Friday, April 15, 2005
Preventing Dermatitis
Preventing contact dermatitis means avoiding coming into contact with those substances, such as poison ivy or harsh soaps, that may cause it. Avoiding dry skin may be one factor in helping you prevent future bouts of Dermatitis.
These tips can help you minimize the drying effects of bathing on your skin:
1) Bathe less frequently. Two or three times a week is often enough for most people. Limit yourself to 15 minutes, and use warm, rather than hot, water.
2) Use only certain soaps. Choose super fatted, non sudsing soaps such as Dove, Basis or Ivory that clean without removing natural oils. Soap substitutes in bar, gel and liquid forms are less drying than deodorant and antibacterial soaps. Use soap only on your face, underarms, genital areas, hands and feet. Use clear water elsewhere.
3) Dry yourself carefully. Brush your skin rapidly with the palms of your hands, or gently pat your skin dry with a towel after bathing.
4) Moisturize your skin. Seal in moisture, while your skin is still damp, with an oil or cream. Pay special attention to your legs, arms, back and the sides of your body. If your skin is already dry, consider using a lubricating cream such as Vanicream, Eucerin or Sorbeline.
These tips can help you minimize the drying effects of bathing on your skin:
1) Bathe less frequently. Two or three times a week is often enough for most people. Limit yourself to 15 minutes, and use warm, rather than hot, water.
2) Use only certain soaps. Choose super fatted, non sudsing soaps such as Dove, Basis or Ivory that clean without removing natural oils. Soap substitutes in bar, gel and liquid forms are less drying than deodorant and antibacterial soaps. Use soap only on your face, underarms, genital areas, hands and feet. Use clear water elsewhere.
3) Dry yourself carefully. Brush your skin rapidly with the palms of your hands, or gently pat your skin dry with a towel after bathing.
4) Moisturize your skin. Seal in moisture, while your skin is still damp, with an oil or cream. Pay special attention to your legs, arms, back and the sides of your body. If your skin is already dry, consider using a lubricating cream such as Vanicream, Eucerin or Sorbeline.
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