All Things Dermatitis!
Dermatitis is commonly caused epidermal changes in our skin, dermatitis is an inflammatory condition and is often regarded as ‘eczema’. Dermatitis can occur anywhere on the body, however the condition is likely to be found in within crevices such as behind the knees or the inner arm.
pruritus ( itching), bumps, redness, and drying of the skin often present with dermatitis.
Dermatitis can also be diagnosed as acute or chronic, and in some cases people may suffer from both.
Acute is described as rapid and evolving rash present in skin
Where as Chronic can be long lasting, thickened blisters due to it’s constant irritation.
Approximately 1 in every 5 people will suffer from dermatitis at some point in their lives, this will range from various types and severities
The main types of dermatitis include:
Contact (irritant) dermatitis: often provoked by excessive exposure to water, chemicals, or harsh soaps like detergents or bodily fluids
Atopic dermatitis: often seen in children, associated with asthma and within the family
Dermatitis flare ups can also present after exposure to allergies- such as latex or dye, trauma to the skin, swelling and even stress levels can also result in a flare up.
What we know is, that dermatitis is a highly common condition that can be managed with the right treatment that suits your unique case.
Product suggestions to relieve itching, to treat highly irritated/ dry skin include:
1) Avoid using products with high contents of fragrances and emulsifiers. These are often used in many skin care products, and can cause a ‘wash out effect’ within the skin and disrupts our skins barrier. Trans epidermal water loss, also known as ‘TEWL’, is how this process is described. It is when our skin barrier becomes compromised, resulting in impaired enzyme activity therefore creating dehydration in the skin.
2) Introduce emollients, humectants and occlusives into the skin. These essentially help us lock in moisture, repair the lipid barrier and act as a production mechanism of the skins surface.
3) Consume enough Omega 3 and 6 in your diet to support your skin from the inside as well. Essential fatty acids assist in fortifying cell membranes, protect us from harmful free radicals, give the skin a smooth and healthy glow!
Some foods packed with these beauties are:
• Flaxseeds, Chia seeds
• Spinach
• Avocado
• Salmon, Tuna, Macroal
• Brocoli, Kale
Because our body does not naturally produce Omega 3 it is up to us to consume it, sometimes with our busy schedules this is hard to achieve, therefore supplements are suggested!
4) Implementing an essential fatty acid supplement is great to integrate more fats into the body, which is going to help with hydration. Our ‘Complexion Perfection’ Capsules are a great source, they contain Evening Primrose oil which contains a natural source of ‘Gamma-Linolenic acid’ (GLA). This fatty substance is exceptional for those suffering from dermatitis concerns as it can relieve dryness and itch.
5) Oils, Oils, Oils !
Our latest addition is well worth the hype. The bare roots ’Omega Oil’. It contains chia seed (high source of omega 3). Grape seed, which a contains omega 6 and is wonderful for anti ageing. It also includes oil regulating antioxidants, such as vitamin E, hemp seed oil and olive oil.