Dermatitis

Seborrhoea dermatitis is a skin disorder affecting the scalp, face and trunk causing scaly, flaky, itchy, red skin. It particularly affects the sebum-gland rich areas of skin . Etiology The cause of seborrhoea dermatitis remains unknown, although many factors have been implicated.

The ubiquitous yeast, Malassezia furfur (formerly known as Pityrosporum ovale), is involved, as well as genetic, environmental, hormonal, and immune-system factors. Those afflicted with seborrheic dermatitis  have an unfavourable epidemic response to the infection, with the skin becoming inflamed and flaking. Hair Loss Side effects to inflammation may include temporary hair loss.

Note that if severe outbreaks go untreated for long periods of time, permanent hair loss may result due to damaged hair follicles. Expect two to six months before hair growth may resume. Treatments Among dermatologist recommended treatments are shampoos containing coal tar, ciclopiroxolamine ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, or zinc pyrithione. For severe disease, keratolytics such as salicylic acid or coal tar preparations may be used to remove dense scale. Topical terbinafine solution (1%) has also been shown to be effective in the treatment of scalp seborrhoea, as may lotions containing alpha hydroxy acids or corticosteroids. Pimecrolimus topical lotion is also sometimes prescribed.

Chronic treatment with topical corticosteroids may lead to permanent skin changes, such as atrophy and telangiectasia. UV-A and UV-B light inhibit the growth of M. furfur, although caution should be taken to avoid sun damage. Those with seborrhoea dermatitis  might benefit from biotin supplements. Eczema is a form of dermatitis , or inflammation of the upper layers of the skin . The term " eczema " is broadly applied to a range of persistent or recurring skin rashes characterized by redness, skin edema, itching and dryness, with possible crusting, flaking, blistering, cracking, oozing, or bleeding. The diagnosis is generally based on the appearance of inflamed, itchy skin in certain sensitive areas such as face, chest and other skin crease areas.

There are many types of treatment for Dermatitis which include the use of moistening agents eg: 'emollients', corticosteroid steroid ointments, creams or lotions, anti-itch drugs, such as antihistamine, antibiotics and light therapy using ultraviolet light. Doctors will sometimes advise avoiding any scented products and over washing of the skin . Diets and nutrition can also be investigated.. Other than direct treatments of the symptoms, no cure is presently known for most types of dermatitis; even cortisone treatments and immunomodulation may often have only minor effects on what may be a complex problem. As the condition is often related to family history of allergies (and thus heredity), it is probable that gene therapy or genetic engineering might help.

Non-conventional medical approaches include traditional herbal medicine, aromatherapy and others. Lavender oil has a multitude of uses, one of which is in relation to the skin where it is reputed to be calming, soothing, and can help in the treatment of conditions such as acne and eczema . Lavender is reputed to have a generally calming effect which can benefit an eczema  sufferer especially when the cause is emotional or stress related. Chamomile Roman essential oil is one of the most helpful oils in the great majority of cases although Melissa is an alternative which suits some people better.  Juniper has been used since ancient times and has come to be considered one of the best oils for use in skin conditions. Eczema, dermatitis  and psoriasis are amongst these conditions especially if the eczema is weepy. It combines wonderfully with other oils and the addition of Sandalwood with its reputed benefits for dry and dehydrated skin and Cypress which again is widely used in skin care.

Sandalwood Essential Oil- Amyris Balsamifera (10ml)

Sandalwood is one of the best essential oils to use in the treatment of chronic bronchitis. It is a good oil to use for oily skins and acne and is often liked by teenage boys as it has a masculine scent as well as helping to sooth itches and rashes.

£4.00

Chamomile Roman 10% Dilute Essential Oil - Chamaemelum Nobile

A wonderful oil which has so many valuable properties Chamomile would be a great one to always keep in and can be used in skin care, musuclar aches and pains and digestive problems.

£4.00

Chamomile Roman Pure Essential Oil - Chamaemelum Nobile (10ml)

Chamomile is a great oil to use for nervous disorders. It is soothing and calming and can help where a person is irritable or nervous. It can also help with insomnia.

£10.25

Cypress Essential Oil - Cupressus Sempervirens (10ml)

Cypress is a great asset for any sort of skin care. It can be used for varicose veins or haemorroids, it is great for sweating and can help with the menstrual cycle.

£3.75

Lavender Essential Oil - Lavandula Officinalis (10ml)

Lavender has been used continuously for thousands of years and its popularity has only ever increased. If you could have no other essential oil in your house, then Lavender would be the prime choice: It has a wide range of uses and is a natural antibiotic, anti-depressant, sedative and de-toxifier.

£2.40

Juniper Essential Oil (10ml)

Juniper has a special affinity with the urino-genital tract and can be used to treat many associated conditions. It is also good for respiratory problems and certain skin conditions.

£4.25

Melissa Blend Essential Oil - Melissa Blend(10ml)

Melissa - "It makes the heart merry and joyful and strengthens the vital spirits" useful to regulate the menstrual cycle, for allergies, has a calming effect and is great for people suffering from shock or bereavement.

£4.50