She Strengthens

Soothing Eczema: A Gentle Approach to Exfoliation

If you’re struggling with dry, itchy patches of eczema, exfoliating might seem like a welcome relief. However, it’s essential to approach exfoliation with caution, especially when dealing with sensitive skin.

Understanding Eczema and Exfoliation

For those with eczema, gentle exfoliation can be a game-changer. You can exfoliate mechanically using a soft tool or washcloth, or chemically with products containing alpha hydroxy acids or beta hydroxy acids. These gentle approaches can help remove dead skin cells, improve skin appearance, and enhance moisturizer absorption.

Safe Exfoliation Tips for Eczema

To exfoliate safely with eczema:

• Limit exfoliation to once a week
• Moisturize after bathing or showering, and at least once more daily
• Use the lightest touch and gentlest products
• Avoid exfoliating broken or irritated skin

The Benefits of Gentle Exfoliation

Exfoliating can help remove dead skin cells, allowing your skin to breathe and absorb moisturizers more effectively. This can lead to smoother, healthier-looking skin. Additionally, gentle exfoliation can help reduce the appearance of dry eczema patches.

What to Avoid When Exfoliating with Eczema

Steer clear of strong chemical and physical exfoliants, especially if you have dark skin, as they can cause dark spots. Never exfoliate broken skin, and avoid exfoliating if you use topical corticosteroids regularly. Also, be cautious not to turn your scrub into an intense scratching session – your touch should be much lighter!

Spotting Skin Infections

If you suspect a skin infection, don’t exfoliate! Look out for signs such as:

• Worsening rash
• Weeping or oozing skin
• Yellow crust on the rash
• Swollen, painful skin
• Fever

A Step-by-Step Guide to Exfoliating with Eczema

To exfoliate safely with eczema:

1. Start with lukewarm water in the bath or shower
2. Use a gentle body wash, soft washcloth, or mild chemical exfoliant
3. Wet skin and apply cleanser
4. Rub gently in short circular motions for 30 seconds
5. Rinse with warm water
6. Pat dry with a soft towel
7. Apply ointment or thick moisturizer while skin is still damp

Managing Eczema Scars

While eczema doesn’t usually leave scars, scratched skin can lead to scarring and discoloration. Exfoliating healed scars may help improve skin texture and appearance, but it may also irritate your skin. To prevent scars, resist the urge to scratch your skin. Scars, hypopigmentation, and hyperpigmentation caused by eczema will fade over time.

The Best Gloves for Eczema

Exfoliating gloves can be a valuable addition to your skin care routine. Look for gentle, moisturizing gloves like:

• Songwol Exfoliating Bath Mitt
• EvridWear Cotton Moisturizing Gloves
• Gaxcoo White Cotton Gloves
• Leafy Boo Bamboo Gloves

Treating Eczema Flare-Ups

If you’re experiencing a flare-up, hold off on exfoliation. Instead, try:

• Avoiding scratching (use gloves to help)
• Using topical steroids as recommended
• Taking antihistamine pills if suggested
• Moisturizing two to three times a day
• Avoiding products with alcohol, scents, and dyes
• Trying wet wrap therapy

The Bottom Line

Eczema management is all about avoiding the itch and keeping your skin moisturized. Gentle exfoliation can be a helpful addition to your routine, but it’s essential to approach it with caution and prioritize your skin’s safety.