Treating Early Signs of Eczema

It's not our fault that we are all obsessed with washing our hands countless times a day and now with winter pretty much here, the extra dry air doesn't help when it comes to keeping our skin clean from germs and hydrated, all at the same time. 

Having this perfect "hand care marriage" is quite the challenge and when eczema comes into the picture, things get even more complicated. Eczema is a common skin condition that many babies and young children experience. For many, this condition lasts into the teen years and even adulthood. Unfortunately, it is a chronic condition with no cure but luckily, there are many ways to help treat this common skin problem. 

Common symptoms include dry red or brown patches, itchy skin that only gets worse as you scratch it along with dry, crusty textures. Lots of people get it in on their hands and is, of course, not a pretty sight when you want to show off your new manicure. 

There are many treatments that include various types of therapies and medications. For those who are seeing early signs and are experiencing mild conditions, save yourself from a future of worsening effects, and take the time to whip your hand care skin routine in action. 

"Use mild soaps, preferably without perfumes, when cleaning your hands," says family physician and skin specialist, Dr. Mina Tasharofi Kia, "moisturizing regularly at least twice per day, ideally every time you wash your hands, is very important. Thick creams or ointments are generally more effective. If the greasiness is undesired throughout the day, try to at least use them at night."

When asked what ingredients to look for when choosing a hand cream that can help ease those irritations, Tasharofi says "look for ceramides, glycyrrhetinic acid (a natural anti-inflammatory agent), urea, and glycerol in your products when browsing around". 

So don't ignore those itchy hands, your skin will thank you.