<Things you should know> Correct knowledge about "eczema (dermatitis)" (3) How to prevent and alleviate eczema (dermatitis) Methods to prevent eczema (dermatitis) How to deal with eczema (dermatitis) How to deal with eczema (dermatitis) that is common during pregnancy When eczema occurs, inflammation results in itchy, red, and peeling skin. To prevent it, it's important to take preventative measures regularly. It's also crucial to take appropriate action immediately if eczema does occur. Here, we introduce methods for preventing and alleviating eczema, supervised by a dermatologist. Methods to prevent eczema (dermatitis) Generally, the following preventative measures are available. Avoid the causative substance. Eczema is a skin condition that often causes itchy redness, bumps, and small blisters on the skin. If the cause can be identified, the first step is to avoid that substance. For example, the following substances can cause eczema: In the case of atopic dermatitis (dust mites, house dust) To avoid dust mites, it's important to vacuum your room frequently, air out your bedding in the sun occasionally, and change to fresh bedding. Additionally, keeping your room and bedding dry and humid is a good way to prevent dust mite infestations. In cases of allergic contact dermatitis (metals) If you experience skin irritation from metal, avoid metal accessories and watches. Sometimes, eyelash curlers can be the cause. sweat Sweat contains various components, and if left untreated, it can irritate the skin and cause conditions like heat rash. When you sweat, wipe it off frequently, change your clothes, or take a shower to prevent sweat from remaining on your skin for too long. Keep your skin clean at all times. Bacteria and other microorganisms can multiply on the skin, causing rashes and inflammation. Keeping your skin clean is very important. Moisturizing Dryness is a major enemy of the skin. The skin naturally has a barrier function that retains moisture within and protects it from external irritants. If the skin's barrier function weakens for any reason, it not only becomes dry but also more susceptible to irritation. Therefore, proper moisturizing is essential to maintain this barrier function.After washing your face or taking a bath, be sure to moisturize your skin as soon as possible with lotion or moisturizer. Moisturizing tips It has become a concern that some people are visiting dermatologists for cosmetic purposes to obtain prescription medications containing "heparinoid," which are used to treat dry skin caused by atopic dermatitis and keloids after injuries. In rare cases, it can cause facial itching, so it is not recommended to use prescription medications on your own. If you want to use heparinoid for self-care, you can look for over-the-counter medications that are sold at pharmacies and drugstores. Types of topical preparation bases you should know Topical medications applied to the body come in various types, such as ointments, lotions, and creams. These types are called "bases," and each base has characteristics beyond just feel and ease of application. This article will introduce the general characteristics of each type and tips for using them effectively. Vaseline/Ointment base It also has a skin-protecting effect and can be used for any type of skin condition. Because it has an oily base, it can be used even in severe dryness, blisters, cracks, and erosions (a condition where the epidermis of the skin or mucous membrane is lost, exposing the underlying tissue). It has a sticky feel and is difficult to wash off. cream base You can apply the appropriate amount thoroughly to the affected area and the surrounding skin.This product is suitable for dry, flaky areas, but is not recommended for oozing eczema or cracked skin. Lotion base It spreads easily and can be applied to large areas. Because it has a water-based formula, it's not sticky, making it easy to use on the scalp and recommended for those who are concerned about oily skin. However, it is not recommended for oozing eczema or cracked skin. Understand your allergies Since allergies can cause eczema, it's a good idea to get tested at a hospital or clinic to see if you have allergies to foods, metals, medications, house dust, etc. Avoiding the triggers can help prevent eczema. Also, if eczema does occur, it will be easier to identify the cause and treat it quickly. Can allergies manifest in reactions to other substances as well? People with latex allergies may experience skin symptoms such as redness and itching when using natural rubber products. In severe cases, anaphylactic shock (including a drop in blood pressure and loss of consciousness) may occur, so caution is necessary. People with latex allergies may also experience allergic reactions after eating fruits such as kiwi, grapefruit, chestnuts, avocado, and banana, so caution is needed when consuming fruits.Furthermore, people who have experienced skin irritation from hair dye may also experience irritation from hydroquinone, which