Itchy, dry-scaly, and swelled up skin are some of the predominant signs for eczema patients. Probably you, your child or even your close friend has experienced this condition, and you know the negative effects that it brings along. Starting from lowered self-esteem, missed school, and work to reduced body activity, as well as emotional distress all interfere with one’s day to day life.
What is Eczema
It is a term that refers to a number of conditions that bring about irritation and inflammation of the skin. Infants suffer the most from this condition, with a smaller percentage of the victims being adults. The number of children suffering from this skin condition has tripled in the past two decades. Exposure to harsh environmental toxins, poor dietary practices, and overuse of medicines such as antibiotics and steroids are some of the factors leading to the rise in this skin problem.
Are you aware that skin is the largest part of the human body stretching to about 20 square feet? Having it mind that the skin covers other different parts, the itching and swelling are therefore likely to occur in various forms and in distinct body parts. This variation brings about different types of this condition.
Types of Eczema
The most dominant ones are;
Atopic dermatitis- When one has an itchy and sensitive skin, you will hear them say they have atopic dermatitis. However, despite this terms being used to refer to the general skin condition, it a problem on its own that is severe and lasts longer.
Contact dermatitis- Happens to almost everyone at some point in their lifetime. It results from the skin coming into contact with an irritant, for example, an insect bite.
Seborrheic dermatitis- Affects body parts that have oil glands. When it affects the scalp, it is called dandruff. Yes, dandruff is a result of the scalp’s skin being sensitive.
Signs and Symptoms
This skin condition presents itself in several signs and symptoms such as:
• Itchy rash on the face, arms, neck and other body parts
• Dry and scaly skin
• Swells on the skin
• Patches on the skin
This skin problem is self-diagnosable by just observing the skin, and it’s not contagious.
How to Treat it Naturally
There is no proven permanent treatment for this condition. Doctors recommend ointments and creams to reduce inflammations. It does not go away completely but can only be maintained for some time before it resurfaces again.
Having it in mind that there is no permanent cure for this condition, the alternative is to manage it naturally by identifying the irritants and keeping away from them.
Moisturise Regularly
Dry and sensitive skin is prone to itching and flaring up. To reduce stress on your skin, ensure that you are always hydrated. Use a heavy moisturiser that is free of dyes and perfumes. The moisturizer prevents your skin from drying and also acts as a cover preventing your skin from getting into contact with irritants. In extreme cases, you may opt for a natural moisturiser such as aloe vera gel.
Go for a Gentle Bodywash/Soap
A body wash or soap containing perfumes irritates sensitive skin. Ensure that you go for one that is gentle and perfume-free. There are also some medically tested soaps that your dermatologist or general doctor may recommend. You should also be on the lookout for detergents and fabric softeners that have strong perfumes which may irritate your skin. Additionally, ensure that the beauty products you use for your skincare are gentle on your dry and sensitive skin.
Avoid Hot Baths
Hot baths bring about a relaxing feeling to the body, but for people with sensitive skin, it is an irritant. Instead of getting a hot or cold bath, go for a warm one to avoid irritating your skin. After the bath, pat yourself dry with a try instead of rubbing your skin dry. The warm bath should be followed by applying a gentle moisturiser or body oil. If you are torn about which products to use on your skin, you can get organic skincare products like raw shea and cocoa butter. Another option for sensitive skin is the cruelty free products that have been specifically made for vegans.
Do not Scratch Your Skin
More often than not, the urge to scratch comes calling in a way that you cannot resist. But before you fall for it, remember that scratching dry skin causes it more harm than you can imagine. In case the urge persists, you may get rid of it using an anti-scratch ointment or spray. Remember that the health of your skin matters and you should reduce instances of scratching to avoid flaring up of your skin.
Skin Friendly Clothing
Your sweat is a great irritant to your sensitive skin. You should, therefore, put on some skin-friendly clothes that will reduce instances of sweating and sweat build up like cotton and linen which feel gentle on the skin. Do not worry about not achieving your fashion goals by wearing these skin-friendly outfits, you can still twist them to match your fashion needs and still take care of your sensitive skin.
Dietary Changes
Some foods cause inflammation and itching of the skin, they are irritants while others are known to reduce the inflammation and swelling. You may then decide to do some adjustments in your diet, for example, most animal products like meat, milk, and eggs which contain high protein levels are known to cause inflammation. You may avoid these foods by adopting a vegan diet. You can also become a vegetarian and consume lots of fruits, lentils, beans, vegetables, and leafy greens to mention a few with fewer animal products.
Power of Alkalinity
If you feel that your skin is stressed (sond skin) you can opt for an alkaline skincare product. There are numerous alkaline creams and oils in the market meant for sond skin to help balance the skin’s PH levels. Consult with your doctor before using any of the sond products.
When this skin condition fades away it leaves behind some scars on the affected parts. If you are wondering how to get rid of eczema scars naturally, worry no more, we have a solution to this. You can adopt the use of natural oils such as shea butter, cocoa butter, castor oil, blue Cyprus oil as well as snail therapy among others.
If your condition does not improve even after adopting the above tips, then you should consult your dermatologist or a general doctor who will guide you on the way forward.
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