With talk of the Corona Virus all over the news and the pressing topic at the forefront of everyone’s minds, it’s difficult to escape the advice about recurrent hand washing to help stop the spread. But what about those of us with eczema on our hands? This blog outlines how to protect yourself against the Corona Virus when you have eczema and how to avoid upsetting already dry and irritated skin.

Eczema and soap

Eczema is a chronic condition that affects the skins natural barrier. Skin which is affected by eczema is dry, itchy, irritated and often cracked. Washing skin affected by eczema regularly with water and regular soap can strip the skins natural oils making the skin even drier.

Protecting yourself against the Corona Virus when you have eczema

According to the NHS guidelines, washing hands with soap for 20 seconds is one of the best ways to stop the spread of infection. Traditional soaps and handwashes often contain Sodium Laureth Sulphate (SLS) which is used in soaps to help them foam but to the detriment of our skin. It dries the skin further.

They are also often full of artificial perfumes which can irritate sensitive and eczema-prone skin.

I’ve found a soap substitute that is free of SLS and perfumes that is gentle on the skin but which is an antimicrobial, which means that it kills bacteria…. Dermol 500 wash.

Dermol wash for sensitive skin

Dermol Wash is…

A  sensitive and gentle hand wash suitable for those with dry skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. It can be used a soap substitute to prevent skin from drying when washing your hands. It contains antimicrobials to reduce inflammation and rid the skin of toxins which can lead to itchy skin. The added emollients help to restore moisture balance in the skin by rehydrating.

It’s really gentle and doesn’t dry the skin! I’ve been using it myself and on my eldest son as he’s got really dry eczema on his hands.

It can be hard to use when out and about as it requires water so I have been taking hand sanitiser to use only when I can’t access a sink and water.

Hand Sanitizers

Hand sanitizers are extremely effective at getting rid of germs when you are out and about. That said please be careful which ones you use if you are an eczema sufferer! If you can get hold of any and get to choose, try to opt for the fragrance-free ones to avoid any additional skin irritation.

Replenishing the lost moisture

Once I’ve washed my hands I’ve been applying my favourite moisturiser, one I swear by and couldn’t live without… The Avene Xeracalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Cream.

(I’ve blogged about this product before – read it here : Top 5 moisturisers for extremely dry irritated and allergy prone skin)

It’s a moisturiser specially formulated for dry, rough and itchy skin. It’s a rich formula which comes in a balm which moisturises whilst also calming the skin! Perfect for using post hand wash.Skin Salvation* by Balmonds

This product is a new find for me and I absolutely love it. I was kindly sent a mini sample pot by Balmonds* when I donated to the Go fund me pot for the Topical Steroid Withdrawal documentary being filmed with Louise King – an absolute warrior researching the condition that affects so many, including me (Check out my skin updates here.)

The Skin Salvation* is a rich oil-based balm made from beeswax that locks in moisture and acts a great barrier protecting the skin. It’s 100% natural so not packed full of synthetic and artificial chemicals.

It’s gentle enough to be used by everyone, (even babies from 6 weeks old.)

Once my sample pot was finished, I didn’t hesitate to order two more pots…One for home and one for my handbag! This is now part of my daily skin care routine and is perfect for using post-handwash to ensure the skin stays hydrated.  With all the additional handwashing that is required at the moment due to virus prevention those of us with eczema need all the extra moisturisation we can get – and this does just that!!

Finally – Advice on helping stop the spread of  Covid-19

To help us all stay safe, healthy and free of the virus, we should all try to follow these steps outlined by the Government and NHS … (correct at time of publishing)

• wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds
• always wash your hands when you get home or into work
• use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available
• cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze
• put used tissues in the bin immediately and wash your hands afterwards
• avoid close contact with people who have symptoms of coronavirus
• only travel on public transport if you need to
• work from home, if you can
• avoid social activities, such as going to pubs, restaurants, theatres and cinemas
• avoid events with large groups of people
• use phone, online services, or apps to contact your GP surgery or other NHS services

Hopefully, this blog has helped you find out how to protect yourself against the Corona Virus when you have eczema.

Stay safe! XXX

You may also like:

https://nonscents.wpengine.com/allergy-life/skin-care/collagen-vitamin-drinks-good-for-your-skin/

https://nonscents.wpengine.com/allergy-life/top-5-ways-to-remedy-dry-skin-in-winter/

* Some items marked with * are affiliate links. Please rest assured that I do use these products and would never recommend something that I haven’t used or loved.

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