We all know that eczema is often the result of dry and irritated skin. If that’s the case, how should one keep clean through showers without their skin losing moisture? Thankfully, regular baths are still possible with a bit more attention. In this article, we share how you can effectively maintain personal hygiene without triggering eczema flare-ups.
Learn More: Condition Deep Dive: 5 Common Types of Eczema in Singapore
1. Soak and Seal Method
The soak and seal method is an eczema-friendly hygiene routine proven to retain moisture in the skin, which is particularly beneficial for individuals grappling with the condition. Start by soaking in a lukewarm bath for about 15 minutes. If you don’t live in a home with a bathtub, simply take a shower with a body wash for sensitive skin and lukewarm water, which helps to open pores without stripping away essential oils. Once you’re done, gently pat your skin with a clean and soft towel. Leave your skin slightly damp, then apply an eczema relief moisturizer to rehydrate. Allow it to absorb before dressing.
2. One Shower a Day
Limiting your showers to once a day helps to prevent the symptoms and dryness associated with frequent bathing. Constantly being exposed to water, especially those of the inappropriate temperature, can cause your skin to lose its natural oils and increase irritation. With an already weakened skin barrier, the skin will become more susceptible to flare-ups.
When showering, use lukewarm water and a body wash for sensitive skin to prevent any irritation and avoid excessive drying of the skin.
3. Shower Right Before Bed
It is usually recommended for eczema sufferers to shower right before bed because it contributes to better skin care management. The human skin naturally loses hydration during sleep. By bathing and moisturizing right before bed, you’re sealing in the moisture and creating a protective barrier to prevent your skin from drying out throughout the night. You may wish to consult with a dermatologist to devise a nighttime skincare routine for managing eczema.
4. Limit Use of Cleansers
Harsh cleansers can exacerbate conditions by stripping away natural oils and disrupting the delicate balance of the skin. Limiting their use can prevent further irritation and maintain the integrity of your skin barrier. However, that does not mean you have to steer clear of soaps. To protect your skin without compromising hygiene, opt for gentle cleansers formulated for sensitive skin or eczema. They are usually soothing and free from irritants that can trigger flare-ups. Look for products that do not contain sulfates, parabens, and alcohol.
5. Moisturize Regularly
Eczema sufferers are more susceptible to moisture loss due to the compromised skin barrier. Hence, regular moisturizing is essential in creating a protective layer of skin, preventing water from evaporating and maintaining an optimal level of hydration. Eczema relief moisturizers not only boost moisture levels, they also help with alleviating symptoms such as itching and irritation, promoting comfort and preventing further damage.
Looking for ways to better manage your skin condition? AweMed Series carries eczema-friendly products such as eczema body washes and moisturizers to help you alleviate symptoms. Shop the range here.
References
National Eczema Association. (2018). Steps to Soak and Seal [Digital Poster]. https://nationaleczema.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/FactSheet_SoakSeal_FINAL.pdf
National Eczema Association. (2022, March 14). Bathing and Eczema | National Eczema Association. https://nationaleczema.org/eczema/treatment/bathing/
Gupta, A. (2022, February 25). Showering twice a day can make your skin dry! Healthshots. https://www.healthshots.com/beauty/skin-care/can-too-much-bathing-cause-dry-skin-find-out-here/
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