Eczema and dry skin

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Replies

  • firlena227
    firlena227 Posts: 86 Member
    How's your housekeeping? Dust makes my bf's eczema flare up like crazy, so could be an allergen for you if you've just left home & maybe not thinking so much about the vacuuming!
    It might also be worth speaking to a pharmacist/practice nurse to check that it definitely is eczema, if it's another skin condition like psoriasis or a fungal infection then it will need different treatment.
  • ogtmama
    ogtmama Posts: 1,403 Member
    edited November 2016
    Ming1951 wrote: »
    In the past year I have also developed some type of Eczema on my scalp, not all over but in several spots. Had the doctor check it and order me a script shampoo but I didn't get it as it was over $400. and with insurance and I can't afford that. So I also have some steroid drops from dermatologist which helps the itch somewhat. I also have tried tea tree oil but so far I'm still battling it. I guess I will have to go back to the dermatologist.

    This sounds like psoriasis which is what I have. There is an over the counter version as well as lotions and oils that are more affordable...do you get it in/on your ears as well?
  • Ming1951
    Ming1951 Posts: 514 Member
    ogtmama wrote: »
    Ming1951 wrote: »
    In the past year I have also developed some type of Eczema on my scalp, not all over but in several spots. Had the doctor check it and order me a script shampoo but I didn't get it as it was over $400. and with insurance and I can't afford that. So I also have some steroid drops from dermatologist which helps the itch somewhat. I also have tried tea tree oil but so far I'm still battling it. I guess I will have to go back to the dermatologist.

    This sounds like psoriasis which is what I have. There is an over the counter version as well as lotions and oils that are more affordable...do you get it in/on your ears as well?

    Yes! I get some on my ears as well. I have itchy ears :( as well. This itching is driving me crazy, I did buy some over the counter cream which is helping with some itching however as soon as I sweat, it gets it going more.
  • ogtmama
    ogtmama Posts: 1,403 Member
    Ming1951 wrote: »
    ogtmama wrote: »
    Ming1951 wrote: »
    In the past year I have also developed some type of Eczema on my scalp, not all over but in several spots. Had the doctor check it and order me a script shampoo but I didn't get it as it was over $400. and with insurance and I can't afford that. So I also have some steroid drops from dermatologist which helps the itch somewhat. I also have tried tea tree oil but so far I'm still battling it. I guess I will have to go back to the dermatologist.

    This sounds like psoriasis which is what I have. There is an over the counter version as well as lotions and oils that are more affordable...do you get it in/on your ears as well?

    Yes! I get some on my ears as well. I have itchy ears :( as well. This itching is driving me crazy, I did buy some over the counter cream which is helping with some itching however as soon as I sweat, it gets it going more.

    Go see a dermatologist...in the meantime you can try hydrocortisone cream.
  • ogtmama
    ogtmama Posts: 1,403 Member
    ogtmama wrote: »
    Ming1951 wrote: »
    ogtmama wrote: »
    Ming1951 wrote: »
    In the past year I have also developed some type of Eczema on my scalp, not all over but in several spots. Had the doctor check it and order me a script shampoo but I didn't get it as it was over $400. and with insurance and I can't afford that. So I also have some steroid drops from dermatologist which helps the itch somewhat. I also have tried tea tree oil but so far I'm still battling it. I guess I will have to go back to the dermatologist.

    This sounds like psoriasis which is what I have. There is an over the counter version as well as lotions and oils that are more affordable...do you get it in/on your ears as well?

    Yes! I get some on my ears as well. I have itchy ears :( as well. This itching is driving me crazy, I did buy some over the counter cream which is helping with some itching however as soon as I sweat, it gets it going more.

    Go see a dermatologist...in the meantime you can try hydrocortisone cream.

