1. health and fitness
2. disease

Astellas Phama Canada Inc.
www.eczemacanada.ca
1 866 432-0362
PRT1011100EN
Understanding eczema and what you can do about it
Eczema can be very different for everyone who has it. Yet, no matter how
severe your eczema, everyone deals with the same basic symptoms: dry
skin, sore rashes, and intense itch. It can be frustrating and uncomfortable
trying to manage eczema and keep eczema ‘flare-ups’ under control. At its
most severe, eczema can cause serious health problems, profoundly affect
quality of life, and interfere with normal, everyday activities.
Eczema is a recurring, long-term inflammation of the skin, and there is no
cure. It usually begins in childhood, appearing within the first six months,
and can continue through adolescence into adulthood. Although some
children may eventually outgrow eczema, about 80 per cent will have dry,
irritable skin their whole lives.
INTRODUCTION
Introduction
Often, people suffering from eczema or parents of children with eczema
don’t understand the disease or how to manage the condition. Some
people have even stopped seeing their doctor because they are frustrated
with their current treatment. This is not the answer. There is hope.
This book, along with the website www.eczemacanada.ca, is a part of
the Eczema Awareness, Support and Education (EASE) program, which
provides free educational resources to help patients better understand
eczema. Developed in collaboration with leading Canadian dermatologists,
these resources will help teach you about current therapies as well as new
treatments that could make a difference to your skin. You will gain a better
understanding of the chronic nature of eczema, as well as tips to help you
manage your skin on a daily basis, so you can take control of your eczema
– right now!
The first step, if you think you have eczema or if your current treatment does
not seem to be helping, is to see your family doctor. A correct diagnosis and
the proper treatment are very important. If a referral to a dermatologist is
necessary, your family physician will help you get one.
1
CONTENTS
Contents
What is eczema?......................................................... 4
The itch-scratch-rash cycle........................................... 4
Eczema and your skin................................................... 5
Eczema and the immune system.................................. 5
How is eczema diagnosed?.......................................... 6
Eczema ‘flare-ups’......................................................... 7
Myths and facts about eczema..................................... 8
What triggers your eczema?......................................... 10
Managing childhood eczema..................................... 12
Learn your child’s eczema triggers............................... 12
How can I stop my child from scratching?.................... 12
Tips to help manage your child’s eczema..................... 13
Managing your child’s eczema at school...................... 14
Answers to common questions . .................................. 16
Managing adult eczema.............................................. 19
Moisturizers................................................................... 19
Bathing and showering................................................. 19
The itch.......................................................................... 20
Know your triggers........................................................ 20
Clothes, towels, and bedding....................................... 20
Makeup and cleansers.................................................. 21
Soap and hair products................................................. 21
Stress............................................................................ 21
Medication..................................................................... 22
Ways to manage your eczema...................................... 22
Talking about eczema.................................................... 22
2
CONTENTS
How is eczema treated?............................................. 23
Antibiotics...................................................................... 24
Antihistamines............................................................... 24
Coal tar preparations..................................................... 25
Phototherapy................................................................. 25
Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors........................................ 26
Topical Steroids............................................................. 26
Treatment progress chart.............................................. 28
Resources and support.............................................. 30
Books............................................................................ 30
Web resources............................................................... 30
Notes............................................................................. 31
33
W H AT I S E C Z E M A ?
What is eczema?
Although we often associate eczema with only one type of skin condition,
it really describes a whole group that can affect anyone, at any age.
Atopic dermatitis is only one of this
group and doctors usually refer to it
as simply ‘eczema’ because it is the
most common within this group.
Eczema = Atopic
Dermatitis
The itch-scratch-rash cycle
The constant itch that goes along with eczema makes it very different
from any other skin condition. Eczema is often called
the ‘itch that rashes’ rather than the ‘rash that
itches’ because the itch starts before the rash
ITCH
appears. The itch leads to scratching and
that’s when the red, raw rash appears.
The signs and symptoms of eczema vary
from person to person. It can range from
mild — where skin is dry, hot and itchy
— to its most severe — when the skin
becomes broken, raw, and bleeding.1
RASH
SCRATCH
The skin barrier appears to play a significant
role in how effectively the skin functions, and
why certain people get eczema while others do not. In healthy skin with
a resilient skin barrier, allergens cannot penetrate deeper into the skin.
