Whesterners have also used herbs for centuries to heal and cleanse the body. Many herbalists and homeopathic doctors believe that herbs can help cleanse toxins from our systems, strengthening our bodies and allowing us to head off a case of dermatitis.
Herbs are thought to be effective through several different healing pathways. For example, burdock and red clover are liver tonics, which when taken orally can help the liver to filter toxins from the blood. When the liver is filtering effectively the skin is healthier. Calendula flowers, licorice root, and ginkgo all have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. They can be applied topically in lotion, oil or ointment form to the affected area to reduce itching and inflammation. The gel from Aloe vera plants, the juice of plantain leaves (Plantago officinalis) or a poultice of the leaves themselves can also be applied topically to the affected areas to help soothe skin irritations associated with dermatitis.
Other natural herbal treatments can be prepared to help relieve the itching associated with dermatitis. Recipes for topical pastes may include:
Green clay and goldenseal root in equal parts
Equal parts salt, water, clay, and peppermint oil
Calamine lotion
Coal tar lotions, shampoos, bath oils
To help soothe irritated skin you can steep a chamomile tea bag in hot water for several minutes, allow it to cool slightly, then place it on the irritated skin for a couple of minutes. This may provide some relief to the area and can be repeated as necessary.
Topical evening primrose oil (EPO) is another herbal extract found helpful by some for dermatitis conditions. Studies have not fully established its efficacy, however, with disappointing results in some and encouraging results in others. Among other variables, it is quite possible that the method in which EPO is applied greatly affects outcome. In a study done in Germany, the authors found that an emulsion of EPO in water worked best to speed healing of the skin layers.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Irritant contact dermatitis.
Our diets don't always provided all the necessary supplementation our bodies require to be effective in fighting off infections. Certain supplements have been found safe and helpful for improving dermatitis.
The vitamin B group as a whole is responsible for assisting in the metabolism of proteins and fats in our food. It also plays a vital role in countering stress and overall support of a healthy nervous system. A compromise in any one of these areas can trigger dermatitis. Taking a high-quality supplement containing the full vitamin B-complex, by supporting these everyday functions, may help prevent dermatitis attacks.
Those that suffer from dermatitis have also been shown to have lower levels of the particular B vitamin known as folic acid, or vitamin B9. Increasing folic acid intake may help to improve symptoms. B9 can be taken in supplement form but is also found in abundance in legumes such as lentils; dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach, parsley, turnip and mustard greens; broccoli, beets, asparagus, and romaine lettuce; and calf's liver.
Vitamin E and selenium are antioxidant nutrients that support metabolic processes and healthy skin. They delay the process of oxidation of fatty acids, which play a key role in healthy skin. Vitamin E can be found in raw nuts and seeds, virgin vegetable oils, and soybeans. Selenium can be found in onions, cabbage, broccoli, celery, and whole grains. Both can be taken orally through supplementation.
A lack of zinc has been associated with dry skin and lack of circulation, both of which can play a role in worsening dermatitis. Brewer's yeast, pumpkin seeds, and whole grains are foods rich in zinc. It is also available in supplemental form.
Some dermatologists and nutritional experts have suggested that balancing the ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids in the diet is key in treating dermatitis. Studies have been conducted on the effect of supplementing with plant extracts such as evening primrose oil (EPO) and borage oil. These particular oils are high in the essential fatty acid known as gamma linolenic acid (GLA). Although there was a very plausible mechanism to explain why supplementation with this essential fatty acid might help resolve atopic dermatitis, and numerous studies have been conducted, the results have become muddled in publication. Ultimately, it appears neither borage oil nor evening primrose oil on their own are fully effective, although some individuals may certainly find them helpful.
The vitamin B group as a whole is responsible for assisting in the metabolism of proteins and fats in our food. It also plays a vital role in countering stress and overall support of a healthy nervous system. A compromise in any one of these areas can trigger dermatitis. Taking a high-quality supplement containing the full vitamin B-complex, by supporting these everyday functions, may help prevent dermatitis attacks.
Those that suffer from dermatitis have also been shown to have lower levels of the particular B vitamin known as folic acid, or vitamin B9. Increasing folic acid intake may help to improve symptoms. B9 can be taken in supplement form but is also found in abundance in legumes such as lentils; dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach, parsley, turnip and mustard greens; broccoli, beets, asparagus, and romaine lettuce; and calf's liver.
Vitamin E and selenium are antioxidant nutrients that support metabolic processes and healthy skin. They delay the process of oxidation of fatty acids, which play a key role in healthy skin. Vitamin E can be found in raw nuts and seeds, virgin vegetable oils, and soybeans. Selenium can be found in onions, cabbage, broccoli, celery, and whole grains. Both can be taken orally through supplementation.
