Dry and itchy skin or eczema can be quite frustrating, especially when it keeps coming back. Managing it can be even more tiring as eczema treatment often includes a mixture of home remedies and doctor’s visits. Around 11 per cent of UAE’s adult population and 24 per cent of adolescents suffer from eczema.

What is Eczema?

Eczema is a severe medical condition that presents as patches of dry, flaky skin that is inflamed and red in appearance. Eczema patches are also itchy, so much so that they can significantly reduce the quality of life. Eczema and atopic dermatitis are used synonymously to describe the condition, however, atopic dermatitis is only a type of eczema, albeit the most common one.

Eczema manifests with different severity in all patients and has different triggers such as heat, spicy food, and stress. Avoiding the triggers is highly recommended to prevent flare-ups, which are quite painful and can stop you from continuing your daily life.

Eczema treatment or management revolves around soothing dry and flaky patches whether with home remedies for eczema or prescribed medications. Medications for eczema are prescribed by a dermatologist or a skin doctor.

Causes of Eczema

Eczema affects people of all ages, with some developing eczema from childhood and others experiencing it after adolescence. There are many triggers or causes for eczema and why it develops early in some patients and later in others. However, the exact mechanism of action behind the development of eczema is not yet fully understood.

Some of the common triggers of eczema are:

• Irritants and allergens such as detergents, soaps, dust mites, and pollen.
• Bacteria
• Extreme temperatures
• Certain foods such as dairy products and nuts
• Hormonal imbalance
• Stress

Symptoms of Eczema

Symptoms of eczema differ based on the ethnicity and age of the affected individuals. Based on the type of symptoms and age of the patient, the skin doctor will recommend the best eczema treatment.

Generally, eczema is mild in all ages and presents as:

• Dry, flaky skin patch
• Red and inflamed skin
• Itchiness
• Open or weeping sores

In children, eczema or atopic dermatitis can range from mild to severe and presents as:

• Eczema on the face: Rash on the scalp and cheeks, especially in infants
• Bubbling rash that oozes liquid
• Severe itching that can wake up the infant or child.
• Rash in the creases of the neck, arms, wrist, buttocks, and behind the knee
• Bumps and rashes
• Lighter patches of faded eczema rash
• Skin thickening, in severe cases

In people of colour, eczema doesn’t present as red inflamed skin as much as in the Caucasian population. Instead, it presents as patches of hyperpigmented or hypopigmented, darker or lighter, skin.

A diagnosis of atopic dermatitis or eczema can only be made by the skin doctor and only then, can the treatment and remedies for eczema can begin. Eczema can worsen with allergens and no topical soothing agents should be used without the recommendation of a skin doctor.

Stages of Eczema

Eczema

Eczema Flare-ups and How Long do they last?

Eczema flare-ups are often because of exposure to the triggers and causes of atopic dermatitis and can present as:

• Severe itching
• Red, inflamed skin with open sores
• Dry and flaky skin in all creases of the skin

The flare-ups can be severely uncomfortable however, with proper use of remedies for eczema flares and an appointment with the skin doctor, the flare-ups can be managed easily. Most eczema and atopic dermatitis flare-ups resolve within three weeks, with some resolving within a week.

To prevent flare-ups, avoiding the known triggers of eczema is crucial. Some of the other prevention tips are:

• Avoid dry environments and use a humidifier to prevent the worsening of skin dryness
• Avoid tight-fitting clothes
• Avoid dusty areas
• Keep your skin cool
• And lastly, moisturise regularly. Especially in summer when the heat can trigger a flare-up, appropriate moisturising habits can protect the skin.

Can Eczema be Cured?

Eczema is a life-long condition that can be managed successfully with the avoidance of triggers, proper moisturising, medications, and natural remedies for eczema. However, eczema cannot be treated completely, meaning it cannot be cured. There is no cure for eczema yet but maybe, with the development and advances made in the field of medicine, a cure may be found in the future.

How to Manage Eczema?

Eczema treatment fully is not possible. However, management of eczema can be done using homemade remedies for eczema, topical agents, and medications. Types of eczema such as atopic dermatitis can be managed by avoiding the allergens and irritants that would trigger a flare-up.

