Being diagnosed with molluscum is not pleasant as it means you probably have unsightly lesions and bumps somewhere on your skin. While the condition itself doesn't typically cause itching, there can be a development of dermatitis around the breakout area which itself causes painful itching.
You may realize that molluscum can actually go away on its own; it's caused by a virus, much like warts, and this virus can clear up eventually which in turn allows the bumps to clear up. However this can be a long process, an average of 18 - 30 months, as the body needs to fight the virus that causes molluscum and this can be difficult, especially for children who have still-developing immune systems. Those with AIDS, who are undergoing chemotherapy, or who for any other reason have a weakened immune system can also see no relief for many months or sometimes years.
The usual initial recommendation from a physician is a "wait and see" approach. However, molluscum can spread unpredictably in the meantime. Treatment options in the doctor's office are often painful, such as freezing, scraping, or using a blistering agent. These procedures will often need to be repeated as new bumps appear. As practicing physicians, at Naturopathix,Inc. we understand the trauma molluscum can cause to both child and parent alike. That's why we have developed ZymaDerm: all natural, safe, and painless. ZymaDerm treats your child gently.
One thing to remember is that you don't want to irritate the area infected with the molluscum. Don't shave over the skin as this will irritate it even further. Keep it covered when in the sunlight or harsh cold so that the weather doesn't irritate the skin even more. If dermatitis develops around the molluscum try to avoid scratching as this will spread the virus to other areas of your skin and also to other people, as you may carry the virus under your fingernails.
You can also do what you can to strengthen your immune system on your own so your body can fight the molluscum. Take a multivitamin and zinc supplement. Folic acid also helps with your immune system, as do leafy green vegetables and fresh fruit.
Viruses thrive in warm, damp environments so keep the infected area of the skin dry as much as possible. Wear clothes that don't chafe the area infected with molluscum and be sure to pat the area dry immediately after a shower or workout. Avoid rubbing the area dry as this irritates the skin.
These simple tips will help you to fight the molluscum on your own and will keep your skin from being irritated as much as possible. It will also help the virus to heal as quickly as it can. Remember that your doctor or a good homeopathic remedy can also help your molluscum so don't be afraid to seek treatment if it doesn't go away as fast as you'd like.