Instead, bacteria and irritants are prevented from entering; the barrier also
helps to protect proper levels of hydration in the skin. Research into the
skin barrier has shown that there is a genetic predisposition to a weakened,
defective skin barrier. This allows allergens to penetrate the deeper layers of
the skin.2
In addition, the defective skin barrier allows for increased interaction with
environmental factors such as soap and detergent, house dust mites, hard
water, infection and some topical medications and cosmetic products. This
can result in a worsening of eczema symptoms, and a further breakdown of
the skin barrier.
4
1. T
he Chronicle of Skin & Allergy, February 2010
2. Cork MJ, The importance of the skin barrier function. Journal of Dermatological Treatment 1997; Vol. 8, S7-S13
Your skin is quite amazing. It’s the largest organ of
your body; flexible, relatively waterproof, keeps you
warm or cool by regulating body temperature, and
protects you from tiny organisms and infections.
Normal skin tends to take care of itself, rarely
causing too much trouble. Skin affected by eczema
is often dry and cracked with the protective outer
layer of skin damaged. As a result, skin affected by
eczema loses a lot of water, which interferes with
the natural healing process.
Eczema and the immune system
W H AT I S E C Z E M A ?
Eczema and your skin
Our immune system is very complex and it works very hard to protect us.
Once the white blood cells of our immune system are set into action, they
release substances that cause inflammation. This inflammation causes
redness to appear, as well as releasing other substances that can cause
itching.
Some researchers believe that people who have eczema also have a
reduced threshold for the itch sensation. So once your skin gets itchy, it’s
very hard to resist the urge to scratch.
Scratching can damage your skin, causing more inflammatory substances
to be produced that, in turn, cause more white blood cells to respond to
this reaction. This increases the redness and itching, which makes it even
harder to resist scratching.
This process is known as the itch-scratch-rash cycle and it can become so
severe that it can lead to sleeplessness, irritability, stress, thickening skin,
and intense pain. Scratching can tear or break the skin, causing it to bleed
and ooze, allowing bacteria to enter which can cause secondary infections
to develop.
Generally, treatments like topical steroids and antihistamines work to relieve
the symptoms of eczema once they have already appeared. Relatively
newer treatments called Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors (TCIs) are available
in Canada that some dermatologists consider to be a promising option in
5
W H AT I S E C Z E M A ?
eczema therapy. TCIs appear to prevent the release of the inflammatory
substances that cause the red, itchy skin associated with eczema. This
treatment works to calm and control the skin’s reaction. In 2010 Health
Canada approved one of the available TCIs for maintenance therapy. Talk
with your doctor; he or she has the most up-to-date information about
eczema treatments.
How is eczema diagnosed?
Your doctor cannot diagnose eczema by a blood test, urine sample, or by
any other laboratory tests. The only way to tell if you have eczema is by
having a physical examination.
Your doctor may ask if:
• You have a family history of allergic diseases, like hay fever or asthma.
It is not unusual for people suffering from eczema to have asthma or
hay fever, or have a close relative with eczema, asthma, or hay fever.
• You have trouble sleeping or concentrating because of pain or
itchiness.
• Your skin condition comes and goes or is always present somewhere
on your body.
• You have a rash in the folds of your elbows, behind your knees, on
the front of your ankles, on your hands, wrists, or neck.
• You have frequent skin infections.
Mild Eczema
Moderate Eczema
Severe Eczema
The signs and symptoms of eczema vary from person to person and can
range from mild — where skin is dry, hot and itchy — to its most severe,
when the skin becomes broken, raw and bleeding.
6
By nature, eczema symptoms can come
and go. At times, symptoms can be
more severe or the rash and itching can
completely disappear for long periods at a
time. However, when symptoms suddenly
reappear or become worse, it’s called a
‘flare-up’.
A number of different factors appear to
trigger ‘flare-ups’ of eczema. ‘Flare—ups’
can happen when your skin comes in
contact with irritants like soap, detergents, abrasive clothing (e.g., wool and
synthetic fibres), perfume, carpet fibres, or dust. Overheating, excessive
sweating or low humidity can also trigger a ‘flare-up’.
W H AT I S E C Z E M A ?
Eczema ‘flare-ups’
The chart found on pages 10 and 11 can help you identify irritants that may
trigger your eczema and cause ‘flare-ups’.
7
W H AT I S E C Z E M A ?
Myths and facts about eczema
Unfortunately, there are a lot of misconceptions about eczema. It’s
important that you understand your condition so that you can help
others understand it as well.
Here are a few common myths about eczema and the truth about
each one.
Myth: Eczema is just like acne.
Fact: No.
Eczema is not like acne – they are
completely different conditions. However,
it is true that some medications may cause
acne and complicate eczema. Talk to your
doctor, there are different medications that
may help.
