Simple and Effective Strategies for Eczema Flare Relief
Eczema is known as a remitting and relapsing condition – meaning there are periods of flares or worsening of the condition and other times where the skin is clear, or symptoms are reduced.
What can we do during a flare to treat the skin, improve discomfort, and reduce distress?
ESC asked Dr. Joseph Lam, MD, FRCPC, for tips on managing an acute eczema flare.
Dr. Lam tells us, “Acute flares are inevitable. However, they can usually be controlled very well. The first step is to recognize when a flare is happening. You usually feel itching and discomfort over the skin that is breaking out with eczema. If you can get on top of the flare early, you can usually clear the flare faster. It’s almost like putting out a fire. The faster you get water on the fire, the faster it goes out.”
We asked Dr. Lam for suggestions for handling a sudden eczema flare.
“There are a few things patients can do to feel more comfortable during a flare:
- Apply a cool compress or wet towel to the affected area
- Encourage deep breathing – relaxing yourself or an upset child is key!
- Once the skin has cooled, you can apply topical treatments
- Let your child know the medication is their “fire extinguisher” to put out the flare
- Distract yourself from scratching with a preferred activity
- Talk to your doctor to ensure your treatment plan is optimized
Additional strategies for caregivers:
- With children, wait until they are calm before applying topical treatments
- Let your child know it’s not their fault they are itchy and feel like they need to scratch. Make the ‘eczema flare’ the ‘bad guy’ (and not the child)
- Reassure and validate your child – let them know you can see how uncomfortable they are
- Provide a distraction (e.g. a favourite book or game) to help your child through their flare
- Talk to your doctor if you are unsure!”
Eczema Society of Canada thanks paediatrician Dr. Joseph Lam, MD, FRCPC, for his volunteer contribution to this educational content.
This blog was developed as part of our Life with Eczema program, and funding support for this initiative has been provided by AbbVie, Pfizer Canada, and Sanofi.
Disclaimer: Information provided in this resource does not constitute medical advice and is not intended to be used as a diagnostic tool. The information is up-to-date at time of publication. All medications, interventions, and treatment plans have risks and benefits, and it is important that individuals discuss their or their child’s specific healthcare needs with a qualified healthcare professional.
October 2024
