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What is eczema?
Eczema, or dermatitis, is a skin condition that affects all age groups. In mild forms the inflamed skin is dry, hot and itchy, whilst in more severe forms the skin can become broken, raw and bleeding. It is not contagious.
What type of eczema do I have?
There are a number of different types of eczema; determining which one applies to you is the key to treating it.
atopic eczema
who gets it - this common eczema is linked with asthma and hayfever and usually runs in familes
how to spot it - itchy, dry, red and inflamed skin. If infected may crack and weep
contact dermatitis
who gets it - something that comes into contact with the skin irritates it or causes an allergic reaction
how to spot it - dry, inflamed skin where the irritating substance has had contact, often on the hands
how to treat it - avoid contact with irritating substance
common offenders - certain metals, chemicals, toiletries, perfumes and detergents
adult seborrhoeic eczema
who gets it - characteristically affects adults between the ages of 20 and 40
how to spot it - it is usually seen on the scalp as mild dandruff, but can spread to the face, ears and chest. The skin becomes red, inflamed and starts to flake.
what causes it - the condition is believed to be caused by a yeast growth
Consult a naturopath or herbalist for an appropriate anti-fungal dietary programme; typically avoiding sugar and taking prescribed anti-fungal herbs and supplements.
varicose eczema
how to spot it - varicose eczema affects the lower legs of those in their middle to late years who suffer from varicose veins. Commonly the skin around the ankles is affected, becoming speckled, itchy and inflamed.
what causes it - poor circulation
how to treat it - prevention is preferable to cure. Make sure you get plenty of bioflavanoids in your diet (from citrus peel, peppers, blackberries and apricots) or take a supplement of bioflavanoids with vitamin C. Other useful supplements are co-enzyme Q10, essential fatty acidsand pycnogenol, which stimulates circulation.
how to spot it - appears suddenly as a few coin shaped areas of red skin, normally on the trunk or lower legs. They can become itchy and can weep fluid.
what causes it - may be triggered by an infection, bite or sting.
Can eczema be cured?
Eczema will, in most cases, clear up over time. Some sufferers will require treatment, for others it may seem to go away of their own accord or as they grow out of it. However most adult sufferers will find their skin remains sensitive and they may have a predisposition to flare ups throughout their life.
Which ingredients in cosmetics should I avoid if I am prone to eczema?
Avoid caustic detergents (foaming agents) such as sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) found in most commercial shampoos, shower gels, face washes and bubble baths.
Products containing petrochemicals (eg mineral oil, petrolatum, petroleum, propylene glycol, paraffinum liquidum) used over time can congest skin and trigger inflammation and eczema flare ups. Use skincare products and body oils made from pure plant oils instead.
All products at LoveLula.com are free from petrochemicals, SLS and artificial fragrance and colour.
Artificial colour and fragrance in products are a common irritant that trigger sensitivities. Some essential oils may also trigger a reaction. If in doubt choose fragrance free skincare products.
What natural skin care products do you recommend for eczema sufferers?
Avoid harsh cleansers, soaps and face washes and overly perfumed products. Instead look for simple natural formulations that are suitable for sensitive skin and always keep skin well moisturized.
Aloe vera gel is a well known soother, especially on red, raised rashes. Adding 1 cup of organic oats to your bath water (put oats in a muslin bag to prevent clogging up the plug hole!) will calm skin too.
Your doctor may recommend antihistamines to ease itching. Quercetin is an excellent natural antihistamine.
Are there any herbs or supplements that can help with eczema?
Research suggests that atopic eczema sufferers are often low in gamma linolenic acid (GLA), an essential fat found in evening primrose oil. Take Viridian's organic beauty oilevery day, a blend of nutrient rich organic oils including evening primrose.
Vitamins A, B, C, E, bioflavanoids, Magnesium and Zinc are also helpful supplements. Try Viridian's High 5 MultiVitamin Complexwhich contains a blend of all these nutrients.
Sufferers often report benefits from a bowel cleanse and general detox.
Which complementary therapies are most successful for treating eczema?
Homeopathy, herbalism and Chinese medicine report great success treating eczema.
Is there a link between eczema and food allergies?
No link has been conclusively proved but anecdotal evidence has shown a link in some cases. Dairy allergies are particularly indicated. Get yourself tested for allergies and see if eliminating a particular food or substance helps your skin.
It's not advisable to avoid foods unless an allergy is present though. A balanced diet with everything in moderation is always preferable. Sometimes just avoiding a substance for a short period can clear up the problem. You can then reintroduce the food back into your diet but just try eating it only every 3 days rather than overloading your system.
What lifestyle tips do you have for managing eczema naturally?
Be aware that chemicals and substances in your environment can affect your skin. Use a mild washing powder, wear natural materials next to your skin and don't let your skin come into contact with household chemicals.
Atopic eczema is often linked with asthma and hayfever so reduce exposure to dust mites, pollen and mold.
Note - It's important that any natural approaches you choose are not seen as an alternative to consulting your doctor but as a complement to an agreed medical treatment plan.
LoveLula.com is certified by the Soil Association, the UK's organic body. The Soil Association Organic Standard is a symbol of trust and a sign of our commitment to truly organic beauty. LoveLula.com also stocks a range of certified organic skin care & beauty products. License no. DJ18248.
LoveLula.com is an online natural skin care and organic skin care specialist. Our mission is to bring you quality and effective natural skin care and organic beauty products that love your skin and the planet and transform your beauty routines into rituals. That's why all our organic skincare products are free of ingredients such as parabens, artificial fragrance, sls and phthalates and they're also cruelty free.
The organic beauty products we stock include mineral make up, natural makeup and organic cosmetics from Lavera, suki, Elysambre & Nvey Eco and mineral makeup from Bare Escentuals i.d. bareMinerals, natural skin care and organic skincare products from brands including Dr Alkaitis, suki skincare, Kimia, evolve skincare, Kaeline, Akin, Madara, Antipodes, A'kin, nude skincare, Kimberly Sayer, Pai organic skin care, ila, Trilogy natural skincare, Spiezia Organics, faith in nature, Weleda, Balm Balm, Neal's Yard and Jurlique, natural hair products and organic hair care from John Masters Organics, Lavera, Akin, Giovanni and Urtekram and organic soap and organic lotions from Alquimia, ila, Dr Bronner's, Green People and Badger Balms.
