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Baths

NaPCA 

Skin will absorb water for the first 10 minutes; then, after skin is immersed in water for longer than that, the primary humectant in human skin (NaPCA) migrates into the bath water.  This is why the skin feels tight after getting out of the bath.  The bath water, if alkaline, will also dry the skin.

If your skin is very dry, soak for 10 minutes in a nice warm bath twice a day and follow with mineral oil. If you add mineral oil to the bath, it will be extremely slippery (watch out for children slipping under the water in the bath and adults slipping when showering if you add it to the bath). I think it's better just to use it full strength when you get out of the bath.

Hi, Christina –
I want to thank you for all your time and wisdom/expertise on Friday!
I have been doing the 10 min bath followed by mineral oil – and yes, my skin drinks it in and has improved over the weekend. I will send some photo updates later, but wanted to send you a quick note to let you know that I am ever grateful!!! Will keep in touch w/ updates and/or questions.
All my best, and thank you, thank you, thank you!
Chih-Lan

Health Dept. Recommendations  

Connecticut State Health Officials recommend a lukewarm shower once every 4 days for the general public.  They realize that taking too many baths and showers damages the skin.  My pediatrician also recommends the same for all children.   Preservation of natural oils is key in eczema management.   This single aspect of care can go far in helping people with eczema.

Soap Residue 

Many pediatricians say we do not need to use any cleansers on our children's skin other than water.   Water is a cleanser.   Huggies Natural Care Unscented Alcohol-Free Baby Wipes (lanolin-free) can be used in between shower days to cleanse the bottom and under the arms, but I'm wonder if some skin is reacting to it.  Try using yogurt instead and rinse it off.  The Acid Mantle Web Page describes why people with eczema should not use regular soap.  

Staph Bacterial and Fungal Infections 

See why bleach baths can help clear up eczema; and, yes, you can close your eyes and go underwater and it's safe for adults, children and babies. No long-term side effects.and note that staph doesn't become resistant to bleach like it does to antibiotics.

• What is a bleach bath? Can it treat chronic eczema symptoms? - Mayo Clinic
• Bleach baths clear rash and banish flare-ups of skin disease - Northwestern University
• Bleach Baths May Help Kids With Eczema - WebMD
  
• Study: Baths with Bleach Help Kids' Eczema - Time
• Surprising New Treatment For Childhood Eczema - Medical News Today
• Regimens: Bleach in Bath Can Ease Child’s Eczema - New York Times
• Bath in diluted bleach relieves kids' eczema - USA Today
  
• Hard to Control Eczema - About.Com
• Diluted Bleach Baths Ease Kids' Eczema - Discovery Health

General application: pour 1/2 cup of household bleach in the bath and fill.  Soak for 10 minutes twice weekly. Rinse off after the bath.

Please also refer to the Bacteria and Staph web pages.