Learn about eczema
What is eczema?
At Bepanthen, we’re deeply committed to family health, and we understand that it can be distressing to see a family member struggling with skin diseases. That’s why we’ve put many years of research into minimizing the physical and mental discomfort of the most common dermatological condition of our time – eczema or what is locally known as skin asthma.
Eczema is characterized by inflammation, dry skin, itching or redness on the surface of the skin. The more you scratch the affected area, the more likely it is that viruses, bacteria and pollutants can get underneath the skin, and the itchier it will become. This is the itch-scratch vicious cycle which frustrates so many sufferers – despite knowing that scratching will make the eczema worse, it’s incredibly hard to resist doing it, even for adults. This inability to resist can cause feelings of guilt and embarrassment.
Eczema can affect people of all ages. It can be irritating and even painful as the skin flares and cracks, stopping people from doing the things they love. Some people also feel self-conscious about the appearance of eczema and find socializing more difficult as a result.
Most people who suffer from eczema are looking for an eczema treatment which not only provides itch relief and prevents flare-ups, but leaves them feeling happy in their own skin. Finding the right eczema treatment is often a painful journey of trial and error, as many products can actually make the eczema much worse. The aim of Bepanthen’s eczema range is to alleviate the pain and distress of this journey by offering sufferers real, lasting relief.1
What causes eczema?
The exact causes of eczema are unknown,2 but some factors include3:
- Genetics – 50%-70% of people with eczema also have a parent who suffers from the condition
- History of allergic rhinitis
- Perfumes
- Friction from synthetic fabrics and wool
- Allergens such as pollens, animal dander, dust mites, dust and mold
- Stress
- Excessive sweating4
- Harsh soaps
- Fabric softeners
- Air conditioning
- Diabetes (eczema can be a symptom)
Taking care of your skin
To minimize the risk and symptoms of eczema, and break the vicious itch-scratch cycle, there are certain simple measures you can take3:
- Avoid having dry skin. Keep the skin moisturized, especially after showering, and in dry weather.
- Avoid baths that are hotter than 36°C and don’t bathe for any longer than 10 minutes.
- Use mild soaps.
- Use cotton or linen as opposed to synthetic fabrics.
- Regularly air the rooms in your house by opening the windows.
- Use fragrance-free products on your skin whenever possible.
