Before starting to use Welby products, it is important to clear away all irritants, residual washing powder in clothing, household cleaners and sprays, many soaps and shampoos. All products containing bleaches, whiteners and enzymes are to be avoided as they can cause skin problems to become chronic, prolonging the conditions interminably.

Common Irritants

Wool and Synthetic materials and rough or poorly fitting clothing can rub the skin, trigger inflammation, and cause the itch-scratch cycle to begin. Avoid nylon and wool and use 100% cotton bedding and clothing. Cotton is more comfortable against the skin and allows the skin to ‘breathe’ to keep the skin cool.

Excessive moisture such as from saliva or milk causes frequent wetting and drying of the skin which can affect the skin barrier function.

Pests - Dust mites, fungus, and mold may irritate a child’s eczema. The environment where the child lives should be as free of these irritants as possible. Having hardwood floors, washing the bedding at high temperatures using special high-powered vacuum cleaners and allergen/dust proof mattress and pillow covers can help to better manage these microscopic creatures.

Pollen - Avoid freshly mown grass, as children with eczema are often allergic to grass pollen.

Soaps and Irritating detergeants may have a drying effect and worsen itching. Avoid using soap if possible because even the mildest soap may worsen the eczema. An option is to use a bath emollient or an emollient cleansing bar instead of soap. Good advice is to wash clothing and bedclothes using a mild soap product (avoiding bleach and fabric softeners), and make sure everything is rinsed thoroughly (i.e. twice).

Cigarette smoke - ban smoking in the home because tobacco fumes may irritate the skin.

Avoid pets - if your child has eczema try to avoid pets – contact with fur and feathers can irritate the skin. Keep your child away from household pets. Pets such as cats and dogs often aggravate eczema. They don't have to come into direct contact with the child to cause a problem, so it really is best not to have any furry pets in the house.

Perfumes and cosmetics may irritate the skin.

Solvents, or sand may also make the condition worse