Eczema & Dermatitis
Eczema is a form of dermatitis and can take many different forms. It is often passed genetically – atopic or hereditary eczema is very common in families. Other triggers include bacteria and food allergens like dairy, gluten and nuts (keeping a food diary is a good idea to identify which foods might be causing a problem).
Eczema is sometimes associated with an unusually high level of certain bacteria on the skin. In particular, the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria is found on over 90% of eczematous skin, but only 5% of normal skin. Therefore one key step is to make sure that you keep skin clean. Use gentle cleansers, though, that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils, and avoid artificial fragrances and perfumes which are one of the most common causes of dermatitis.
Skin that suffers with eczema, typically does not produce enough fats and oils, so the protective barrier is weak. That means that regular moisturising – little and often is best – is vital to prevent further dryness which in itself can be uncomfortable and itchy. Choose a moisturiser based on soothing plant oils and herbs whose natural molecules are more easily taken up by the skin and offer nutritional value rather than the ‘dead’ petroleum, paraffin or mineral oil formulations.
We have always focussed on creating skin care for the most sensitive and allergy-prone skin, which is why we do not use common allergen tree nut oils, soy, wheat, dairy or any artificial additives in Odylique products. As an eczema family ourselves, we are aware of the distress eczema can bring.
Read more about Eczema Shampoo and our 5 Practical Tips For Eczema Prone Skin.