The full diagnosis is very important to facilitate removal of the cause, and to avoid future exposure. However, the patient must be treated at once. The general or local therapeutic bath is advised. The period of immersion is variable, depending upon the result. Addition of water softener helps reduce the possibility of further damage.
Amount depends upon hardness of water.
A good guide is the slippery feel of the modified water on addition of the solution. Conventional soap may further irritate the skin in the immediate phase of reaction to insult common to eczema and dermatitis. Dilute the mixture, one part to no less than four parts of water for cleansing the skin. It may be difficult to procure all of the ingredients as soon as required. The skin in the immediate phase of reaction to insult common to eczema and dermatitis may itch.