ATOPIC DERMATITIS (ECZEMA)



Serving Hamilton, Stoney Creek, Grimsby and surrounding areas.


General Measures:

  • Place a humidifier in the bedroom, especially in the winter.
  • Wear soft cotton clothes only. (Wool and other fabrics tend to irritate sensitive skin).
  • Avoid playing on the grass in the summer.
  • Use an air conditioner to cool the bedroom in the summer.
  • Elimination of certain foods from the diet will generally not help atopic dermatitis.
  • Do not use 'bubble bath' in the bath water because it causes the skin to become drier.
  • Use soap only under the arms and in the groin when bathing.
  • Wash clothes with gentle laundry detergent and do not use 'Anti-static sheets', bleach or fabric softener in the laundry.
  • Rinse the laundry twice to avoid detergent residue in the clothing.
  • If toddlers have severe dermatitis around the mouth, cover this area with vaseline petroleum jelly prior to meals.  The will protect the skin from contact with irritating foods.

Specific Treatments:

  • Bathe once or twice daily in lukewarm water for 10 minutes or less.
  • After bathing, while you are still wet, apply the medicated ointments prescribed to the areas of red, inflamed skin.
  • Apply the medicated ointments and moisturize the skin three to four times daily.
  • Regular use of antihistamines is more effective at controlling itching than taking it infrequently.