Do's and Don'ts

Quick Reference Guide: The Do’s and Don’ts of Eczema 

Do's

  • Do always follow a dermatologist’s treatment advice
  • Do consult with a dermatologist about any questions or concerns that may arise
  • Do follow a daily skincare routine, even if there is no visible eczema
  • Do moisturize regularly, and immediately following every shower/bath
  • Do test new skincare products/make-up on a small patch of skin to determine if it will aggravate your eczema 
  • Do keep a record of eczema flares to identify triggers.  Click here for a chart to help you track them
  • Do bathe in lukewarm – never hot – water 
  • Do wear cotton fabrics, and use cotton bedding and towels
  • Do keep bedroom temperatures cooler to avoid overheating and sweating during the night
  • Do memorize key points about eczema – what it is (and what it is not), how it affects you – to help educate others who may be unfamiliar with the disease
  • Do use a humidifier around the house – particularly in the bedroom
  • Do use mild, perfume- and dye-free shampoo, soap, laundry detergent, dishwashing detergent
  • Do remove rings and other jewellery when washing hands and dishes, to avoid moisture becoming trapped
  • Do keep nails trimmed short to prevent tearing the skin
  • Do wash clothing and bedding in a mild detergent, and rinse twice to ensure all traces of detergent are removed
  • Do eliminate pests, irritants and allergens like dust mites and mildew as much as possible.  Purchase a powerful vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter, cover mattresses and pillows with allergen- and dust-proof covers, and remove carpets/area rugs
  • Do track your/your child’s treatment progress so you can report results to a dermatologist.  Click here for the Treatment Progress Chart

 

Dont's

  • Don’t scratch
  • Don’t rub skin dry after a bath or swim – pat skin dry instead
  • Don’t wear wool, nylon, rough linen or other heavy/synthetic fabrics that can irritate skin
  • Don’t put make-up onto weeping or very irritated skin
  • Don’t use petroleum jelly except following a bath or shower to seal in water – it has no moisturizing properties and should not be used in place of a regular moisturizer
  • Don’t wear clothing or pyjamas that are too warm and can cause excessive sweating
  • Don’t use bleach or fabric softeners when washing clothing and bedding, as they can remain in clothing and make eczema symptoms worse
  • Don’t try alternative treatments that have been advertised as a “cure” without first consulting a dermatologist
  • Don’t give a child bleach baths without consulting a dermatologist
  • Don’t sit next to very sunny windows, air vents or radiators if possible, to avoid overheating
  • Don’t own a pet (if possible) if you/your child has moderate to severe eczema – fur and feathers can irritate skin
  • Don’t feel alone in treating your/your child’s eczema.  It is not easy to manage this chronic condition on a daily basis – but support is available!

 

  • Eczema

    Eczema

    is referred to as “chronic” because there is no cure and symptoms can reappear or ‘flare up’ at any time

  • Dermatology

    Dermatology

    is the science that is concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting skin, hair and nails

  • A Dermatologist

    A Dermatologist

    is the medical expert you should consult if you have any significant problems with your skin 
  • Ease Program
    Ease Program
  • Ask The Doctor
    Ask The Doctor