Dust has long been known to cause and exacerbate eczema -- so much so that eliminating dust from the home and work environment is a standard part of eczema skin care treatment protocols. However, in some environments getting rid of dust is almost impossible. What can you do to resolve the irritation?

The dust itself is not the only problem eczema sufferers have to contend with in this type of environment. Although for many years it was thought that the dust was the irritant, a recent study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology revealed that much of the problem is actually caused by dust mites - microscopic creatures that live in the dust.

According to the study, mice exposed to the dust mite enzyme experienced transepidermal water loss, indicating that the protective layer of the skin had been disrupted. According to Toshiro Takai, one of the authors of the study, this finding explains why dust mites cause dry skin and eczema. It also explains why dust would cause further irritation for those whose eczema has internal causes.

Why is shielding lotion a more effective eczema treatment than other solutions? A good shielding lotion bonds with the outer layer of the skin to form a protective layer that locks in the skin's natural moisture and keeps out irritants and allergens. Once the irritation is removed, the skin can heal itself. Thousands of doctors now recommend a shielding lotion for dry skin and eczema treatment and some people have been able to completely eliminate other treatments and medications.

If, like most of us, you find it almost impossible to get rid of all the dust in your environment, adding shielding lotion to your eczema treatment protocol will bring relief.