Eczema is a disorder that causes dry, red and itchy patches to form. Fortunately, the mild forms are relatively easy to treat. Eczema affecting the face can usually be relieved with frequent application of a moisturizer. If that doesn't work, you should go to a dermatologist, who can prescribe a steroid cream to help combat the rash. You can also try various home remedies to relieve symptoms associated with eczema.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Treating a Mild Eczema
Step 1. Diagnose the type of eczema you have
The term "eczema" is quite broad and refers to many specific (but related) skin disorders. Symptoms associated with all types of eczema are dryness, redness and itching. Consequently, making a diagnosis is difficult. Some types of eczema are caused by allergies, autoimmune conditions, or excessive washing of the skin on the face.
- It will help you to look at the symptoms of eczema to determine the causes of the rash. Try keeping a journal to record what you eat, the actions you take to care for your skin, and any environmental factors that appear to be affecting eczema.
- Talk to a dermatologist to describe the symptoms of eczema, including how long it has lasted and any specific causes that have contributed to making it worse.
Step 2. Avoid environmental factors that tend to exacerbate eczema
In many cases, eczema can be triggered by external factors. For example, seasonal or food allergies and extreme temperatures (hot or cold) can cause this ailment. If you can pinpoint the variables that triggered eczema, try to avoid them as much as possible.
Many of these environmental factors can only be determined by repeating the experience. Consequently, if you notice that eczema occurs following the consumption of milk and dairy products, exclude them from your diet
Step 3. Apply a moisturizer to your face several times a day
You can apply a moisturizing face cream after showering or at other times. If you're worried about forgetting, try setting a reminder or jotting down the times you plan to put the product in a notebook. Apply the cream as often as possible, for example once an hour (or even every half hour).
If you don't know which creams are the most effective, ask your dermatologist to recommend one. Brands like Cetaphil, Eucerin and Aveeno usually allow for good results. Look for creams containing petroleum jelly and mineral oil, while avoiding those with added fragrances
Step 4. Take a lukewarm shower a day
Skin affected by eczema is quite dry, so moisturizing the epidermis is the main goal to aim for treating the disorder. Exposing your face to warm water is a great way to start the hydration process. However, avoid taking more than one shower a day, otherwise you risk drying your skin further.
If you find contact with warm water unpleasant, raise the temperature slightly. However, avoid washing with hot water, as this will dry out your skin
Step 5. Moisturize your face after a shower
Apply a moisturizer within 3 minutes after you get out of the shower. If you don't hydrate immediately, you risk drying your skin and exacerbating the symptoms of eczema.
Step 6. Use a mild soap when you wash yourself
The skin on the face is more sensitive and delicate than the rest of the body, so it tends to get irritated more easily. If you have eczema that affects your face, try replacing your usual soap with a more gentle product. Many cosmetic companies offer neutral or protective soap lines. Before buying one, read the label to make sure it is delicate or neutral.
Avoid soaps containing harsh and abrasive ingredients such as triclosan, propylene glycol, sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLS), and most added fragrances
Step 7. Do not scratch the areas affected by eczema
Although the itching can sometimes be intense, you shouldn't scratch under any circumstances. This can further irritate the skin, making the condition worse. Scratching can also cause lacerations and fluid leakage.
Try applying a moisturizer if you feel itchy
Step 8. Apply hydrocortisone cream to the area affected by eczema
If it's mild, you can usually treat it with an over-the-counter 1% hydrocortisone cream. The product can be purchased at a pharmacy or parapharmacy. Apply a small amount (a drop of about 1.5 cm) on the tip of a finger and massage it on the area affected by the dermatitis. Leave it to act until completely absorbed.
Mild eczemas do not tend to tear or secrete fluids. They also have small dimensions, less than 5 cm
Method 2 of 3: Combat Moderate to Severe Eczema with Medical Treatments
Step 1. Buy a prescription cream for persistent eczema
If you are unable to relieve dermatitis with showers and moisturizers, you will need to apply a more concentrated product. Dermatologists usually prescribe steroids, barrier creams, or various types of inhibitors to tackle the most difficult eczema. As with any prescription drug, follow the directions given to you regarding how often to apply.
Medicated creams cannot be bought without a prescription. You will need to make an appointment with a dermatologist to describe your symptoms and treatments tried. Ask him if he can prescribe a medicated cream
Step 2. Get systemic prescription corticosteroid therapy to treat more acute episodes
If the eczema worsens (i.e. it frequently secretes fluid, causes unbearable itching, or affects an extensive area of the face), ask your dermatologist if he can prescribe systemic corticosteroid therapy. In some cases, moderate to severe dermatitis can be caused by an autoimmune disease, which irritates the skin and leads to eczema.
Corticosteroids for systemic therapy are usually taken by mouth or injection and given for a relatively short period of time
Step 3. Ask your dermatologist to explain phototherapy
In some cases, acute dermatitis can be treated by applying ultraviolet type B (UVB) rays. This treatment reduces inflammation and swelling, and can also stimulate the epidermis to increase the production of vitamin B. If your doctor deems it effective in relieving dermatitis, he may prescribe a series of sessions in a center specialized in phototherapy.
Some dermatologists offer this treatment in their own office, so in this case it will not be necessary to go to a specialized center
Method 3 of 3: Relieve Eczema Symptoms with Natural Remedies
Step 1. Pour some salt into the bath water and soak your face
If bathing with regular tap water doesn't help ease the symptoms of eczema, try adding Epsom salts. You can also use Himalayan salt. Add a generous serving (about ½ cup), then take a 30-minute bath. Enter the tub and submerge your face. This will allow the salt to act on the area affected by the dermatitis.
- Alternatively, try sprinkling a generous amount of salt water on your face if you find the sensation of diving unpleasant.
- Try adding 10 drops of an essential bath oil, such as lavender or chamomile oil, if the salt doesn't work.
Step 2. Apply tea tree oil to the affected area
Tea tree oil is an excellent natural remedy to relieve symptoms caused by burning or itching. While it does not cure or permanently eliminate dermatitis, it does offer temporary relief from the discomfort it causes.
- You can buy a bottle of tea tree oil at a herbalist's shop or in the organic products department of a stocked supermarket.
- Tea tree oil is usually sold in a spray bottle, which makes it easy to apply to targeted areas.
Step 3. Apply vitamin E oil to the areas of the face affected by eczema
Vitamin E is also effective in relieving bothersome symptoms of mild dermatitis. Look for a vitamin E oil containing natural D-alpha tocopherol in herbal medicine. Tap a small amount on your finger and massage it into the affected area.
