What makes eczema worse?

Eczema is a skin condition in which the skin barrier is weak, and it is itchy and dry. It is not contagious.

What sets eczema off varies from person to person. Common triggers are:

• Dry air, and hot or long showers.
• Scented soaps, detergents and fabric softeners.
• Wool and synthetic fabrics, and sweating.
• Stress and lack of sleep.
• Certain foods in some children. Cutting out a food is done only after testing and on a doctor’s advice.

Does eczema come from stress? Stress alone is not considered the cause of eczema. It can, however, make existing eczema flare up.

Yoghurt or herbal mixtures do not clear eczema. On cracked or open skin they can increase the risk of infection.

The basics for eczema are regular moisturising and staying away from triggers. The treatment needed during a flare-up is decided at the consultation. A dermatologist also looks after eczema in babies and children.