AS we enter the final month of winter, Marraboor Pharmacy is urging its customers to be extra vigilant about looking after their skin.
The cooler temperatures and winter lifestyle makes skin more susceptible to redness, irritation, sensitivity and eczema.
“Commonly, we see eczema get worse in the winter,” Marraboor Pharmacy pharmacist Jarred Kiel said.
“The dry air and low humidity levels, use of indoor heating systems, combined with hot showers and use of soap-based products can pull moisture out of the skin.
“A lack of moisture and oil in the skin weakens your natural protective barrier. At Marraboor Pharmacy, our pharmacists want to help our patients better manage their eczema.
“We aim to improve overall skin health outcomes of patients suffering from Atopic Dermatitis or Problematic Skin.”
Eczema is a broad definition of a group of skin conditions that may cause it to become red, dry, itchy and scaly.
In severe cases, it may weep, bleed and crust over.
It can appear anywhere on your body but is most common around the face, hands, neck, inner elbows, back of the knees and ankles.
Whilst the exact cause of eczema is unknown, some risks and triggers are a family history of eczema, stress, allergies and irritants such as tobacco smoke and chemicals.
“Treatment options for eczema focus on symptom control,” Mr Kiel said.
“Moisturising and keeping your skin’s moisture intact is one of the most important things you can do to help control your eczema.
“We also recommend avoiding soap which is alkaline and very drying to skin with eczema.
“Instead, use a mild liquid cleanser that is free of preservatives and fragrance when washing.
“Also, identifying and avoiding triggers that worsen the condition is crucial.
“Our pharmacists are happy to talk to you about your options for treatment of flare-ups as well options for maintaining skin health.”
