Eczema FAQs

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 how to treat it - use SLS free shampoosand skin creams or gels that contain ingredients with anti-fungal properties such as neem, tea tree, manuka, calendula,myrrh, eucalyptus and witch hazel. Try Green People's Rosemary Shampoo  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. Apply Harley Street Cosmetics Witch Hazel Gelto soothe and strengthen and tone veins. Exercise regularly and avoid standing for long periods of time. If skin becomes dry and flaky apply Organic Calendula Ointment or Organic Chickweed Ointmentif itchy.

discoid eczema who gets it - usually found in adults 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.

Eczema kind ingredients include myrrh, calendula, chamomile, almond oil, witch hazel, aloe vera, jojoba and evening primrose oil.

Check out Lula's organic skin care recommendations for eczema prone skin here >>>

What bodycare products do you recommend for eczema sufferers?

Keep skin well moisturised with plant oil based body butters and lotions.

Don't use products containing harsh cleansing ingredients, opt instead for mild organic soaps and SLS free shower gels.

Avoid bubble bath, instead add plant oil based oils to bath water to heal and nourish skin.

Don't exfoliate inflamed skin.

What can I use to ease itchy eczema?

Viridian's 100% organic chickweed ointmentis excellent for easing itchiness. It also contains soothing marshmallow and calendula extracts. Other healing ingredients to look out for include chamomile and St John's Wort.

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.

To cleanse the bowel use a fibre supplement such as Viridian's Complete Fibre complex. Cleansing herbs include burdock, nettle and cleavers.


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.

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