is well-known for its skin-whitening effects. Similarly, divers and surfers who have been stung by jellyfish in the ocean may experience allergic reactions to natto (fermented soybeans). In other cases, caution is needed regarding other substances as well. How to deal with eczema (dermatitis) When you experience eczema symptoms such as itching and redness on your skin, there are generally several ways to deal with them. Of course, if you can identify the cause, the first step is to avoid that cause or take appropriate measures. The methods described here are merely general approaches. Cool it down without scratching. Eczema is itchy. Therefore, you may want to scratch it, but scratching can weaken the skin's barrier function and damage the skin, potentially leaving scratches. So, you should refrain from scratching.If the itching is unbearable, applying a damp towel wrung out with water to cool the area can help alleviate the itching. Blood is concentrated in the inflamed area, and so are the neurotransmitters that cause itching. Cooling the area will slightly reduce blood flow, which can help relieve the itching. Wear gloves while working In cases of hand eczema, covering the hands with gloves can protect them from external irritants. Apply medication to relieve itching. If the itching is so severe that you can't sleep at night or concentrate on work, you can try applying over-the-counter ointments or creams to relieve itching. However, if the symptoms are worsening or if the over-the-counter medication doesn't help, you should go to the hospital. Consult a dermatologist. If your eczema worsens or you notice any unusual symptoms, see a dermatologist as soon as possible. This is because other illnesses may be the cause. Also, even mild eczema should be taken seriously if it persists for more than a week.At the hospital, a medical interview will be conducted to inquire about the onset of symptoms, diet, behavior, and allergies, and the condition of the skin will be examined directly. If necessary, blood tests or patch tests will be performed to investigate the cause of the rash. Once the cause is identified, treatment and management will be provided accordingly. Dermatologists will use various methods depending on the severity of the eczema symptoms, and steroids may be prescribed. About blood tests One way to identify the cause of eczema is through a blood test. Blood tests examine the number of eosinophils, which are white blood cells involved in allergies, and the amount of a protein called IgE, and look for trends based on the number and amount of these factors. About patch testing This test involves applying a patch soaked in an ingredient suspected to cause the rash to the skin for two days and checking for any reaction. It can help determine the cause of the rash. About steroids If your eczema symptoms are severe, a dermatologist may prescribe a topical medication called "steroids." Steroids are medications that suppress allergic reactions and inflammation, and are considered effective in treating eczema. They work by reducing inflammation in the skin affected by eczema. Their strength is divided into five levels: strongest, very strong, strong, mild, and weak, and they are used differently depending on the symptoms and affected area.While topical steroid creams generally pose less of a risk of side effects than oral steroids, they can still thin the skin and potentially trigger infections such as acne and impetigo. Dermatologists will select from five different strengths of steroid creams based on the skin area (skin thickness) and symptoms, and will adjust the amount and frequency of application accordingly.Over-the-counter (OTC) medications are available in three strengths: strong, mild, and mild. Some are antidrug steroids, which weaken in effect once absorbed into the body. How to deal with eczema (dermatitis) that is common during pregnancy During pregnancy, hormonal changes in the body can make skin problems more likely.For example, during pregnancy, the skin tends to become drier, and itching can occur all over the body. Because the skin becomes more sensitive, even slight irritation from cosmetics can cause skin problems. The itching may worsen and even develop into eczema.During pregnancy, there are times when you need to be careful about using medication, so please consult your doctor. Supervised by: Professor Tokuya OmiGraduated from Nippon Medical School Graduate School. Visiting Research Professor at Aarhus University and Visiting Professor at Nippon Medical School. Certified Specialist in Cosmetic Dermatology and Laser Treatment by the Japanese Dermatological Association. Certified Specialist in Dermatology by the Japanese Dermatological Association. Certified Specialist in Allergology by the Japanese Society of Allergology. We take care to post accurate information,Please point out any incorrect information. Please submit any comments regarding medical information here. Return to the list of guides categorized by health symptoms.