Patient/caregiver was educated on measures to manage and prevent contact eczema as follows:
- Soaking the irritated skin in warm oatmeal bath for 15 minutes, pat drying the skin gently, and applying gentle moisturizer can ease the itch and prevent further irritation of the skin. Use mild soaps, shampoos, deodorants, and perfumes, as they could contain chemical triggering activation of eczema. Individuals with strong history of allergies to soaps and cosmetic products must prefer using products listed as hypoallergenic or unscented, to avoid a contact eczema response from developing.
- Maintain a diary for contact allergies and update the diary as allergic symptoms are noted for any new source. Clean the skin with mild soap and warm water upon presentation with symptoms of eczema due to contact with any new agent, such as, clothing, perfume, or cosmetics. This helps to wash away the effect of the triggering agent on the skin. Blot the skin dry gently with a clean towel. Applying OTC calamine lotion or 1% hydrocortisone cream to the irritated skin can offer relief and help ease the itch.
- Individuals with history of frequent exacerbation of contact eczema must strictly avoid contact with and stop handling the triggering agents. Also, individuals with this history must avoid changing cosmetics, moisturizers, oils, perfumes, soaps, shampoos, shaving creams, and clothing materials frequently and continue with items that appeal to the nature of their skin.
