CONDITION: Eczema

 

OVERVIEW: Eczema is a generalized name for a number of skin conditions that have similar symptoms including atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, nummular eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and stasis dermatitis. Its name derives from the Greek word "to boil over," and it's estimated that over 1% of adults and 5% of children in the United States are affected by this condition.

 

SYMPTOMS:

• Dry and itchy skin
• Patches of red, swollen, and inflamed skin located on the elbows, knees, hands, feet, ankles, wrists, neck, and chest
• Cracked and thickened skin
• Raised bumps that are small and might have fluid seepage

 

CAUSES:

The cause of eczema is still unknown, but it's thought to stem from inherited genes, an overactive immune system, and lifestyle. Scientific research has identified a specific genetic mutation related to the skin barrier function that seems to play an important role in the development of eczema.

 

WHAT MAKES IT WORSE:

• Food allergies
• Environmental allergies
• Chemical-laden products
• Synthetic materials
• Dry skin
• Cigarette smoke
• Synthetic fragrances
• Harsh soaps and household cleaners

 

COMMON THERAPIES: The most commonly prescribed conventional medications for eczema include corticosteroid creams that can thin your skin and calcineurin inhibitors, like tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, that can affect your immune system.

 

NATURAL INGREDIENTS WE USE:

Aloe Vera: Soothes irritation

Amaranth Oil: Repairs damaged skin

Avocado Oil: Nourishes skin

Carrot Seed Oil: Provides vital phytonutrients

Honey: Has antimicrobial properties

Jojoba Oil: Provides lasting hydration

Rosemary Extract: Soothes irritation

Shea Nut Butter: Moisturizes skin

Vitamin A, Vitamin E and C: Protect skin from damage

 

LIFESTYLE GUIDE:

• Use stress reduction techniques as a mind-body approach to reduce anxiety.
• Identify and eliminate potential food allergen triggers from your diet.
• Increase essential fatty acid intake by consuming omega-3's from cold-water fish and evening primrose oil.
• Soothe your skin with our plant-based Mother of all Creams.

 

Resources

“Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema).” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 6 Mar. 2018, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/atopic-dermatitis-eczema/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353279.

“Eczema Causes & Triggers.” National Eczema Association, nationaleczema.org/eczema/causes-and-triggers-of-eczema/.

“Calm the Cycle of Eczema With a Few Natural Treatments.” Bastyr Seal, bastyr.edu/news/health-tips/2011/09/calm-cycle-eczema-few-natural-treatments.