    My family doctor told me I had tinea capitis and I used the wrong shampoo for 2 months, it made me crazy! Anyhoo...ask about more affordable options cause they are definitely out there. The only really expensive one was $110 for my eyelids but I'm in Canada so I don't know the difference where you are.
  • Ming1951
    Ming1951 Posts: 514 Member


    Go see a dermatologist...in the meantime you can try hydrocortisone cream.[/quote]
    Thankyou, I have seen a dermatologist about a year ago, guess its time to go again. Appreciate you're a advise.
  • SuperNerd42
    SuperNerd42 Posts: 47 Member
    I get eczema in winter. I've found that Eucerin eczema lotion works best of the OTCs for me. Otherwise a steroid from the dermo when it really flares up.

    If you have very bad seasonal and pollen allergies has your allergist ever mentioned an Oral Allergy Syndrome? The pollens naturally occurring in raw fruits and vegetables can sometimes trigger an allergic response in people with severe allergies. If other avenues are coming up short it might be worth asking your doc.
  • bexilashious
    bexilashious Posts: 116 Member
    I have psoriasis all over my scalp
    I use coconut oil three times a week
    I lather it all over my head, wrap in a towel and leave it in overnight. Wash it out the next morning and it really helps keep it at bay.
  • Psychgrrl
    Psychgrrl Posts: 3,177 Member
    Eczema is generally a symptom of a struggling thyroid (your thyroid controls skin hydration levels). Some things you can try:

    Eat iodine rich and thyroid supporting foods (cruciferous and sea vegetables, fish, etc).
    Irish Moss Lotion topically
    Lugol's Iodine topically
    Nature's sunshine makes a Thyroid Activator and Thyroid Support herbal supplements - these have worked great for my family, they clear everything up within a couple days, keep taking for about a week after symptoms are gone.

    OP, please don't try to self-treat your thyroid. If you're concerned it could be a thyroid issue, please see your doctor.
  • Psychgrrl
    Psychgrrl Posts: 3,177 Member
    ogtmama wrote: »
    Ming1951 wrote: »
    In the past year I have also developed some type of Eczema on my scalp, not all over but in several spots. Had the doctor check it and order me a script shampoo but I didn't get it as it was over $400. and with insurance and I can't afford that. So I also have some steroid drops from dermatologist which helps the itch somewhat. I also have tried tea tree oil but so far I'm still battling it. I guess I will have to go back to the dermatologist.

    This sounds like psoriasis which is what I have. There is an over the counter version as well as lotions and oils that are more affordable...do you get it in/on your ears as well?

    I have psoriasis on my scalp as well. Ugh! I use a conditioner with Neem oil. Also treat with Neem directly once a week. Be aware--Neem is NOT an aroma therapy oil, it stinks! I also eat a tablespoon of organic honey made from Neem flowers daily. Really bad stress makes it flare, but otherwise, it's pretty well controlled and unnoticeable.
  • rainbowbow
    rainbowbow Posts: 7,490 Member
    Psychgrrl wrote: »
    ogtmama wrote: »
    Ming1951 wrote: »
    In the past year I have also developed some type of Eczema on my scalp, not all over but in several spots. Had the doctor check it and order me a script shampoo but I didn't get it as it was over $400. and with insurance and I can't afford that. So I also have some steroid drops from dermatologist which helps the itch somewhat. I also have tried tea tree oil but so far I'm still battling it. I guess I will have to go back to the dermatologist.

    This sounds like psoriasis which is what I have. There is an over the counter version as well as lotions and oils that are more affordable...do you get it in/on your ears as well?

    I have psoriasis on my scalp as well. Ugh! I use a conditioner with Neem oil. Also treat with Neem directly once a week. Be aware--Neem is NOT an aroma therapy oil, it stinks! I also eat a tablespoon of organic honey made from Neem flowers daily. Really bad stress makes it flare, but otherwise, it's pretty well controlled and unnoticeable.

    you know, i'm curious about this....

    My s/o has been to multiple dermos over the past 6 years for a patch on his scalp that is red and flaky (we call it his "lucky patch" like nemo's lucky fin). Anyways, he has been told its multiple things including sebborheic dermatitis.

    Literally nothing we have used has fixed it. No amount of medication, steroids, urea cream, special shampoos, no-sulfate shampoos, scalp oils, nioxin, etc. has helped.


