While eczema can be a challenging condition, you can help make some small changes that can make a big difference. 

1. Keep your home environment cool to ease itching- about 18C is just right.
2. Stress is a causative factor for many conditions, and it can trigger eczema flare-ups too. Try to relax and manage your stress as best you can.
3. Keep dust at bay! Dust mites can trigger eczema.
4. Avoid fragrances at home, as they may irritate your skin. Perfumes and smelly creams on the skin should also be avoided.
5. Leave approximately 10 minutes between applying an emollient and a topical steroid, to stop the steroid spreading to areas of unaffected skin or dilution of the steroid. 
6. Pinch rather than scratch itchy skin, to avoid damaging the skin’s barrier. Always keep nails (especially on young children) short and clean.
7. Use your emollients at least twice daily to prevent dryness, and at other times whenever your skin feels dry and itchy. Warmer weather may affect skin dryness – keep well hydrated.
8. Check with your healthcare professional for advice to make sure you are applying your creams correctly and managing your eczema triggers well.
9. Do not cut out certain foods from your diet without medical advice. If you’ve been diagnosed with a food allergy, then that food can be taken out, but it’s best to consult your GP or nutritionist first.
10. If you feel eczema is negatively affecting your quality of life talk to someone like a family member, trusted friend, your GP or visit www.eczema.org

For more advice on managing your eczema call the National Eczema Society Helpline on 0800 089 1122 (8 am-8 pm, Monday-to-Friday) or email your questions to helpline@eczema.org