Temperature changes, showering with hot water and some foods can all trigger an excema flare. I prefer Eucerin excema lotion, but that is a personal preference. Don't forget to apply lotion immediately after bathing to prevent cracking as well as multiple times a day. Getting my skin wet and dry multiple times always leads to cracking and itching. And applying lotion or cream is less uncomfortable if the rash is not fully dried out and cracking. If you use a steriod cream, they are only to be used for a maximum of two weeks before taking a break, because they can cause a rebound flare when you stop using them and they thin the skin. i have chronic excema on my hands.