can’t afford to go down on the cool-girl chart.

The misconception that eczema is as a result of poor hygiene doesn’t seem to pacify the situation. I mean, who wants to walk around having people avoid them with so much judgment? Well, first off, eczema isn’t a result of poor hygiene. Secondly, just like acne, eczema is a skin condition that can affect anyone, including adults. Symptoms may include itchy, dry, sore, cracked, and red skin.

What causes Eczema?

The exact cause of eczema isn’t known but it can majorly be gotten through a dip into the gene pool (heredity). Eczema is believed to be linked to an overactive response by the body’s immune system to what it presumes to be an irritant. So certain soaps, detergents, and other chemicals that come into contact with the skin could be judged an irritant by the immune system of someone prone to eczema.

In addition, exposure to other allergens and infection with certain bacteria and viruses can also cause adult eczema. Extreme weather conditions and being around certain pets and dust have also been known to result in eczema.

Can Eczema be treated?

Yes, eczema can be treated but not cured, particularly if it’s the mild variations. However, even the most severe cases can be adequately controlled with symptoms such as itching and dryness becoming almost non-existent. For this to happen, you need to be well equipped with the right tools to enable you win this fight with the condition.

Check out these tips to help you bring eczema in adults under control…

#1. Moisturize

Frequent application of moisturizers and creams that help protect the skin’s moisture barrier goes a long way in alleviating eczema symptoms. Opt for perfume/fragrance-free moisturizers and variations loaded with ceramides which help build up the skin’s moisture barrier.

Creams with moisture-locking glycerin and shea butter are also top options for eczema-prone skin. The drier the skin, the greasier the moisturizer you’ll need.

#2. Other over-the-counter treatments

OTC treatments, such as hydrocortisone 1% cream, or prescription creams and ointments containing corticosteroids, are typically prescribed to treat inflammation. In cases where the affected area becomes infected, your dermatologist may prescribe antibiotics to destroy the infection-causing bacteria.

#3. Use steroid creams

Steroid creams get a lot of heat because of the side effects they bring but they are found to be of good help in treating itching and inflammation. A dermatologist must, however, be on the recommending end.

#4. Use calcineurin inhibitors

If your skin doesn’t respond to topical steroids or the eczema is located in a place on your body that is sensitive such as your eyelids or armpits, Calcineurin inhibitors is your best option but should only be used at the direction and prescription of a dermatologist.

#5. LED or oral treatment

If severe or widespread eczema persists, phototherapy/light treatment is a great option to consider. It involves dampening down the immune system under the supervision of a dermatologist. Light therapy is a common treatment for a number of conditions ranging from eczema to depression.

Other treatments include antihistamines and tar treatments to curb severe itching and the drug cyclosporine for people whose condition doesn’t respond to other treatments.

#6. Eat foods that help treat eczema

Like with everything health-related, what we eat plays a big role in speeding up or slowing down our treatment process. So, as a bonus, here are foods that help the fight against adult eczema:

1. Banana: High in potassium.

2. Beef or chicken broth: Provides skin-repairing amino acid glycine.

3. Green onions: Rich source of vitamin K, important for healthy skin.

4. Potato: Rich in fibre, potassium and vitamin C.

5. Rice milk: Low allergy and low in chemicals and considered eczema safe

6. Buckwheat: Gluten-free and has a strong effect

7. Mung bean sprouts: Strong alkalizing food

The state of a person’s skin can affect their mood and eventually their overall well-being. When you’re not pleased with your skin, frustration may set in, leaving you embarrassed and isolated. It’s encouraging to know that you’re not alone in this and if you apply the above tips, it really does get better.

Featured image: cottonbro | Pexels

Medical Disclaimer

All content found on StyleRave.com Website, including text, images, audio, video, and other formats is created for informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this Website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor, go to the nearest hospital or call 911 immediately depending on your conditions.

For the latest in fashion, lifestyle and culture, follow us on Instagram @StyleRave_

This is a Style Rave original content exclusively created for our readers. If reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached, or otherwise used by any other publishing house or blogs, such use should provide a direct link to this source article. Use of and/or registration on any portion of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.

—Read also