Choosing an Air Purifier for Eczema

Anyone who suffers from eczema is familiar with the irritating and painful outbreaks that atopic dermatitis causes. While there are a variety of treatment options for eczema, a high-quality air purifier may eliminate or reduce your need for prescription medication. Treating eczema effectively depends upon the severity and specific details of each case, and some people may find that one air purifier is more effective at reducing eczema than others.

1. What is Eczema and What Causes It?

Eczema results in dry, red patches of skin. Eczema may appear in any location on the body, although it typically shows up on the hands, arms, and face. On average, about one in every 10 people suffers from eczema at some point in their life, although most cases clear up during adolescence.

Most often, eczema is caused by an allergic reaction. In the case of atopic dermatitis, particles of pollens, dust, and mites in the air may all contribute to an outbreak. People with allergic reactions to certain metals, latex, or other chemicals may experience eczema outbreaks after coming into physical contact with the offending material. Because of its varied causes, it may be difficult to trace the underlying cause of an eczema outbreak. However, eczema typically flares up at certain times of year or in certain conditions, and tracking appearance and severity of outbreaks may prove helpful in determining the cause of your eczema.

2. Helping to Treat Eczema With an Air Purifier

Some air purifiers may help to reduce the effects of eczema by lowering the pollen count or the dust levels in a room or home. When selecting an air purifier to aid in eczema treatment, choose a purifier with a HEPA filter for the best filtration. Purifiers designed to filter not only dust and pollen but also mold and other bacteria tend to be the most effective. Finally, an air purifier with a humidifier is helpful at keeping your skin moist as it filters allergens out of the air.

In almost all cases, an air purifier will not single-handedly eliminate the effects of eczema. If you suffer from atopic dermatitis, take additional measures to ensure that your house is allergen-free. Cover your bedding in hypoallergenic bed and pillow covers and wash all bedding and clothes in a mild detergent without fabric softener. Avoid skin contact with chemical cleaning solutions, makeup and cosmetics, scratchy or irritating fabrics and any known allergens, such as poison ivy.

An air purifier with a HEPA filter and the capacity to eliminate mold spores and bacteria may help immensely in controlling an eczema outbreak. However, if you have eczema or suspect that you may have eczema, consult with a physician before attempting any treatment program. With a combination of medicated skin lotions, humidifiers and a high-powered air purifier, many people who suffer from eczema are able to keep their symptoms well under control.