The key to staying healthy while living with eczema is to keep symptoms under control. For most types of eczema, managing the condition and its symptoms comes down to these basics:

• Know your triggers
• Implement a regular bathing and moisturizing routine
• Use OTC and/or prescription medication consistently and as prescribed
• Watch for signs of infection — pus-filled bumps, pain, redness, heat — on the skin

Some other things you can do to help manage eczema symptoms:

• Cultivate a care team of providers who are expert in treating eczema to help you find the right treatment.
• Recognize stressful situations and events — and learn to avoid or cope with them by using techniques for stress management. You may do this on your own, or with the help of your doctor or psychologist.
• Tap into the wisdom of other people coping with eczema.
• Try not to scratch and rub the affected skin — and limit contact with materials or substances that may irritate your skin. Dress in soft, breathable clothing and avoid itchy fabrics like wool, that can further irritate your eczema.

What treatments and medications are available for eczema?

There is no cure for eczema but there are treatments, and more are coming. Depending on the type of eczema and severity, treatments include lifestyle changes, over-the-counter (OTC) remedies, prescription topical, oral and injectable medications, phototherapy and biologic drugs.

Remember that eczema symptoms can be different for everyone. Not everyone will respond to a treatment in the same way, so it’s best to familiarize yourself with all of the options and talk to your doctor to find a treatment regimen that works for you.

Common eczema treatments

OTC PRODUCTS

Over-the-counter (OTC) treatments are products or medications you can buy without a prescription. Some OTC eczema treatments are used for moisturizing skin; some are used to help skin symptoms such as rash, redness and itch; and some are for gently cleaning skin to prevent infection.

BATHING

The most effective way to treat dry skin is to give it the moisture it needs through proper bathing and moisturizing. Soak in a warm bath or take a shower and then moisturize immediately afterward (within three minutes). You can help calm specific symptoms of eczema by adding bleach, vinegar, salt, oatmeal or baking soda to your bath water.