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Make this my homepageManaging teenage eczema
Everyone has their own way of managing eczema and dry skin but most eczema management strategies look something like this:
- Avoid triggers when possible (click here for more information on triggers)
- Use emollients every day, even between flare-ups when skin appears to be back to normal; keep a small tube of emollient in your backpack or locker for use during the day (click here for more information on emollients).
- If itching is a problem use an itch relief cream.
- Use steroid creams as specified by your healthcare professional.
- Keep hydrated: try and drink eight glasses of water a day.
- Stick to your management strategy and stay positive.
Beating itch
It's natural to want to scratch when your skin itches, but scratching releases histamine - a chemical that makes the skin even itchier. So, the more you scratch, the more you itch!
Although trying not to scratch can seem impossible at times, it is really important because scratching can easily become a long-term habit. Ways to help your child stop scratching include:
- Cooling the itchy area with a cool damp flannel.
- Suggest they gently pinch or pat the itchy area.
- Help them distract themselves with another activity e.g. a DVD, a game or playing guitar.
If the itching is still a big problem, their doctor or nurse may recommend an itch relief cream, which both calms the itch and gently moisturises their skin.
Controlling flare-ups with steroid creams
No matter how careful you are, eczema can flare up. Steroid creams can be effective in controlling flare-ups quickly. Consult your doctor for advice on usage of steroid creams.
School, social life and stress
Stress is a part of life, but it can be another trigger for eczema. So managing the stresses in your child's studies and social life can make a big difference to their skin.
- Try to help them not to be too self-conscious - remind them that everyone has things they worry about.
- Suggest they get out and do stuff - if they are happy they will be healthier.
- Schoolwork and exam stress can be controlled by being prepared. Suggest they plan out their workload and revision - their exam results may improve too!
- Try to make sure they eat healthily and get some exercise - it's a great stress buster.