Myth: Eczema is caused by an emotional disorder.
Fact: No.
Although at one time doctors did believe that eczema was caused by an
emotional disorder, we now know that emotional factors, like stress, can
make eczema worse. There are techniques that can help you manage
the stress, anxiety, anger, or frustration that can lead to increased
instances of eczema ‘flare-ups’.
Myth: You can ‘catch’ eczema from someone who has the disease.
Fact: No.
Eczema is absolutely not contagious. This means that you can’t ‘catch’
the disease from another person and you can’t give it to someone by
touching him or her.
8
Myth: People who have eczema do not wash properly.
Fact: Of course this isn’t true.
Having eczema has nothing to do with personal hygiene; the disease is
believed to be caused by a combination of environmental, genetic and
immune system factors. In reality, many eczema sufferers bathe much
more frequently than non-eczema sufferers to help hydrate the skin!
W H AT I S E C Z E M A ?
Myth: You can’t go swimming if you have
eczema.
Fact: Most people with eczema can go
swimming.
However, some people who have severe
eczema find that the chemicals used in
swimming pools or the salt in sea water
makes their eczema worse, so they choose
not to go in. Make sure that before and after
you go swimming, you rinse your skin and put
on a moisturizer.
Myth: Eczema will leave permanent scars.
Fact: Generally, no.
Although your eczema can be very uncomfortable and unpleasant, it is
very unusual for it to leave any permanent marks on your skin.
Myth: Eczema can be cured with steroids.
Fact: Unfortunately, there is no cure for eczema.
Although steroids have been used for a long time to treat eczema, they
are not a cure and they do have limitations when used as treatment.
9
W H AT I S E C Z E M A ?
What triggers your eczema?
Triggering factor
Stress
Anger
Frustration
Anxiety
Hot weather
Cold weather
Humidity
Dry weather
Sun
Sweat
Wool
Synthetic fibers
Latex
Rubber
Plastic
10
Hot baths
Hard water
Chlorinated water
Salt water (oceans,
mineral spas)
Yes/No
Eczema symptoms
Air borne pollutants:
Dust mites
Mould
Animal dander
Pollen
Smog/air pollution
Yes/No
Eczema symptoms
W H AT I S E C Z E M A ?
Triggering factor
Eggs
Milk
Wheat
Soy
Seafood
Nuts
Food additives
Citrus fruits
Strawberries
Soaps
Detergents
Lotions, creams
Perfumes
Makeup
Hair shampoos
Styling aids
Conditioners
Other:
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M ana g in g C hi l dhood E czema
Managing Childhood Eczema
The pain and constant itch of eczema can distress children and disturb their
sleep. It can interfere with school, cause low self-esteem, and make them
feel self-conscious about their appearance. Some children even avoid social
situations because of it.
You can help your child cope with their condition by helping them
understand the importance of a daily routine to keep their eczema under
control. Smaller children and toddlers will also benefit from good skin care
practices and the right treatment.
Learn your child’s eczema triggers
A number of different factors appear to trigger ‘flare-ups’ of eczema.
Contact with irritants such as soap, detergents, abrasive clothing (e.g., wool
and synthetic fibres), carpet, certain foods, heat, sweat, and low humidity
can trigger itching that leads to ‘flare-ups’. The chart found on pages
10 and 11 will help you keep track of what affects your child so you can
eliminate or manage their effects.
How can I stop my child from scratching?
Scratching is an instinctive reaction to itching and it is particularly hard for
babies and children to resist the urge to scratch. Unfortunately, scratching
does not stop the itch. In fact, it breaks the natural barrier of the skin’s
surface, aggravating the skin and making the condition worse. The skin then
becomes sore and inflamed, eventually cracks and bleeds and may even
become infected.
The only effective way to stop a child’s scratching is to stop the itch. You
can help by applying a moisturizer or by covering the affected area with a
cool, damp towel. Medications applied to the skin, such as topical steroids,
can also help to control inflammation, while newer therapies such as Topical
Calcineurin Inhibitors (TCIs) are effective in relieving the itch. Ask your
doctor about the most appropriate treatment option for your child.
If you notice your child develops a habit of scratching at a certain time of
day or during a particular activity (such as watching television), try to break
this habit by applying the moisturizer or a cool, damp towel to the skin at
that time. It may also help to distract them by playing a game or starting a
new activity.
12
Moisturizers, sometimes called emollients, are mixtures of oils, fats and
water, which help to restore the oil and moisture content of the skin. Using
moisturizers regularly on your child’s skin is the most important thing you
can do to manage eczema. Moisturizers are available over-the-counter
or by prescription in the form of creams, ointments, soap substitutes, and
lotions. Use moisturizers as often as you can, especially after bathing or
showering.
