Eczema

Eczema is a general term for many types of skin inflammation , also known as dermatitis. The most common form of eczema is atopic dermatitis. (some people use these two terms interchangeably). However, there are many different forms of eczema.

Eczema can affect people of any age, although the condition is most common in infants. Eczema will permanently resolve by age three in about half of affected infants. In others, the condition tends to recur throughout life. People with eczema often have a family history of the condition or a family history of other allergic conditions, such as asthma or hay fever. Up to 20% of children and 1-2% of adults are believed to have eczema .

Some forms of eczema can be triggered by substances that come in contact with the skin , such as soaps, cosmetics, clothing, detergents, jewellery, or sweat. Environmental allergens (substances that cause allergic reactions) may also cause outbreaks of eczema . Changes in the weather or even psychological stress for some people lead to outbreaks of eczema .

What are the symptoms of eczema?
Eczema most commonly causes dry, reddened skin that itches or burns, although the appearance of eczema varies from person to person and varies according to the specific type of eczema . Intense itching is generally the first symptom in most persons with eczema . Sometimes, eczema may lead to blisters and oozing lesions, but eczema can also result in dry and scaly skin . Repeated scratching may lead to thickened, crusty skin . While any region of the body may be affected by eczema , in children and adults, eczema typically occurs on the face, neck, and the insides of the elbows, knees, and ankles. In infants, eczema typically occurs on the forehead, cheeks, forearms, legs, scalp, and neck.

What is the treatment for eczema ?
The goals for the treatment of eczema are to prevent itching, inflammation , and worsening of the condition. Treatment of eczema may involve both lifestyle changes and the use of medications. Treatment is always based upon an individual's age, overall health status, and the type and severity of the condition. Keeping the skin  well hydrated through the application of creams (with a low water and high oil content) as well as avoiding over bathing is an important step in treatment. Lifestyle modifications to avoid triggers for the condition are also recommended.

Corticosteroid creams are sometimes prescribed to decrease the inflammatory reaction in the skin . These may be mild-, medium-, or high-potency corticosteroid creams, depending upon the severity of the symptoms. If itching is severe, oral antihistamines may be prescribed. To control itching, the sedative type antihistamine drugs are prescribed. In some cases, a short course of oral corticosteroids (such as prednisone) is prescribed to control an acute outbreak of eczema , although their long-term use is discouraged in the treatment of this non life-threatening condition because of unpleasant and potentially harmful side effects. The oral immunosuppressant drug cyclosporine has also been used to treat some cases of eczema .

Ultraviolet light therapy (phototherapy) is another treatment option for some people with eczema. Self-Care at Home Removing whatever is causing the allergic reaction is the easiest and most effective treatment. This may be as simple as changing your laundry detergent or as difficult as moving to a new climate or changing jobs. Prevent dry skin  by taking warm (not hot) showers rather than baths.

Use a mild soap or body cleanser. Dry yourself very carefully and apply moisturizing skin  lotions all over your body. Avoid lotions with fragrances or other irritating substances. Avoid wearing tight-fitting, rough, or scratchy clothing. Avoid scratching the rash. If you can't stop yourself from scratching, cover the area with a dressing. Wear gloves at night to minimize skin  damage from scratching. Anything that causes sweating can irritate the rash. Avoid strenuous exercise during a flare. If the allergy -causing agent cannot be removed or identified, the next step is to lessen the allergic inflammatory response. Apply an nonprescription steroid cream (hydrocortisone) along with anti-itching lotion (menthol/camphor, such as calamine). The cream must be applied as often as possible without skipping days until the rash is gone. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) in pill form may be taken for the itching. Caution - this medication may make you too drowsy to drive a car or operate machinery safely. Clean the area with a hypoallergenic soap every day. Apply lubricating cream or lotion after washing. Avoid physical and mental stress .

Aromatherapy Treatments:
Aromatherapy relaxation massage can help with mental and physical stress  and therefore can sometimes help the sufferer where the cause is mental anxiety or tension. Essential oils which can help the eczema sufferer are Bergamot , Chamomile Roman , Chamomile German , Cypress , Geranium , Juniper , Lavender , Melissa , Myrrh , Neroli , Palmarosa , Patchouli , Rosemary , Sandalwood , Yarrow .   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. Sandalwood  with its reputed benefits for dry and dehydrated skin  and Cypress which again is widely used in skin  care.   Juniper , Sandalwood  and Cypress all have a woody scent and as such can be used comfortably by both men and women.

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.

£5.60

Bergamot Essential Oil - Citrus Bergamia (10ml)

Bergamot is a valuable oil for tension and anxiety. It can help with conditions such as cystitis and urethritis as well as being great for skin conditions such as acne.

£6.80

Chamomile German 10% Dilute Essential Oil - Matricaria Recutica

Fantastic oil for so many purposes including skin care, inflammed tendons and swollen joints, digestive prolems especially where related to stress.

£4.25

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.

£5.00

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.

£14.50

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.

£5.20

Geranium Essential Oil - Pelargonium Graveolens (10ml)

Geranium is lovely floral oil which can help with a wide variety of skin conditions, poor circulation, cellulite and many menopausal problems as well as fluid retention and hormonal in-balance.

£8.50

Lavender Essential Oil - Lavandula Abrialis (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.

£3.30

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.

£5.90

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.

£5.90

Myrrh Essential Oil - Commiphora Myrrha (10ml)

Myrrh is good for many skin conditions including woulds, weeping sores, athletes foot and cracked skin. Useful for chest infections and can help with diarhhoea and stomach pains.

£13.00

Neroli 5% Dilute Essential Oil - Citrus Aurantium (10ml)

Neroli is antidepressant, antiseptic, antispasmodic and aphrodisiac as well as being a gentle sedative and is valuable for helping with problems of an emotional nature. It is reputed to be an aphrodisiac and helps with skin care. It can help with stomach spasms and diarrhoea.

£5.90

Palmarosa Essential Oil - Cymbopogon Martini (10ml)

Palmarosa is great in skin care and has antispetic qualities which make it valuable for acne and infection, scars and sores. Palmarosa oil is very active against bacteria responsible for intestinal infections such as Gastroenteritis.

£4.00

Patchouli Essential Oil - Pogostemon Cablin (10ml)

The main use for Patchouli is in the area of skincare and the treatment of skin disorders such as acne, cracked skin, exzema and allergies. It can also help with fluid retention and is used for depression and stress related conditions.

£6.00

Rosemary Essential Oil - Rosemarinus Officinalis (10ml)

Rosemary is believed to have a refreshing, invigorating affect on the skin and can be used for a variety of skin and hair problems. It is good for stiff and overworked muscles, Steam inhalations with Rosemary can be good for catarrh and sinusitus. Rosemary also has a strong connection with the central nervous system and can help with memory and mental clarity.

£3.50

Yarrow 10% Dilute Essential Oil - Achillea Millefolium (10ml)

All stress related conditions can benefit from the use of Yarrow but it is particularly applicable for hypertension and insomnia. Try it for circulation problems and varicose veins. It is also said to promote hair growth and help certain skin conditions.

£4.25