Eczema flare-ups may appear anywhere and anytime and cause the skin to be red, itchy, and flaky.
At Grace Health Clinic, we know how uncomfortable and sudden skin issues like eczema can be. It may be stress-related, allergic, or simply the moment, but our team will give you a quick and efficient solution.
Below, we outline 5 urgent steps to soothe your skin and minimize damage during an eczema flare-up.
What Is Eczema?
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a long-lasting skin issue. Eczema can affect both minors and adults. It may appear on various parts of the body, including:
- The face
- Hands
- Arms
- Behind the knees
At Grace Health Clinic, we often see patients with this condition. We’re ready to provide urgent care when needed.
Common Causes of Eczema Flare-Ups
Flare-ups can be triggered by almost anything:
- Dry weather
- Harsh soaps or chemicals
- Stress
- Allergies
- Even your favorite wool sweater
Signs Your Eczema Flare-Up Is Getting Worse
You need to move fast if you see any of the following:
- Oozing or crusting skin
- Thickened patches
- Redness that spreads
- Intense, burning itch
If you’re unsure about needing medical care, visit Grace Health Clinic. You can get a same-day evaluation without an appointment.
5 Urgent Steps to Soothe Your Skin
Step 1: Stay Calm and Identify the Trigger
When you initially see an eczema flare, take a full breath. Eczema reactions can be set off by a multitude of causes, such as:
- Stress
- Certain foods
- Environmental changes
Find the origin of the flare-up. Explore if you have changed your habits, tested new items, or struggled with extreme temperatures. This helps you treat the current flare-up and avoid future ones.
Step 2: Apply a Cold Compress
Eczema makes people want to scratch. But scratching makes the irritation worse. It can even lead to infections. Apply a cold compress to soothe the skin during a flare-up.
How to use a cold compress:
- Wrap some ice in a clean cloth.
- Gently press it against the irritated skin for 10-15 minutes.
It can reduce inflammation and the urge to scratch, making your symptoms worse, because you shouldn’t just place ice directly on your skin for coolness.
At Grace Health Clinic, we provide in-clinic exams and treatment for itchy, dry skin and allergic reactions. We can also prescribe medications if needed.
Step 3: Use a Gentle, Fragrance-Free Moisturizer
Eczema can be fought with moisturizer. Select a hypoallergenic cream in a scent-free, sensitive, or eczema-satisfying moisturizing product.
Tips:
- Apply right after bathing or washing hands.
- Wait a few minutes before dressing to allow complete absorption.
- Use multiple times a day during flare-ups.
At Grace Health Clinic, we recommend and even provide in-clinic treatments using gentle topical creams when flare-ups are severe or recurrent.
Step 4: Take an Oatmeal Bath
An oatmeal bath may be of relief where eczema flares up. Oatmeal possesses natural cases of inflammations that facilitate the limitations of itching and irritation.
How to have a bath of oatmeal:
- Put colloidal oatmeal into lukewarm water.
- Soak for 15 to 20 minutes.
It will assist you in relaxing and moisturize your skin.
Avoid hot water, which may dry up your skin and worsen the eczema. Always bathe using lukewarm water.
Step 5: Use Medication (If Needed and Safe)
Intense flare-ups need prescription care. You can try:
- Hydrocortisone (mild steroid), containing over-the-counter creams, will reduce itching
- Antihistamines to stop allergic itching, especially at night
In case of no improvement within a couple of days, seek the attention of your doctor or skin specialist.
Always check labels. If you’re uncertain about a medication for you or your child, let Grace Health Clinic and Urgent Care help you.
We also offer prescription-strength treatments for patients who need more support.
Prevent Future Eczema Flare-Ups
To avoid recurring flare-ups:
- Keep your skin healthy by moisturizing every day.
- Stay clear of fragrant, colored, or alcoholic products.
- Choose soft, porous clothes such as cotton.
- Lose the tension by relaxing your body through breathing or meditation methods.
The whole-person approach is an essential part of Grace Health Clinic. We want to ensure you can deal with stress, its health consequences, and eczema, among other problems.
When to Consult a Doctor for Eczema
If your skin:
- Looks very red or swollen
- Has yellow or green crusts
- Hurts a lot or bleeds often
- Doesn’t get better in a few days
We provide same-day eczema treatment at Grace Health Clinic and Urgent Care; no appointment is needed. Walk in today for expert care and skin-saving solutions.
Final Thoughts
Eczema can be frustrating. Skin flare-ups are itchy and painful but manageable. Feel better quickly by using the five steps of urgency.
Moisturize your skin and avoid your triggers. The timely action can prevent the progression of a flare-up and make your skin feel safe once more.
There is nothing wrong with seeking assistance. See a doctor when your skin does not heal or when it worsens.
At Grace Health Clinic, we address numerous non-life-threatening cases of skin disorders, which come in various forms, such as eczema, allergic reactions, and rashes. Our staff is educated, caring, and available to make you feel good in no time.
We offer a flat-rate fee of just $200 for most urgent care services. That includes:
- Your visit and exam
- Immediate in-clinic lab tests
- Any medications we provide during your visit
Contact us at Grace Health Clinic and Urgent Care for eczema flare-ups or any urgent but non-emergency needs.
FAQs
Q: Does Vaseline help in eczema flares?
Yes! Vaseline can be considered one of the best occlusives; it locks in moisture and protects protective skin barrier.
Q: Can stress cause a flare-up?
Yes, stress activates hormones that worsen skin issues.
Q: Do I leave the rash dry or moisturize it?
Always moisturize. Cracking, itching, and infections are more likely to develop on dry skin.