Bathing
Frequent bathing is essential. Make sure the water is warm, not hot. After
the bath, pat your child’s skin dry, then immediately apply a moisturizer to
seal in water.
Although there are conflicting opinions regarding the amount of time a child
should remain in the bath, a good rule of thumb seems to be about 5 to 10
minutes daily, before bed time. Always moisturize immediately after bathing.
Tips to help manage your child’s eczema
• Keep them cool. Use cool, light bedding, loose clothing and always keep
the bedroom somewhat cool at night.
• Keep the skin moist. Keep skin well-moisturized, even when a rash is
M ana g in g C hi l dhood E czema
Moisturizers
not present. This will help prevent the skin from flaring.
• Use 100% cotton clothes and bedding. Avoid nylon and wool. Wash
clothes and bedding in a mild detergent, avoid bleach and fabric
softeners, and rinse clothes twice.
• Pets. Avoid pets – contact with fur and feathers can irritate the skin.
Animal dander can also produce an allergic reaction in some sufferers.
Dander, or the proteins in skin flakes, hair and saliva, are very small
particles that can be carried through the air. All pets shed some amount of
dander, even pets that are considered to be “hypoallergenic”. However, a
hypoallergenic pet (for example, dog breeds such as Poodles or Yorkshire
Terriers) may cause less of an allergic reaction in sufferers. If your child
has their heart set on a pet, consider animals that do not normally
produce an allergic reaction, such as turtles, lizards or aquarium fish.
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M ana g in g C hi l dhood E czema
• Keep fingernails short and clean. If necessary, use cotton gloves or
mittens at night to prevent scratching during sleep.
• Diet. Changes to diet may be effective for some children if food has been
identified as a trigger factor. Only do this with advice from your doctor or
a dietitian.
• Emollients/moisturizers. Make sure the moisturizer/emollient you
choose does not contain alcohol, which will dry your child’s skin. While
the skin is still damp, apply moisturizers to create a barrier against
water loss. Make sure any moisturizers or emollients you use are rich
enough (have a high oil-to-water ratio) to help keep moisture in the skin.
Lotions generally have the lowest oil-to-water ratio, followed by creams.
Ointments have the highest oil-to-water ratio. Because of this, ointments
generally provide the best hydration.
• Be patient. Eczema is a chronic disease and must be managed daily.
Find a routine both you and your child can live with and stick to it.
Remember, you are not alone, and there is support.
• Involve your child. It’s important for your child to feel involved in their
own skincare. It helps them achieve a sense of control over their disease
and helps them feel good that they can do something about the awful
itch.
Managing your child’s eczema at school
It is important to remember that eczema can
change quite dramatically in a short period
of time and may require immediate treatment
or care. Parents may find it helpful to alert
teachers, school nurses, or administrators
to their child’s eczema. Discuss your child’s
condition with their teachers at the beginning
of the school year, and check in with updates
when necessary.
14
• Ask that your child be seated away from heat sources, like sunny
windows, air vents, or radiators.
• If school uniforms are required, ensure that a cotton alternative is
acceptable.
• Over-heating from school activities and sports may aggravate eczema.
Sore or cracked skin may also prevent your child from taking part in some
sports. Work with the school’s gym teacher to develop a fitness program
that meets your child’s needs.
• Children may feel embarrassed at exposing their skin. Help your child
deal with the possibility of hurtful comments and if possible, help educate
other classmates about eczema. Be sure to stress that eczema is not
contagious.
• Swimming. Saltwater or chlorine may irritate skin. Applying an emollient
before swimming and after showering can help.
• Over-tired. The discomfort and itch of eczema can mean that your child
is restless and unable to sleep at night. Your child may be irritable or tired
at school. Work with teachers and administrators to find a solution that
everyone can live with.
M ana g in g C hi l dhood E czema
Tips for managing eczema at school
• School activities. Some school activities that involve paste, paint, clay,
food preparation, wood or metal shop may cause an eczema ‘flare-up’. It
is best to talk to your child about what things they can do and what things
they cannot do. Offer alternatives so that they won’t feel left out.
• Food. Some foods may make your child’s eczema worse. Inform the
school of any food triggers and make sure your child understands which
foods they should stay away from.
• It’s hard for children not to scratch, but it is equally important that you
inform your child’s teachers of this, and ask that they quietly remind the
child not to scratch if they notice it during class. Let the teachers know
that it may be an unconscious reaction and that often the child just needs
to be made aware that they are scratching.
