Question: “Eczema” is a broad term which covers many different specific (but related) skin conditions. Eczema is also known as atopic dermatitis. The physical symptoms of all types of eczema tend to be dry, reddened, itchy skin, which makes the diagnosis difficult. Some types of eczema are caused by allergies, immune disorders, or excessive washing of the facial skin.  It’s helpful to track your eczema symptoms and note what causes the eczema to break out. Try keeping a daily journal in which you record foods you’ve eaten, personal skincare routines, and any environmental factors that seem to have an effect on your eczema. Visit your doctor, and describe your eczema symptoms, including how long the rash has been present, and if any specific causes make the eczema worse. Eczema runs in families and is associated with asthma, allergies, and elevated immunoglobulin in the blood. In many cases, eczema can be caused by external environmental factors. For example, seasonal allergies can trigger eczema, as can food allergies and extreme hot or cold temperatures. If you can pinpoint which of these factors may be triggering your eczema, try to avoid it as much as possible. Many of these environmental factors can only be determined through repeated experience. So, if you realize that your eczema flares up after you’ve eaten dairy products, cut them out of your diet. You can apply a moisturizing facial lotion whether or not you’ve just taken a shower. If you’re concerned that you’ll forget the lotion, try setting a timer or writing down a lotion schedule on a notepad. Apply lotion as often as possible, perhaps on an hourly (or even half-hourly) schedule. If you’re not sure which lotions are most effective, ask your doctor. Brands like Cetaphil, Eucerin, and Aveeno tend to work well. Look for lotions that contain petroleum jelly and mineral oil, and shy away from lotions with added fragrances. Skin with eczema is very dry, and your primary goal in treating the eczema should be to moisturize your skin. Soaking your face in a lukewarm shower is a great way to begin the moisturizing process. Avoid taking multiple showers per day, as this may cause your skin to dry out further. If you find the lukewarm water uncomfortable, slightly raise the temperature. Do not use hot water, though, as it will dry out your skin. Put on facial moisturizing lotion within 3 minutes after you get out of the shower. If you take a shower and don’t moisturize immediately afterward, you’ll risk drying out your skin and worsening the condition of your eczema. The skin on your face is more sensitive and delicate than the skin on the rest of your body, and can be irritated more easily. If you have facial eczema, try switching to a milder soap than you’ve been using. Many soap brands make mild or protective lines of soap. Look for a soap that says “mild” on the label next time you’re shopping for soap. Avoid soaps that include harsh, abrasive ingredients like Triclosan, propylene glycol, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), and most added fragrances. Although it can sometimes be very itchy, you should never scratch your patches of eczema. Doing so can further irritate the already-irritated skin, causing the eczema to worsen. Itching can also cause the eczema to break open and begin oozing liquid. Try putting on a moisturizing lotion if your eczema itches. If your eczema is mild, you can most likely treat it with an over-the-counter 1% hydrocortisone cream. The cream can be purchased at any pharmacy or drug store. Apply a 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm)-sized dollop to the tip of a finger, and smear the cream around on your rash. Leave the cream on until it’s completely absorbed. Mild eczema does not break open or ooze liquid. It’s also contained in size, less than roughly 2 inches (5.1 cm).
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One-sentence summary -- Diagnose the type of eczema. Avoid environmental factors that worsen your eczema. Apply a moisturizing facial lotion to your face several times a day. Take a lukewarm shower daily. Moisturize your face after taking a shower. Use a mild facial soap when you bathe. Do not scratch the eczema. Apply a hydrocortisone cream to the eczema.


A good diet is the foundation for a fit body. If you want to look like a cheerleader, work on eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.  Fruits and vegetables should be the staple of your diet. When possible, go for fresh fruits and veggies over canned or frozen varieties. You should also get in low-fat dairy products, lean meats like chicken or fish, beans, eggs, and nuts. You do not have to give up your favorite foods to eat healthy. An occasional treat or indulgence is fine, as long as it does not come at the expense of a diet that's healthy overall. If you want to go out for ice cream with friends now and then, feel free to do so. Just make sure that most of your daily calories come from fresh, healthy food. Protein is particularly important for those training for a cheerleader body. You need protein for aerobics and weight training. Make sure you get some lean meats every day, like fish and chicken. You should also strive for complex, protein-rich carbohydrates, like beans, quinoa, brown rice, and whole wheat bread. Cheerleaders usually have lean figures. You should make time for four one-hour aerobics sessions each week. Aerobic activities tend to burn the most calories. Aerobic activities include things like:  Biking Running Jogging Swimming Many sports where you run around, such as soccer, tennis, and rugby Weight training is also important if you want to look like a cheerleader. Cheerleaders engage in a lot of physical activity during their routines, so their bodies are often very toned. Incorporate some weight training into your weekly fitness regimen.  Most people see significant improvement with just one or two 30 minute weight training sessions a week. Make sure to space these sessions out, however. You should not engage in activities like weight lifting more than one day in a row. Start slow when lifting weights. As a beginner, you may only be able to lift a few pounds. That's okay. It's better to start slow than risk straining yourself. You should also warm up before you begin. Take a brisk 30 minute walk before you start training. You don't necessarily need to lift weights to weight train. Activities like push-ups, sit-ups, and Pilates allow you to use your body as a weight. If you're going to make any significant changes to your lifestyle, you should talk to a doctor first. Exercise and a balanced diet are important for your health. However, you want to make sure your dietary needs are met and that you're not overdoing exercise. Make an appointment with a doctor to talk about your diet and fitness goals.
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One-sentence summary --
Answer: Eat the right diet. Do four one hour aerobic sessions a week. Work on weight training. Talk to your doctor before making major lifestyle changes.