    So to those of you who have psoriasis.... do you only have it on your scalp? Maybe we've been treating him wrong this whole time! I am desperate to help him....
  • MarziPanda95
    MarziPanda95 Posts: 1,326 Member
    My housemate's eczema always triggered when he moved out. When he lived with his mum over summer he was fine, as soon as he moves back to the city where we go to university (20 minutes from his mum's house) it gets bad. When he's back at his mum's over Christmas he's fine again. It could be environmental. He thinks it might be mould/damp, as we live in a student house, and student houses are poorly maintained around here... lots of damp and dark mould in the corners. Might want to have a look.
    He got some strong cream from the doctors that helps when he's here at uni.
  • Ming1951
    Ming1951 Posts: 514 Member
    So to those of you who have psoriasis.... do you only have it on your scalp? Maybe we've been treating him wrong this whole time! I am desperate to help him....

    I only developed this in my 60's and its only been on my scalp.
  • rainbowbow
    rainbowbow Posts: 7,490 Member
    Ming1951 wrote: »
    So to those of you who have psoriasis.... do you only have it on your scalp? Maybe we've been treating him wrong this whole time! I am desperate to help him....

    I only developed this in my 60's and its only been on my scalp.

    thanks!
  • BananaBite
    BananaBite Posts: 135 Member
    I've had terrible eczema since birth. My best advice is too drink plenty of water and take plenty of showers to hydrate and moisturize your skin. I know its basic advice, but this is all I can say.

    Try to invest in a clarisonic, find a hydrating cleanser and moisturizer. I use Clinique daily moisturizer and CeraVe cleanser. It really helps my facial eczema. I've also heard using coconut oil, olive oil, and shea butter are great to moisturize the body.
  • ogtmama
    ogtmama Posts: 1,403 Member
    rainbowbow wrote: »
    Psychgrrl wrote: »
    ogtmama wrote: »
    Ming1951 wrote: »
    In the past year I have also developed some type of Eczema on my scalp, not all over but in several spots. Had the doctor check it and order me a script shampoo but I didn't get it as it was over $400. and with insurance and I can't afford that. So I also have some steroid drops from dermatologist which helps the itch somewhat. I also have tried tea tree oil but so far I'm still battling it. I guess I will have to go back to the dermatologist.

    This sounds like psoriasis which is what I have. There is an over the counter version as well as lotions and oils that are more affordable...do you get it in/on your ears as well?

    I have psoriasis on my scalp as well. Ugh! I use a conditioner with Neem oil. Also treat with Neem directly once a week. Be aware--Neem is NOT an aroma therapy oil, it stinks! I also eat a tablespoon of organic honey made from Neem flowers daily. Really bad stress makes it flare, but otherwise, it's pretty well controlled and unnoticeable.

    you know, i'm curious about this....

    My s/o has been to multiple dermos over the past 6 years for a patch on his scalp that is red and flaky (we call it his "lucky patch" like nemo's lucky fin). Anyways, he has been told its multiple things including sebborheic dermatitis.

    Literally nothing we have used has fixed it. No amount of medication, steroids, urea cream, special shampoos, no-sulfate shampoos, scalp oils, nioxin, etc. has helped.


    So to those of you who have psoriasis.... do you only have it on your scalp? Maybe we've been treating him wrong this whole time! I am desperate to help him....

    Mine is on my scalp, ears, eyelids, and elbows...but my understanding is that if it were psoriasis, the steroids would have helped.
  • I've had terrible eczema since birth. My best advice is too drink plenty of water and take plenty of showers to hydrate and moisturize your skin. I know its basic advice, but this is all I can say.

    Try to invest in a clarisonic, find a hydrating cleanser and moisturizer. I use Clinique daily moisturizer and CeraVe cleanser. It really helps my facial eczema. I've also heard using coconut oil, olive oil, and shea butter are great to moisturize the body.


    I actually use CereVe lotion and either I wash my hands too much or I gained an immunity to the lotion since my hands are so dry my skin is cracking and barely bleeding
  • Ming1951 wrote: »
    So to those of you who have psoriasis.... do you only have it on your scalp? Maybe we've been treating him wrong this whole time! I am desperate to help him....