15
M ana g in g C hi l dhood E czema
•W
hile certain activities such as sports or arts and crafts may not be
possible in severe cases, it’s important to encourage your child to pursue
as normal a life as their condition permits. Encourage your child to talk to
other children about their condition, and speak openly about eczema with
other parents and teachers who have contact with your child.
You can help your child cope with their condition by helping them
understand the importance of a daily routine to keep their eczema under
control. Smaller children and toddlers also benefit from a good skin care
routine and proper treatment.
Answers to common questions about
childhood eczema
Where does eczema usually appear?
Babies and toddlers:
• Scalp,
face, and neck.
• Back
of the arms.
• Front
of the legs.
• Torso.
Children and teenagers:
• Inner
creases of the elbows.
• Back
of the knees.
• May
also affect the hands, face and eyelids.
At what age does childhood eczema occur?
Most (up to 75 per cent) cases of childhood eczema appear before six
months of age. Almost all cases (up to 90 per cent) occur by the age of five.
What is the incidence of childhood eczema in Canada?
12 to 25 per cent of Canadian children suffer from eczema.
16
Although some children may eventually outgrow their eczema, about 80
per cent will have dry, irritable skin throughout their lives. About 10 to 15
per cent of children will continue to have eczema as adults. Eczema may
reappear at any time, especially during times of stress.
Why do some children suffer from eczema?
This difficult condition tends to run in families where there is a history
of eczema, asthma or hay fever. Not every child in a family will develop
eczema, but if you have one child with eczema, there is a one in four
chance your next child will have it. If both parents are affected, the risk is
even greater. However, eczema can also affect children in families with no
known history of eczema or other allergic conditions.
Is a child with eczema likely to suffer from other conditions?
Because eczema is closely related to asthma and hay fever, it is quite
common for children with eczema to suffer from one or both of these
conditions. About 40 to 50 per cent of kids with eczema have asthma, hay
fever, or both.
What is hay fever?
Hay fever is the name given to pollen allergy. Other terms for hay fever
include “seasonal allergic rhinitis” or “pollinosis”. Symptoms include:
• Repeated and prolonged sneezing.
• Stuffy and watery nose.
• Red, swollen, and itchy eyes.
• Itchy nose, throat, and mouth.
• Itchy ears or other ear problems.
• Breathing difficulties at night due to a blocked nose.
M ana g in g C hi l dhood E czema
What happens as my child gets older?
What is asthma?
Asthma is a chronic disease that inhibits airflow in and out of the lungs.
People with asthma may respond to environmental factors, or triggers, that
do not affect most people. In response to a trigger, an asthmatic’s airway
becomes narrowed and inflamed, making it difficult to breathe and resulting
in wheezing and/or coughing.
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M ana g in g C hi l dhood E czema
18
Is it possible to catch eczema?
Eczema is definitely not contagious, so it cannot be passed from one
person to another. If you have one child with eczema and others who do not
have it, they are in no danger of ‘catching’ it.
Is childhood eczema caused by an allergy?
Childhood eczema has not been proven to be caused by an allergy;
however, children with eczema do have hypersensitive skin that may react
to allergens such as grass, pollen, house dust mites and household pets.
These allergens may aggravate the eczema and make it flare-up.
Can certain foods cause childhood eczema?
While food is not a cause of eczema, in some children, certain foods
can trigger ‘flare-ups’. If this is the case with your child, the doctor may
recommend that you consult an allergist and a dietitian. Making the right
changes to your child’s diet may reduce the number or the severity of
‘flare-ups’.
For many people, eczema has become a life-long struggle to control the
itchy, red, weeping, and oftentimes, painful condition of their skin. Although
a number of treatments have been successful in managing the terrible
discomfort of eczema, no one treatment has safely or effectively worked
for everyone, every time. Even after your skin has healed from one eczema
‘flare-up’, it is important that you continue to look after your skin. This can
help reduce ‘flare-ups’ and help you control your eczema.
Moisturizers
Moisturizers, sometimes referred to as emollients, should be used regularly
to keep skin moist and flexible. You can help your skin look and feel
better by getting into the habit of applying moisturizers after you wash or
whenever you feel that your skin needs it. Your doctor or pharmacist can
recommend a moisturizer for eczema-prone skin. It is important to always
test the emollient on a small patch of skin to ensure it will not irritate you.
