Eczema has increased over the last several decades, currently affecting up to 25% of children and 2% to 3% of adults. Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema.

What is eczema?

Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition, characterized by intensely itchy patches of dry skin.

What are the common triggers of eczema?

Some eczema triggers are cold, dry air, dyes and fragrances ( in soaps detergents and lotions), stress or chemicals sometimes found in clothing (formaldehyde).

What non-drug therapies can help eczema?

All sufferers can benefit from gentle skin care, skin hydration and avoiding triggers.

Do not take long, hot steamy showers. They feel good but they dry out skin. Shower for 5 to10 minutes with lukewarm water.

Lotion like, Gramp Lyford’s Body Lotion, should be applied after bathing or showering, but not while dripping wet. Pat yourself down with a towel but leave a little moisture.

Select a moisturizer based on preference and ingredients (lack of fragrance or irritants like imidazolidinyl or diazolidinyl based preservatives and parabens).

Use a concentrated moisturizer like Gramp Lyford’s Country Salve on the patches of dry skin two to three times a day.