When skin overreacts, is itchy, uncomfortable or hurts, how can it be soothed? How do you find relief? 10 Questions for Dr Ariadna Ortiz-Brugués, Dermatologist and Medical Director of the Eau Thermale Avène brand and Joëlle Nonni, Head of the Skin Health Education Workshops at the Avène Hydrotherapy Centre.
The management of very dry, eczema-prone skin is highly codified and the therapeutic solutions vary according to the severity of the symptoms: dryness, redness, itching, scaling, etc. In all cases, applying an emollient daily is the first step in soothing eczema-prone skin. It reduces intense skin dryness and calms itching sensations. In the event of an attack, a prescription of topical corticosteroids remains the standard treatment for treating the inflammation.
Eczema-prone skin is often caused by several factors but anxiety and stress can be triggers for flare-ups and itching. Prioritise physical activity if you can, reading, music, abdominal breathing, etc. Practice relaxation and activities that you enjoy.
Daily care can become tedious over time, especially as the skin condition improves. However, it is important to persevere. Keeping the skin hydrated is one of the simplest and most effective methods of strengthening the barrier function and thus reducing dryness and spacing out outbreaks.
We often don’t realise we are scratching and it's hard to resist. It is therefore important to identify these moments and find suitable alternatives. There are a few tricks to divert your attention: keep your hands busy, scratch an object such as small textured balls, play with your fingers, scratch the velcro side sewn on a stuffed animal or the scratch area of pyjamas. And to avoid scratches, cutting fingernails short and wearing cotton or silk gloves (if tolerated) for the night can also be a solution, and they can be transformed into puppets for children.
Bathing has several benefits: it cleanses, relaxes, and prepares the skin for the application of emollients. However, you should reduce how often you bathe and limit its duration to a maximum of 10 minutes because hard water dries out the skin and therefore encourages irritation and itching. Opt for quick 5-minute showers each day. The water temperature should not exceed 34°C to avoid reactivating inflammation. Dry yourself by gently dabbing with a towel so as not to rekindle the itching sensation.
The cold can effectively soothe itching. You can use frozen peas stored in a personalised bag, a cooling bag or stones stored in the refrigerator, as long as you do not put them directly on the skin, especially if it is already damaged. Daily applications of Thermal Spring Water soaked compresses on the areas that need soothing are also very effective, and an opportunity for you to take a moment to relax.
Apply a balm moisturiser before bed – and keep an emollient and Thermal Spring Water Spray handy. Make sure you create a relaxing atmosphere, e.g. with dimmed lighting and soft music. Do not cover up too much and keep the room at a temperature of 18°C.