For the most part, moisturizers are an oil and
water combination designed specifically for
your skin. Creams tend to be primarily made of
water, to which oil has been added and lotions
are watery creams. Ointments are different from
creams and lotions because they are generally
made of oil alone. Creams and ointments should
be applied as often as needed. Lotions tend to be
the least helpful, as they usually contain perfumes, alcohol, or preservatives
that can irritate the skin.
M ana g in g adu lt eczema
Managing adult eczema
Bathing and showering
Bathing and showering helps to hydrate your skin. You can bathe as often
as you like as long as you apply a moisturizer immediately after. Depending
on where you live, you may find that you need to hydrate your skin more or
less often. Keep the water temperature cool or warm, not hot. Soaking in
the tub can be good for your skin because it can help the skin’s outer layer
absorb water and become less dry. Soak for 5 to 10 minutes, then use a
soft towel to pat dry without rubbing.
Apply a moisturizer immediately after you pat dry your skin. This helps seal
in the moisture.
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M ana g in g adu lt eczema
The itch
The itch that accompanies eczema can be very difficult to put up with
and to manage. Scratching is difficult to resist because it can make you
feel so good in the short-term. It seems that the more you think about not
scratching, the worse the itch gets. However, it is not beneficial in the longterm as scratching damages the skin and contributes to the itch-scratchrash cycle, making it more difficult to ignore the intense itch and leading to
bleeding and oozing of the skin.
There are some practical things you can do:
• Keep
cool. Try to keep your body temperature constant, wear light
clothes, keep your bedroom cool.
• Use
moisturizers whenever you feel like scratching. Refrigerate
moisturizers; it feels great.
• Keep
fingernails short.
• Don’t
scratch. Rub or pinch the area instead of scratching.
Know your triggers
Managing your environment can be a frustrating and time-consuming job
but certain foods, pollen, air pollution, animal dander, mould, dust and dust
mites have all been linked to eczema ‘flare-ups’. If you suspect that your
eczema may be triggered by any of these irritants, talk to your doctor.
Clothes, towels, and bedding
Try to wear fabrics made of 100 per cent cotton as they seem to provide
the best comfort. Cotton is very “breathable”, which helps to prevent skin
irritation. Choose loose-fitting clothing that does not rub against the skin.
Although polyester may appear smooth and lightweight, this fabric contains
tiny fibres that can result in intense irritation. The harshness of synthetics,
wool, hemp, mohair or rough linen can also irritate skin and cause a ‘flare-up’
of symptoms. Some eczema sufferers must avoid denim and leather, which
can provoke skin due to heat build-up and the roughness of certain denim
fabrics. Residual detergent, bleach, or fabric softener left on clothes after
washing can also cause itching.
There are some practical things you can do:
• Wash
clothes in mild biodegradable, non-phosphate detergent.
• Rinse
twice if necessary.
• Avoiding
bleach or fabric softeners may also be helpful.
20
No makeup or facial cleanser is 100 per cent safe to use on your skin if you
have eczema. However, there are a number of products for sensitive skin
that are hypoallergenic. There’s a bit of trial and error involved in discovering
which products are best for you. Ask your doctor what they recommend
and you can also talk to the people who work at the makeup counters.
Always test a bit of the product before using it all over. Fragrances,
preservatives and lanolin, ingredients commonly found in cosmetics, cause
most skin problems. Also be sure to avoid putting makeup onto weeping or
very irritated skin.
How to do a patch test:
• Test the product on eczema-clear skin; under your jaw line is a good place.
• Allow the product to remain on the test area for at least 24 hours; check
for a reaction.
Soaps and hair products
Commercial soaps, hair products, perfumes, scented lotions, or shaving
cream can cause serious irritation to your skin. Bathe only with a mild soap
and use only as much as necessary. Avoid using it on your face.
M ana g in g adu lt eczema
Makeup and cleansers
Stress
Eczema can flare up when you are under stress, feel anxious, angry, or
worried. You can learn how to recognize and cope with these emotions
through stress reduction techniques available through local community
workshops. Changing your activities to reduce daily stress can also be
helpful.
Exercise can greatly reduce stress, but avoid excess sweat as it can
aggravate your eczema. Too much heat and sweat can make your skin more
irritated and itchy.
21
M ana g in g adu lt eczema
Medication
When your eczema flares up, use the medication prescribed by your doctor.
Ask what to expect from the medication and what to do if you don’t see the
results you expect. Make sure you follow up with your doctor. It’s important
that you follow your doctor’s directions for using the medication and check
the label for proper use.
For more information on eczema medications, please refer to the section on
how is eczema treated on page 23.
Ways to manage your eczema
• Don’t
scratch, moisturize!
