Easing the Symptoms of Atopic Eczema: How Chippenham Pharmacy Can Help

Chippenham Pharmacy will soon be launching a dermatology service that aims to support patients with the correct use of emollients and how to manage atopic eczema and psoriasis flare-ups. Until then, have a look at this article covering the symptoms and causes of atopic eczema and psoriasis, when to seek medical advice, along with treatment options for dry skin conditions.

What Is Atopic Eczema?

Atopic eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common form of eczema that affects millions of people worldwide. This skin condition is characterised by itchy, red, and dry patches of skin that can be uncomfortable and unsightly. It is a chronic condition that affects people of all ages, but it is often more common in children.

There are a number of factors that can contribute to the development of atopic eczema, including genetics, a weakened immune system, and environmental triggers such as dry air, changes in temperature, and exposure to irritants like soaps and detergents. In some cases, food allergies can also play a role in eczema outbreaks and dry skin flare-ups.

What Is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is an uncomfortable skin condition, characterised by red and flaky patches of skin covered with a thin layer of silvery scales. This itchy and often painful rash may appear anywhere on the body but commonly occurs in areas such as elbows, knees, scalp or lower back. Additionally, psoriasis can cause cracking or bleeding if untreated. However, in many instances, it’s not as itchy as atopic eczema.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells. It is thought to be related to genetics and environmental triggers, including stress, certain medications or bacterial infections.

Also Read: How Pharmacies Can Help With Common Ailments

How Do I Treat Atopic Eczema And Psoriasis?

The primary treatment for atopic eczema and psoriasis flare-ups is to use emollients, also known as moisturisers. They create a protective barrier on the skin to prevent moisture loss and help soothe dry and irritated skin.

There are many different types of emollients, including lotions, creams, sprays, ointments, soap substitutes and leave-on products. Some emollients may also contain additional ingredients, such as ceramides and glycerin, that can help improve the skin’s barrier function and prevent future outbreaks.

Different Types Of Emollients

Lotions are an ideal choice for hairy or distressed skin, particularly in cases of weeping eczema that causes pus to seep from the affected area. Lotions are lightweight and promote easy application without sacrificing moisture levels.

Sprays, on the other hand, are good for hard-to-reach areas and sore or infected skin that should not be touched and require fast absorption. Creams make the perfect daytime moisturisers as they quickly absorb, leaving little to no greasy residue.

Ointments are an ideal solution for extremely dry or calloused skin and are perfect to use before bedtime due to their greasy and thick texture which intensely moisturises the affected area. Ointments lack any preservatives, making them suitable even for sensitive skin types; however, it is not recommended when dealing with weeping eczema.

A normal bar of soap may be detrimental to the skin, drying it out and worsening conditions like atopic eczema. As an alternative, emollient soap substitutes are far more beneficial for handwashing and bathing in order to keep your skin healthy and hydrated.

Do Leave-on Products Work For Atopic Eczema And Psoriasis?

To keep your skin hydrated and healthy, a wide selection of leave-on emollients are available to be applied directly to the epidermis. These products can help create an impenetrable shield that helps retain moisture while others contain additives which could reduce the itching or protect against infection.

To decide which type of emollient is right for you, speak with your doctor or pharmacist so they can guide you in making the most suitable choice! You may have to experiment with various emollients to find the best one for you or your child’s skin. An added benefit of leave-on products for atopic eczema and psoriasis is that some of these enriching products can also double as a cleansing agent.

When Should I Apply Emollients?

To keep your skin in optimal condition and avoid flare-ups, apply emollients at least 3 to 4 times a day as regular use will ensure sufficient moisture levels!

Frequently applying an emollient to your hands and face is essential since these areas are exposed to the environment more than any other part of your body. Furthermore, certain activities such as swimming or gardening can cause skin irritation but applying a moisturiser beforehand can help minimise flare-ups.

To avoid food and drink from irritating a baby’s delicate skin, for example, use an emollient before mealtimes. After you have done any washing or bathing activities, the emollient should be applied promptly when the skin has been dried off completely so the moisture can be locked in for extra protection.

Besides Emollients, Are There Other Treatments For Dermatitis?

In some cases, emollients alone may not be enough to effectively manage atopic eczema or dermatitis and psoriasis. In these cases, you may need topical corticosteroids or antihistamines to help reduce inflammation and itching. Topical steroids come in different strengths — with hydrocortisone being the mildest — and can be applied to the affected areas of the skin to provide relief from symptoms.

However, it is important to use topical steroids as directed by a medical professional as overuse can lead to skin thinning and other side effects. Moreover, utilising a mild and scent-free soap and moisturiser, as well as abstaining from abrasive or dehydrating products, such as alcohol-based toners, can hydrate your skin and reduce the risk of dermatitis flare-ups.

One of the best ways to manage atopic eczema is important to avoid triggers that can cause outbreaks, such as exposure to irritants, stress, and changes in temperature.

When To Seek Medical Advice

Blisters are known to form as well and in severe cases, eczema can even lead to infection which is why it’s so important to know the signs to look out for. If you experience any of the following symptoms, consult a medical professional:

• Persistent itching and redness
• Crusting or oozing of the skin
• Swelling of the skin
• Pain or discomfort
• Difficulty sleeping due to itching
• Itching that is made worse by heat or sweat
• Over-the-counter treatments are not providing any relief

Can Dietary Changes Cause Atopic Eczema And Other Skin Conditions?

Although certain foods, such as eggs and cows’ milk, may cause eczema flare-ups in some people, avoid making drastic changes to your diet without first consulting a medical professional. For young children especially, these types of food are vital for calcium intake, calorie regulation and protein consumption – omitting them could be detrimental to their health.

If your GP or pharmacist suspects you are dealing with an adverse reaction to food, they may refer you to a dietitian—an expert in nutrition and dieting. They are best suited and qualified to help you find the best solution to avoid the allergen while still getting ample vitamins and minerals.

Alternatively, they could send you to another specialist such as an immunologist, dermatologist or paediatrician who can provide further assistance. If you have a baby who suffers from atopic eczema and is breastfeeding, it’s important to seek medical advice before altering your regular diet.

Related: Living With Psoriasis

We hope this article was helpful in providing you with an overview of how to manage atopic eczema and psoriasis flare-ups. Remember, seek medical advice if your symptoms persist or worsen. With the right treatment and care, you can keep your skin healthy and feel more comfortable in your own skin.

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