    I only developed this in my 60's and its only been on my scalp.

    I had Psoriasis since it runs on my mom's side mine was on my scalp in 9th grade my Psoriasis is a come and go but goes away without treatment my eczema runs on my dad's side so kind of cursed with skin disorders
  • firlena227 wrote: »
    How's your housekeeping? Dust makes my bf's eczema flare up like crazy, so could be an allergen for you if you've just left home & maybe not thinking so much about the vacuuming!
    It might also be worth speaking to a pharmacist/practice nurse to check that it definitely is eczema, if it's another skin condition like psoriasis or a fungal infection then it will need different treatment.

    My housekeeping is pretty good only fairly bad in the garage I live in a group home so staff members usually take care of housekeeping I am thinking it's environmental now since it started 2 months after moving out of my mom's house even though I live 20 minutes away from her I am also allergic to dust pollen trees and grass but I had more by where my mom lives so idk what's going on but I think it can be environmental
  • ogtmama wrote: »
    Ming1951 wrote: »
    ogtmama wrote: »
    Ming1951 wrote: »
    In the past year I have also developed some type of Eczema on my scalp, not all over but in several spots. Had the doctor check it and order me a script shampoo but I didn't get it as it was over $400. and with insurance and I can't afford that. So I also have some steroid drops from dermatologist which helps the itch somewhat. I also have tried tea tree oil but so far I'm still battling it. I guess I will have to go back to the dermatologist.

    This sounds like psoriasis which is what I have. There is an over the counter version as well as lotions and oils that are more affordable...do you get it in/on your ears as well?

    Yes! I get some on my ears as well. I have itchy ears :( as well. This itching is driving me crazy, I did buy some over the counter cream which is helping with some itching however as soon as I sweat, it gets it going more.

    Go see a dermatologist...in the meantime you can try hydrocortisone cream.

    I am actually using a hydrocortosone cream that works wonders occasionally because I hate medications and medicated products as I am traumatized from my dad's pain killers and narcotics addiction because he was always in immense pain
  • sheebs11
    sheebs11 Posts: 25 Member
    I am a long time sufferer of eczema and I have found a couple things that help. I live in a fairly humid climate so that helps too (I dry right up when we head anywhere with low humidity). If I'm have a major flare up (hands cracking, getting patches on my wrists, insides of elbows, behind my knees etc) then I will usually do a cycle of Whole30 meal plans and it tends to clear me up. If it's more mild of a flare up on my hands I will put on a hydrocortisone cream before bed and then cover that with Vaseline (I'm a gooey mess TBH) and repeat a few nights to calm down. If I'm having a mild flare other than my hands I'll mix coconut oil with lavender and frankincense essential oils and rub that on a few mornings and nights in a row and it calms it down.

    Hopefully that helps. Eczema can be like the damn plague.
  • mistyhiss
    mistyhiss Posts: 6 Member
    Ming1951 wrote: »
    In the past year I have also developed some type of Eczema on my scalp, not all over but in several spots. Had the doctor check it and order me a script shampoo but I didn't get it as it was over $400. and with insurance and I can't afford that. So I also have some steroid drops from dermatologist which helps the itch somewhat. I also have tried tea tree oil but so far I'm still battling it. I guess I will have to go back to the dermatologist.

    Ouch, that cost is extortionate. :/ Most shampoos seem to contain parabens and sodium laureth sulphate which can irritate the scalp. Maybe look into a shampoo which is free of these. Not sure if you can get Body Shop products outside of the UK but I've been using their rainforest shampoo and conditioner for my sensitive, itchy scalp and it's beautifully gentle.
  • socialdchic
    socialdchic Posts: 170 Member
    I have it on my fingers and hands too and I got this aveeno baby eczema stuff and its been working great. It is not completely gone but its not cracked and itchy. Its super thick cream and I layer is on before bed. I also use gold bond eczema lotion anytime my hands get wet.