Eczema can be tricky, and there's a lot of wrong info out there. So, let's set the record straight. Here are some of the common misconceptions surrounding the condition.
If you're a parent, chances are you've heard about it or maybe even seen those red, itchy patches on your little one's skin. Eczema is super common among children, but the topic of how to manage this particular condition stirs up a lot of talk and confusion.
From old wives' tales to the mountain of myths online, everyone has a different idea about what eczema is and how to deal with it. But don't worry, this article is meant to debunk those myths and help you find a tried and tested way to manage eczema in your family.
What is Eczema
According to the National Eczema Association, eczema is the name that refers to a group of inflammatory skin conditions that cause itchiness, dry skin, rashes, scaly patches, blisters and skin infections.
It can “begin during childhood, adolescence, or adulthood — and it can range from mild to severe.”
In young children, the common representation of eczema is patches of skin that are extremely dry; itchy skin that can lead to blisters and skin infections due to excessive scratching.
Adults can also experience flare-ups on their skin due to eczema which can last for days or even several weeks. The severity can be from mild to having additional complications beyond itchy skin and rashes and can even lead to hospitalisation if left untreated.
Let’s Debunk These 7 Myths Surrounding Eczema
There's a lot of wrong info out there that might keep people from getting the help they need for eczema. Here’s the lowdown on what it is, how it affects people, and the best ways to manage it. Time to debunk some myths!
Myth 1: Eczema is contagious.
One of the most common myths about eczema is that it's contagious. You cannot catch eczema by touching someone who has it. The condition is related to genetic and environmental factors, not a virus or bacteria that can be passed from person to person.
Myth 2: Eczema is caused by poor hygiene.
This myth can be particularly harmful, as it places unnecessary blame on the individual or their caregivers. Eczema is not caused by poor hygiene. In fact, over-washing or using harsh soaps can aggravate eczema symptoms.
Again, we need to understand that eczema's causes are more related to genetic factors and the immune system than to cleanliness.
Myth 3: Eczema is only for kids.
While it’s true that many children will show signs of eczema before they reach their first birthday, the reality is that you can develop this itchy skin condition at any time.
For this reason, you must pay attention to the warning signs of eczema and continue to moisturise your skin daily with a mild but effective skincare product.
On the other side of the coin, just because you have a history of eczema in your family, doesn’t mean that you or your children will automatically get it.
Myth 4: Eczema will get better on its own.
Unfortunately, we cannot just wish for the itching and irritation to go away. The symptoms need to be treated to prevent more serious complications.
If you let your skin issues go too long without treatment, it can result in skin damage from scratching and painful bacterial infections (especially if you scratch your skin with dirty hands) that make your eczema symptoms even more unbearable.
The key to managing your eczema is to begin treatment at the first signs of the skin irritation to prevent the worsening of your symptoms.
Myth 5: All eczema is the same.
Eczema can vary significantly from person to person in terms of symptoms, severity, and triggers. What works for one individual may not work for another. It’s important to have a personalised management plan advised by your dermatologist.
Myth 6: Treatment will cure eczema for good.
This brings us to one of the most pervasive myths: that once treated, eczema goes away forever.
Eczema is a chronic condition, and while symptoms can be managed and flare-ups minimised, there is currently no lasting cure. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing flare-ups.
Myth 7: Some activities are off-limits for eczema-prone skin.
Sure, having eczema means being a bit more cautious, but it doesn't mean you have to miss out on all the fun. Whether it's swimming, playing sports, or soaking up the sun, people with eczema can still enjoy life's activities.
The key is to take some extra precautions, like using the right skincare products, staying hydrated, and protecting your skin from harsh elements. With a little care and smart planning, you can keep your skin happy and healthy while still living life to the fullest.
Your Best Weapon Against Eczema: Bepanthen Eczema Range
When it comes to managing the unwanted symptoms of eczema, there’s one brand that has been proven effective in helping manage damaged skin from the inside out. Bepanthen, the world’s no.1 non-prescription skincare brand has an outstanding eczema range that is specially formulated to address the needs of eczema-prone skin sufferers.
With its unique formulation, 90% natural origin ingredients & clinically tested efficacy, you don’t have to worry about itchy skin daily and focus on doing the things that you love.
BEPANTHEN SensiWash Daily Gentle Body Wash
If your skin's sensitive and you dread shower time because of harsh body washes, BEPANTHEN SensiWash Daily Gentle Body Wash is here to change your mind. This body wash is like a gentle hug for your skin, with a formula that includes prebiotics and a vitamin complex designed to clean your skin and give it a big boost of hydration.
It goes the extra mile to support your skin's natural defenses, so you're left feeling clean and cared for, not stripped and stressed. This mild cleanser is made of 90% natural origin ingredients and has no fragrances, colorants, preservatives, or steroids.
SensiWash effectively cleanses and soothes itchy, eczema-prone skin for individuals of all ages, starting from infants as young as 1 month old, containing pro-vitamin B5 and prebiotic to protect the healthy skin barrier, provide 24-hour hydration, and maintain the skin's natural pH value.
Hypoallergenic and gentle, it's the body wash your skin has been waiting for, making shower time something to look forward to again.
BEPANTHEN SensiDaily Daily Moisturizer
Not all moisturisers are created equal, especially if you’ve got sensitive skin. Lotions with harsh scents and chemicals may do even more harm than good when you’re dealing with eczema. Luckily, BEPANTHEN SensiDaily Daily Moisturizer is not your average moisturizer.
It's packed with a unique Derma-Defense Formula that targets 3 key skin barriers, helping to keep your skin moisturized and free from flare-ups for at least three months. It is made from 90 percent natural ingredients and contains prebiotics that support the skin's microflora.
BEPANTHEN SensiDaily Daily Moisturizer is clinically tested, suitable for all ages including infants, hypoallergenic and free of fragrances, colorants and preservatives, making it a perfect everyday moisturizer for eczema-prone skin.
Combining BEPANTHEN SensiDaily Daily Moisturizer with BEPANTHEN SensiWash Daily Gentle Body Wash offers a powerful duo for anyone battling eczema's challenges. This dynamic pair works in harmony to manage eczema symptoms effectively and keep those pesky flare-ups at bay.
BEPANTHEN Itch Relief Cream
However, there are still times when skin irritation and eczema get the better of you. On those days when you need a product that relieves skin irritation quickly, BEPANTHEN Itch Relief Cream is your best bet.
This non-steroidal cream works wonders by soothing itching and redness in just 30 minutes while also helping restore the skin barrier. Packed with special Lipid Lamellar Technology™, it mimics the skin's natural lipids, along with moisturizing factors like glycerin and Provitamin B5 for lasting hydration. Say goodbye to dry, irritated skin!
This game-changer will hit shelves by May 2024, so keep an eye out!
Together, these products not only soothe and calm your skin on a daily basis but also arm it with the necessary defences to maintain its health and minimise the frequency and intensity of eczema episodes, helping you worry less about skin irritation and focus more on doing the things you love, with the people you love.
Click here to learn more about Bepanthen’s eczema range and where to buy them.