Gentle Skin Care Products
Many over-the-counter products contain preservatives and other chemicals which can cause a skin allergy or irritate the skin. Always use “fragrance-free” products.
Soap
Dove Sensitive Bar
Vanicream Bar
CeraVe Hydrating Bar
Aveeno Moisturizing Bar
Moisturizer
Plain Vaseline ointment
Vanicream Moisturizing Cream
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
Laundry Detergent
ALL Free & Clear
Tide Free & Gentle
Bathing/Grooming
Keep showers & baths brief (10 minutes or less). Use lukewarm, not hot, water.
If possible, use soap only in areas that need it such as the armpits, groin and feet.
Use hands to apply soap. Do NOT use washcloths, loofahs or scrubs.
Do NOT use bubble baths, colognes or perfumes.
Keep fingernails cut short and smooth. Resist the urge to scratch your skin.
Moisturizing
This is the most important part of your skin care to repair the skin’s damaged protective coating and to hydrate the skin.
Choosing a moisturizer
Ointments (like Vaseline®) are the most moisturizing. Thick creams (thick, white, packaged in a jar) are a good alternative. Lotions (thinner, white, packaged in a pump) should be avoided.
Use a cream during the day and an ointment before bedtime if you find ointment too greasy for daytime use.
Timing is important!
Immediately after bathing, apply a thick layer of moisturizer while your skin is still damp to “lock in” the moisture.
Always moisturize twice a day, even if you don’t bathe.
If you are prescribed topical steroids, remember to apply “medicine first, moisturizer last”.
Clothing/Laundry
Wear breathable fabric such as cotton. Avoid wool and spandex clothing.
Do NOT use fabric softener and drier sheets.
Double rinse clothes after washing, if possible.
Avoiding Over-The-Counter Self Treatments
Avoid over-the-counter treatments such as neosporin, topical Benadryl, rubbing alcohol, aloe and anti-itch creams (unless otherwise recommended by your dermatologist)
