Managing Eczema in Malaysia: 10 Tips for Repairing Dry, Itchy and Sensitive Skin

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Eczema is a common skin condition that affects many Malaysians, impacting their quality of life. 

It can be uncomfortable, itchy, and frustrating, especially for those who have tried various treatments with little success. If you or your child are suffering from eczema, we understand the challenges you face daily.

That's why we've compiled the ultimate guide to managing eczema, with 10 tips for soothing itchy, sensitive skin. Incorporate these tips into your daily routine, and you'll be on your way to healthier, happier skin.

One of the most important things you can do to manage eczema is to keep your skin moisturized.

According to the National Eczema Association, moisturizing is a key component in treating atopic dermatitis (eczema).

Use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizers that are specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Apply the moisturizer at least twice daily, especially after bathing when your skin is still damp, to lock in moisture.

Step-by-Step Guide to Moisturizing:

a. After showering or bathing, gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel.

b. Apply a generous amount of a gentle moisturizer within 3 minutes of exiting the shower or bath.

c. Pay special attention to areas where eczema is more prevalent, such as elbows, knees, and the neck.

For eczema flare-ups, it's crucial to address itchiness and promote wound healing to prevent further skin damage.

Jolicare Cream is an effective herbal treatment cream that stops itchiness, repairs wounds, and soothes rashes. With over 10,230 happy customers in Malaysia, it has proven to be a reliable solution for managing eczema symptoms.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Jolicare Cream:

1. Clean the affected area gently with mild soap and water.
2. Pat the skin dry with a soft, clean towel.
3. Apply a thin layer of Jolicare Cream to the affected area.
4. Gently massage the cream into the skin until fully absorbed.
5. Use Jolicare Cream as directed on the packaging, or consult your doctor for specific instructions.

In Malaysia's tropical climate, sweat and humidity can make eczema-prone skin more sensitive.

Avoid using harsh soaps, detergents, and skincare products that can strip your skin of its natural oils and exacerbate eczema. 

According to a review published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology, using gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and body washes designed for sensitive skin can help improve eczema symptoms.

Jolicare Body Shampoo is specially formulated to clean, soothe, and moisturize without causing irritation. It contains a combination of 7 different herbs from Korea that strengthen your skin's anti-oxidation and anti-inflammatory properties, helping it heal naturally.

Taking hot showers or baths may feel relaxing, but they can actually worsen eczema symptoms.

Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to increased dryness and irritation.

This is particularly important in Malaysia, where the hot and humid weather can already put a strain on your skin's moisture balance.

To preserve your skin's natural moisture, follow these recommendations:

• Opt for lukewarm water: When showering or bathing, use lukewarm water instead of hot water. This helps maintain your skin's natural oils and prevents excessive dryness.
• Limit shower time: Keep your showers or baths short, ideally no longer than 10-15 minutes. Spending too much time in water can cause further drying of the skin.
• Pat skin dry: After showering or bathing, gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing it. This helps avoid irritation and keeps the skin's moisture intact.

By following these guidelines, you can minimize the negative effects of hot showers and baths on eczema-prone skin, leading to improved skin health and reduced symptoms.

The clothing you wear can have a significant impact on eczema-prone skin, especially in Malaysia's hot and humid climate.

Certain fabrics can cause friction and irritation, exacerbating itching and inflammation.

To reduce the likelihood of irritation and promote skin healing, it's essential to select the right clothing materials and styles.

Here are some tips for choosing eczema-friendly clothing:

• Opt for natural, breathable fabrics: Choose clothing made from soft, breathable materials like cotton, bamboo, or Tencel. These fabrics allow for better air circulation and reduce the risk of skin irritation. Avoid synthetic materials like polyester or nylon, as they can trap heat and moisture, causing discomfort and exacerbating eczema symptoms.

• Avoid rough or scratchy materials: Steer clear of fabrics with a rough texture, such as wool or coarse linen. These materials can cause friction on the skin, leading to increased itching and irritation.

• Loose-fitting is best: Opt for loose-fitting clothing that doesn't rub against the skin. Tight clothing can cause friction and irritation, worsening eczema symptoms.

• Minimize seams and labels: Choose clothing with minimal seams or with seams on the outside, to reduce the risk of skin irritation. Additionally, remove clothing labels or select garments with printed labels to avoid itchiness and discomfort.

• Wash clothing with care: Use a gentle, fragrance-free laundry detergent to wash your clothes. Harsh detergents or fabric softeners can leave residue on clothing that can irritate sensitive skin. Rinse your clothes thoroughly to remove any traces of detergent, and consider an extra rinse cycle if needed.

Stress can trigger or worsen eczema symptoms, making it essential to manage stress levels.

According to a study in Acta Dermato-Venereologica, individuals with eczema experienced increased itchiness and skin lesions during periods of stress.

Incorporate stress management techniques into your daily routine, such as practising mindfulness, engaging in physical activity, or seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional.

Allergens, like dust mites, pet dander, and pollen, can trigger eczema flare-ups.

In Malaysia, high humidity can lead to increased allergens in your home. Keep your home clean and free of allergens by regularly vacuuming, washing bedding, and using air purifiers.

Also, consider using hypoallergenic pillows and mattress covers to minimize exposure to dust mites.

Scratching eczema-affected skin can worsen the condition and increase the risk of infection.

Keep your nails short and smooth to minimize damage from scratching.

If needed, wear soft cotton gloves at night to prevent unconscious scratching during sleep.

Diet can play a role in managing eczema symptoms. Some Malaysians may find relief from eczema by eliminating certain foods that trigger inflammation.

Common culprits include dairy, eggs, gluten, and processed foods. Also, be cautious with spicy foods, as they may exacerbate itching and inflammation in some individuals.

Consult a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet.

If you're struggling to manage your eczema symptoms in Malaysia, it's important to consult a dermatologist.

A dermatologist can help identify potential triggers and recommend appropriate treatments tailored to your specific needs.

Managing eczema in Malaysia's tropical climate is a long-term process that requires consistent care and attention.

By incorporating these 10 tips into your daily routine, you can help soothe itchy, sensitive skin and improve your overall quality of life. 

Remember that Jolicare offers a range of herbal-based sensitive skincare products, like Jolicare Cream and Jolicare Body Shampoo, designed to provide relief from eczema symptoms.

With proper care and the right products, you can take control of your eczema and live freely.