From the Guidelines
Patient education for eczema should prioritize explanation, discussion, and demonstration of proper skin care and medication management, as emphasized by the most recent and highest quality study 1. Eczema patient education is crucial for effective management of the condition. The key components of patient education include:
- Proper skin care: advising patients to take short, lukewarm showers or baths, using mild, fragrance-free soaps or cleansers, and applying moisturizer within 3 minutes of bathing to trap moisture.
- Trigger avoidance: identifying and avoiding known triggers such as harsh soaps, fragrances, certain fabrics, extreme temperatures, stress, and identified allergens.
- Medication management: educating patients on the proper use of topical corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone 1% for mild cases or prescription-strength options for moderate-severe cases, and the importance of adherence to treatment plans. As noted in the study 1, adequate patient education should include discussing avoidance of irritants and known triggers, stressing the importance of adherence, optimizing topical therapy, addressing topical steroid phobia, and considering structured educational interventions. The study 1 also highlights the importance of explaining and discussing the application of topical preparations, demonstrating how to apply treatments, and providing written information to reinforce the issues discussed. Furthermore, the study 1 emphasizes the need for adequate time for explanation and discussion, education regarding the application of topical preparations, and demonstration of how to apply treatments. Overall, effective patient education is essential for improving outcomes in eczema management, and healthcare providers should prioritize providing clear, concise, and personalized education to their patients 1.
From the Research
Eczema Patient Education
- Eczema is a common skin condition that requires proper management and treatment to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Topical corticosteroids are a first-line treatment for eczema, but their optimal use is still uncertain 2.
- Potent and moderate topical corticosteroids are probably more effective than mild topical corticosteroids in treating eczema, especially in moderate or severe cases 2, 3.
- Applying potent topical corticosteroids once a day probably does not decrease the number of patients achieving treatment success compared to twice daily application 2.
- Topical corticosteroids weekend (proactive) therapy is probably better than no topical corticosteroids/reactive use to prevent eczema relapse (flare-ups) 2.
- Basic skin care, including the use of emollients and moisturizers, is essential in restoring skin barrier function and reducing symptoms of eczema 5, 6.
- Avoiding triggers, maintaining acidic pH, and avoiding superinfection are also important measures in managing eczema 6.
- Patient education on proper skin care, treatment options, and lifestyle modifications can help improve disease management and quality of life 5, 6.
Treatment Options
- Topical anti-inflammatory treatments, such as topical corticosteroids, tacrolimus, and ruxolitinib, are effective in reducing symptoms of eczema 3.
- Systemic corticosteroids should be avoided in most cases, but can be used rarely for severe eczema under certain circumstances 4.
- Basic skin care, including emollients and moisturizers, should be used consistently to restore skin barrier function and reduce symptoms 5, 6.
Lifestyle Modifications
- Avoiding triggers, such as soaps, detergents, and stress, can help reduce symptoms of eczema 6.
- Maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated can also help improve skin health and reduce symptoms of eczema 6.
- Patient education on lifestyle modifications and stress management can help improve disease management and quality of life 5, 6.