1. Eczema is sometimes referred to as atopic dermatitis; in which atopic means allergy and dermatitis is skin inflammation. In short, eczema is a skin inflammation caused by an allergic reaction.
2. The causes include
- Genetic factors
- Dry skin
- A problem in immunity
- Environmental irritants such as dust, cigarette smoke, certain fabrics, the chemical in shampoo and detergents, fragrance etc
Atopic Dermatitis
1. Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema. It usually starts in childhood, and often gets milder or goes away by adulthood.
2. It usually comes together with its Triad; namely, food allergy, hay fever and asthma.
3.The symptoms of AD include:
- the rash often forms in the creases of your elbows or knees
- skin in areas where the rash appears may turn lighter or darker, or get thicker
- small bumps may appear and leak fluid if you scratch them
- babies often get the rash on their scalp and cheeks
- your skin can get infected if you scratch it
Treatment?
1. Antihistamines such as diphenhydramine can control the itch.
2. Corticosteroid cream or ointment can reduce the itch. For a more severe reaction, you can take steroids like prednisone by mouth to control swelling.
3. Calcineurin inhibitors such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus reduce the immune response that causes red, itchy skin.
4. Antibiotics treat skin infections.
5. Light therapy exposes your skin to ultraviolet light to heal your rash.
6. Cool compresses applied before you rub on the corticosteroid cream can help the medicine get into your skin more easily.
Which non-steroidal emollient to use?
1.Use emollients that contain ceramide & natural moisturizing agent to strengthen the natural skin barrier.
2. Ingredients such as phenol, menthol & camphor provide soothing relief to itchy skin.
3. Best types of emollients are thick cream or ointments that contain little to no water. Lotion that contains more water is less effective.
4. Apply to the skin at least twice daily, immediately after bathing or hand-washing.
More tips
- Apply cool compresses to your skin, or take a colloidal oatmeal or baking soda bath to relieve the itch.
- Moisturize your skin daily with a rich, oil-based cream or ointment to form a protective barrier against the elements. Apply the cream right after your bath.
- After you bathe, gently blot your skin with a soft towel. Never rub.
- Avoid scratching. You could cause an infection.
- Use fragrance-free detergents, cleansers, makeup, and other skincare products.
- Lukewarm soaking baths or showers help keep skin hydrated. But, avoid hot or long (more than 10 minutes) bath as it will dry out the skin.
- Wear gloves and protective clothing whenever you handle chemicals.
- Wear loose-fitting clothes made from soft fibers, like cotton.
What supplements can help?
1.Fish oil or plant-based fatty acids
2.Probiotics supplements
1. Ceramide helps to form the skin’s barrier and helps skin retain moisture. Ceramides also help the skin protect against environmental aggressors like irritants and pollution. Without the proper ratio of ceramides, the skin’s barrier can become compromised, leading to dryness, itching and irritation.
2. Patents mixture of seven herbal extracts helps to reduce itching, burning and stinging sensation. Multiple herbal extracts have multiple functions such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. They also act as an environmental shield to protect skin from environmental irritation.
3. Sweet almond oil is rich in oleic and linoleic acid as well as contains vitamin A, B1, B2 and B6 to nourish and moisturize the skin effectively.
4. Imperata cylindrical root extract acts as long term moisturizer and is able to retain hydration up to 24 hours after application.
5. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant to neutralize free radical; that if left untreated will damage collagen and cause skin dryness, fine lines and wrinkles,
1.Sea-buckthorn is rich in multiple bioactive compounds which include oleic acid (omega-9), palmitoleic acid (omega 7), palmitic acid and linoleic acid (omega 6), linolenic acid (omega 3), carotenoids (beta carotene, lycopene & zeaxanthin), vitamin C, B vitamins, vitamin E, strong antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD), flavonoids, minerals, amino acids and others.
2. Due to its highly nutritious content, it is very effective in treating various types of skin issue for example, eczema, atopic dermatitis and irritation induced dermatitis. This is because of its high antioxidant and omega -7 content helps to ease the inflammation as well as to modulate the hyperactive immune system.
3. It is also very high in vitamin C, E and other antioxidants; which can protect skin from UV-induced damage. This will increase the softness and elasticity of the skin, slowing the aging process and decreasing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
4.Sea buckthorn oil may also help your skin heal from wounds, sunburns, frostbite and bedsores.
1. The reason many people use probiotics is that they believe taking probiotic supplements can increase normal flora in their gut. A healthy gut can promote better nutrient absorption and immunity; a stronger immunity can suppress the allergic reaction that leads to an eczema outbreak.
2. Studies have shown that a high dose of probiotics (3-50 billion CFU/d) is effective in treating eczema.
3.H-bay Shield Probiotic has 3 billion CFU in every sachet is effective against eczema reaction. It contains Bifidobacterium breve M-16V that is very effective against eczema, and children prescribed with this probiotic showed improvement after one month of consumption.
