Since several people here have already sung deserved praises, I will then start with the negatives. The book's title is a commercial come-on. Dr Nasir does not, alas, believe that one can live eczema-free. The book cannot make up its mind if it means to just address atopic eczema or other eczemas as well. As such, there are some statements that do not necessarily apply to other types of eczema, such as that food plays no role, or that eczema is part of the atopic triad. The editors were napping on the job: some statements in the glossary flatly (and wrongly) contradict the main text. A few bits of bad advice crop up, such as the use of bleach as a bath additive. Yuck! Chlorine bleach is an irritant, toxic by inhalation and absorption. When I need a healing disinfectant in my bath water, I pass up the chlorine shelves at my pool supply store and head for the hydrogen peroxide section. No stench, no toxicity.
On a more serious note, I was very disappointed to see Dr Nasir promote the idea that eczema patients often do not get bettter from the meds given us because we do not follow directions properly. I think that this "hypothesis" stems from the dermatology community's self-serving denial of the meager effectiveness of the medications they give us. This is closer to the truth, docs: We are highly motivated to get better, but the stuff you give us is expensive, often dangerous, and works poorly! We need better than that!
But don't get me wrong: the book fills an important niche. It is chockful of interesting information and useful tips. I particularly appreciated the information on daily routine care, on the various conditions that accompany eczema, and on promising treatments. Get it, read it, make notes, and read it again. Then, teach others what works. I recommend this book alongside Dr Atherton's classic Eczema in Childhood: the Facts.
