Bacteria and Bleach

There are some great articles in the NY Times on eczema. Here is a link from one article along with some of the things I noted that I'd like to investigate further.

From article in NY Times, July 2008:
Author: Ingfei Chen

• Chronic eczema is a complex disorder that involves an overwrought immune system and, often, a defective gene that leaves the skin barrier leaky, dry and easily irritated.
• For one patient, Staphylococcus aureus, a lab test revealed — had accelerated a full-body eczema outbreak, could bacteria still be fueling her rashes?
• Dermatologist prescribes high-potency topical corticosteroid, antibiotic pills, and a bacteria-killing ointment called mupirocin and a Clorox bath.
• 90% if eczema sufferes carry Staph aureus on their skin
• Gentle bleach bath (half cup bleach in full bath tub) can kill skin microbes - tests shows promise according to Dr. Amy Paller of Northwestern University
• Take more baths, not less - to clean off bacteria and hydrate the skin

So Clorox, huh? Seems a little scary to stick bleach on your skin but I might try it on the patch on my hand just to see. The worst part for me is on my face, so not sure I want to go there yet.