Natural remedies for eczema include:

• Aloe vera gel
• Colloidal oatmeal bath
• Apple cider vinegar
• Baths
• Coconut oil

Medications for eczema treatment and management are:

• Topical corticosteroid creams and gels
• Oral corticosteroids
• Oral immunosuppressants
• Antihistamines
• Injected biological medications

It is important to note that eczema treatment can only be prescribed by a skin doctor or dermatologist. Self-medication is not recommended, and even the use of home remedies should be consulted with the doctor to ensure the best results.

References

1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21913202/
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31563186/

It is widespread knowledge that long exposure to the sun can cause skin cancer. However, many people do not realize that certain behaviors can increase the risk of developing skin cancer. This article will discuss some of the critical behaviors that are crucial for sun protection.

Always wear sunscreen when you’re going to be outside

One essential behavior for sun protection is always wearing sunscreen when you are outside. It is because sun exposure can cause a wide range of adverse side effects, including skin cancer, premature aging, as well as discoloration and blotching of the skin. To protect yourself from the sun’s effects, it is essential you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 every day before going outside.

Additionally, it is crucial to liberally apply sunscreen to all exposed areas of your body, including your face, hands, neck, and ears. Additionally, if you’re heading out on an extended outdoor trip or plan to be in direct sunlight for extended periods, it’s a good idea to reapply your sunscreen every two hours or so. With these simple steps and practices in mind, you can enjoy trips outdoors without worrying about damaging UV rays.

Wear a wide-brimmed hat

When protecting yourself from the harmful effects of the sun, choosing suitable clothing and applying sunscreen are also essential. However, there is one particular behavior that is crucial for sun protection: wearing a wide-brimmed hat. This hat shields your head and neck, preventing the sun’s harmful UV rays from reaching these areas. At the same time, this type of hat also keeps you cool by reducing heat absorption and allowing sweat to evaporate quickly.

With so many benefits, wearing a wide-brimmed hat is essential for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors in sunny weather. Whether relaxing at the beach or engaging in outdoor activities like hiking or gardening, keep yourself safe from sun damage with a stylish wide-brimmed hat.

Seek shade whenever possible

Undoubtedly, being out in the sun can be a lot of fun. However, it helps if you protect yourself whilst staying outdoors for long periods. It means seeking shade whenever possible, wearing appropriate UV-blocking sunglasses and sunscreen, and keeping track of your exposure level. These simple steps ensure that you enjoy the sunshine safely and protect yourself from severe skin damage in the long run. So take heed, and remember to always seek shade whenever possible.

Wear sunglasses that block both UVB and UVA rays

Protecting your eyes from the sun is one of the most important things you can do to safeguard your health. Studies have shown that overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays increases the risk of numerous eye conditions, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and cancer. But how do you ensure that your eyes are fully protected? In order to block out harmful UV radiation, it is crucial to choose sunglasses that offer both UVB and UVA protection.

These lenses will help shield your delicate retinas from the damaging effects of sun exposure while allowing you to enjoy all of your favorite outdoor activities safely. Whether you’re spending a sunny day at the beach or playing a round of golf on an open course, remember to wear sunglasses that offer comprehensive protection to enjoy clear sight and good eye health well into the future.

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water

It is essential to adopt healthy behavior to stay protected from the sun. One essential sun protection component is staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. It is crucial for many reasons, including ensuring that your body has the resources to cool down and protecting your skin from damage caused by UV rays.

Additionally, proper hydration is especially important in warmer weather, when we often lose more water through sweat than usual. Keeping yourself adequately hydrated will help ensure your body can fight off any adverse effects of exposure to the sun’s harmful rays. If you’re at the beach or simply enjoying being outside in the summertime, remember to drink plenty of water and stay safe from the sun.

Avoid peak sun hours between 10 am and 4 pm

To prevent sun damage, protecting yourself from the sun’s harmful rays is crucial. It includes staying out of direct sunlight during the peak hours between 10 am and 4 pm, as well as wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and wide-brimmed hats. Additionally, it is vital to use sunscreen with a high SPF rating to shield your skin from UV radiation.