• Follow
a daily routine, even if there is no visible eczema.
• Take
as many baths or showers as you like and always moisturize afterward.
• Keep
cool and calm.
• Wear
cotton, sleep on cotton.
• Find
out what triggers your ‘flare-ups.’
• Test
any new product for your face or body first.
• Be
patient.
• Follow
your doctor’s treatment advice.
Talking about eczema
If you have eczema, you may have had people stare at you or make unkind
comments about your appearance.
Often, eczema appears on the face or hands, and this is the first thing
that people see. Unfortunately, many people are not always as sensitive
as they should be to people who look differently than they do. Generally,
most people just need to be educated about the disease. You can help your
family, friends and co-workers understand your condition by talking to them
about it. Tell them how it affects you, what it is, and more importantly, what
it is not. There are a lot of myths out there about eczema, and generally,
once people understand the disease, they can be quite understanding and
supportive.
22
H O W I S E C Z E M A T R E AT E D ?
How is eczema treated?
Although there is still no cure for eczema and no one treatment has safely or
effectively worked for everyone, every time, there is hope and treatment.
Over the past 40 years, a number of treatments have gone a long way
towards managing the terrible discomfort of eczema. Some treatments
appear to target the origin of eczema rather than treating the symptoms
once they have already started. These treatments do not have the same
potential limitations that current treatments have. Generally, treatments like
topical steroids and antihistamines work to relieve the symptoms of eczema
once they have already appeared.
Relatively newer treatments called Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors (TCIs)
are available in Canada and some dermatologists consider them to be a
promising option in eczema therapy. TCIs appear to prevent the release of
the inflammatory substances that cause the red, itchy skin associated with
eczema. This treatment works to calm and control the skin’s reaction.
23
H O W I S E C Z E M A T R E AT E D ?
In 2010, Health Canada approved one of the available TCIs for maintenance
therapy. If you have any concerns or questions about treatments prescribed
for you or your child, talk with your doctor; he or she has the most up-todate information about eczema treatments.
To help you manage your treatment and monitor your progress, a
Treatment Progress Chart is located at the end of this section for use with
your current treatment.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are used to treat the secondary bacterial skin infections that
may accompany eczema. Bacterial infections, like staphylococcus and
streptococcus, are common in the skin of people suffering from eczema.
Scratching can cause the skin to break down, allowing these micro-organisms
to enter the body. The immune system of eczema sufferers may also be
compromised, making it more difficult to fight off skin infections.
Caution: Nausea, diarrhea, and allergic skin rashes are the most common
side-effects. It is important to notify your doctor if you experience any
unexpected side effects.
Antihistamines
These are sometimes prescribed or available over-the-counter to aid sleep
and relieve itching. However, histamine does not appear to play a major
role in the itching caused by eczema. A doctor should always be consulted
before giving antihistamines to children.
Caution: Overuse can produce excessive sedation. Use antihistamines only
when absolutely necessary.
24
Crude coal tar extracts have been used to treat the inflammation and itch of
eczema. Coal tar treatments have a soothing effect on inflamed skin. Tars
contain hundreds of chemicals, most of which have never been identified,
but seem to have a medicinal effect. However, most people shy away from
these preparations because they tend to be messy, time-consuming, smelly,
and inconvenient.
Caution: Coal tar should not be used for acute dermatitis because it may
cause stinging and irritation. As well, folliculitis (inflammation of the hair
follicle) and sensitivity to light have been reported. Speak to your doctor if
you have questions about the use of coal tar.
Phototherapy
Sunlight has been known to have a beneficial
effect on certain skin disorders. Ultraviolet
light waves found in sunlight were discovered
to be the source of this therapeutic effect.
Phototherapy uses these ultraviolet light waves
for the treatment of eczema.
H O W I S E C Z E M A T R E AT E D ?
Coal tar preparations
Most short-course photo therapies like ultraviolet A (UVA), ultraviolet B
(UVB), ultraviolet A and B (UVAB), and psoralen plus UVA (PUVA) have
shown to be beneficial for adults with severe atopic dermatitis. UVAB and
PUVA appear to be the most effective.
Caution: UVA light is the portion of sunlight responsible for changing
skin colour, or tanning. However, with prolonged exposure there is a risk
of sunburn, eye damage, skin cancer, dry skin, freckling of the skin, and
premature skin aging. Some patients actually experience a worsening of
their condition when light therapy is applied. As well, light therapy requires
several trips to the doctor’s office or clinic. This can be time consuming and
inconvenient.
25
H O W I S E C Z E M A T R E AT E D ?
Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors
For many years, doctors relied primarily on corticosteroids (‘steroid
treatments’) to treat eczema. However, significant medical advances have
resulted in the development of newer molecules to treat eczema, offering
additional treatment options to physicians and their patients.
Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors (TCIs) prevent cells in the immune system from
‘switching on’ and releasing chemicals that cause the inflammation and
itching associated with eczema.
These topical therapies can be applied directly to all affected areas of the
skin including the face, neck and eyelids, and work quickly, often within a
few days, to reduce eczema symptoms. In 2010, Health Canada approved
one of the available TCIs for maintenance therapy. Your dermatologist or
family physician will be able to provide you with more specific information
and advice on selecting the appropriate treatment.
Caution: Some patients have reported a mild-to-moderate burning
sensation on the skin after the ointment is applied. This discomfort
is usually short-lived and is limited to the area of the skin where the
medication was applied. As with any prescription medication, it is important
to follow the doctor’s advice and instructions on how to use the medication
and what to expect.
Topical Steroids
Topical steroid creams, also called cortisone creams, are applied directly
to the skin and have been a traditional treatment for eczema for the last
forty years. There are many different topical steroids which fall within one
of seven classes, ranging from Class I (super potent) to Class VII (low
potency).
Topical steroids are anti-inflammatory treatments to bring the itch of eczema
under control. They should only be used under doctor’s supervision and
it is essential to use the appropriate strength and quantity that has been
prescribed by your doctor. Only one cortisone cream can be bought from a
pharmacist without a prescription. This is hydrocortisone and it is sold as a
cream or ointment. It can be used to treat mild eczema.
26
H O W I S E C Z E M A T R E AT E D ?
Caution: When cortisone creams are correctly used under the supervision
of a physician, they can be a safe and effective treatment for eczema.
However, certain side effects have been documented. Stretch marks,
thinning skin, fragile skin, increased fine hair growth, and skin discolouration
have all been reported. These side effects are related to the potency of the
cortisone cream, where it is being used on the body and the condition of the
skin it is applied to. Cortisone creams have been shown to be less effective
when used over a long period of time. There is also a risk that they could be
absorbed into the blood through the skin. In rare instances, this could slow
growth in children by suppressing the adrenal gland. Generally, cortisone
creams are only prescribed for short periods of time. It is important not to
confuse topical steroids with those steroids used illegally for body-building
or those used in the contraceptive pill; they are completely different.
27
H O W I S E C Z E M A T R E AT E D ?
Treatment Progress Chart
Where treatment
is applied
Week 1
Week 2
Week 3
Week 4
Week 5
Week 6
28
Results
Week 7
Week 8
Week 9
Results
H O W I S E C Z E M A T R E AT E D ?
Where treatment
is applied
Week 10
Week 11
Week 12
29
RESOURCES AND SUPPORT
Books Available from
Chapters.indigo.ca
Web Resources
Baby Skin: A Leading
Dermatologist’s Guide to Infant
and Childhood Skin Care
Nelson Lee Novick
Published by Crown Publishing
Group, Incorporated, 1991
EASE Program
www.eczemacanada.ca
Coping with Eczema
Sheldon Press Staff
Published by Milestone
Publications, Limited, 1996
Eczema & Psoriasis
Stephen Terrass
Published by HarperCollins Canada,
Limited, 1995
The Psoriasis and Eczema
Solution; New Hope for Physical
and Emotional Relief
Michael F. Holick
Published by Transmedia, 1999
Atopic Dermatitis:
The Epidemiology, Causes and
Prevention of Atopic Eczema
Hywel C. Williams, 2000
30
Penny’s World
www.pennysworld.ca
Canadian Dermatology
Association
www.dermatology.ca
Eczema Informant
www.eczemainformant.com
Eczema Guide
www.eczemaguide.ca
Eczema Society of Canada
www.eczemahelp.ca
National Eczema Association
www.nationaleczema.org
National Eczema Society - UK
www.eczema.org
The American Academy of
Dermatology
www.aad.org
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RESOURCES AND SUPPORT
Notes
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RESOURCES AND SUPPORT
Notes
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RESOURCES AND SUPPORT
The information contained in this booklet has been developed by the
EASE™ Program, solely funded by an educational grant from Astellas
Pharma Canada, Inc. ©2011
EASE (Eczema Awareness, Support and Education) is a national public
education program that provides eczema sufferers, families, healthcare
professionals and the general public with accurate and comprehensive
information about eczema.
The material contained in this booklet is provided for informational purposes
only and is not a substitute for a call or visit to your physician.
33