A lack of zinc has been associated with dry skin and lack of circulation, both of which can play a role in worsening dermatitis. Brewer's yeast, pumpkin seeds, and whole grains are foods rich in zinc. It is also available in supplemental form.
Some dermatologists and nutritional experts have suggested that balancing the ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids in the diet is key in treating dermatitis. Studies have been conducted on the effect of supplementing with plant extracts such as evening primrose oil (EPO) and borage oil. These particular oils are high in the essential fatty acid known as gamma linolenic acid (GLA). Although there was a very plausible mechanism to explain why supplementation with this essential fatty acid might help resolve atopic dermatitis, and numerous studies have been conducted, the results have become muddled in publication. Ultimately, it appears neither borage oil nor evening primrose oil on their own are fully effective, although some individuals may certainly find them helpful.
Treatment of dermatitis.
The best treatment for dermatitis is to first identify the type you are suffering from. Each type is unique to itself and therefore its treatment may also be. However, even if your type is unknown there are some general lifestyle changes you can make and skin care guidelines you can follow that may improve your condition.
Keep your skin moisturized. Dry skin leads to cracking, and when your skin is cracked it loses its ability to act as a protective barrier, even against dermatitis.
Over-the-counter topical antihistamines can greatly reduce the itching associated with dermatitis. When the itching stops the inflammation is reduced, and the symptoms associated with the dermatitis will subside.
Identify and avoid contact with anything that can irritate and dry the skin leading to dermatitis conditions.
Treat other rashes, e.g., fungal infections, even though they may seem unrelated to the dermatitis.
Limit scratching and keep fingernails short to avoid skin abrasions from scratching.
You can try using a cold compress to ease the itch and reduce the inflammation.
Avoid activities that cause sweating and overheating, as they can trigger the start of the scratching cycle.
Wear loose-fitting cotton clothing, as it tends to be more comfortable for the skin.
Use fragrance-free detergents, and double-rinse clothing to remove any residual detergent.
Reduce stress, as it is thought to be a common cause for dermatitis flare-ups.
Keep your skin moisturized. Dry skin leads to cracking, and when your skin is cracked it loses its ability to act as a protective barrier, even against dermatitis.
Over-the-counter topical antihistamines can greatly reduce the itching associated with dermatitis. When the itching stops the inflammation is reduced, and the symptoms associated with the dermatitis will subside.
Identify and avoid contact with anything that can irritate and dry the skin leading to dermatitis conditions.
Treat other rashes, e.g., fungal infections, even though they may seem unrelated to the dermatitis.
Limit scratching and keep fingernails short to avoid skin abrasions from scratching.
You can try using a cold compress to ease the itch and reduce the inflammation.
Avoid activities that cause sweating and overheating, as they can trigger the start of the scratching cycle.
Wear loose-fitting cotton clothing, as it tends to be more comfortable for the skin.
Use fragrance-free detergents, and double-rinse clothing to remove any residual detergent.
Reduce stress, as it is thought to be a common cause for dermatitis flare-ups.
Treatment options for skin dermatitis .
For cases of seborrheic dermatitis on other parts of the body, Skin-Plaque Solution™ Spray with 0.25% pyrithione zinc is an excellent choice. We also encourage dietary changes, a good detoxification program and an elimination diet.
Topical creams containing steroids can be prescribed by your doctor for intermittent use. Steroid creams are typically applied two or more times daily until the condition clears, then tapered off. We recommend trying other methods beforehand as steroids can cause serious long-term side effects. Women with SD on the face respond well to the high zinc component offered by many brands of "mineral makeup" currently available.
Topical creams containing steroids can be prescribed by your doctor for intermittent use. Steroid creams are typically applied two or more times daily until the condition clears, then tapered off. We recommend trying other methods beforehand as steroids can cause serious long-term side effects. Women with SD on the face respond well to the high zinc component offered by many brands of "mineral makeup" currently available.
Treatment options for scalp dermatitis.
If seborrhea is located on the scalp alone, a high-quality dandruff shampoo containing zinc or selenium will do the trick. Super strong shampoos and conditioners usually cannot be found in retail stores. Other coal tar or tea tree oil shampoos are available, but are often very harsh on the hair. Try our Skin-Plaque Solution™ Shampoo and Conditioner package. This is no ordinary dandruff shampoo and conditioner! Skin-Plaque Solution™ Advanced Salicylic Acid Therapy Shampoo is an aggressive and effective treatment for severe dandruff, as well as the itching and flaking associated with scalp psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis - yet it is gentle enough for daily use!
Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) .
Is a very common, intermittent skin condition characterized most often by itchy flaky scales on the scalp. Red flaking skin may also be found on the face or behind the ears. Often referred to as cradle cap when affecting infants, many adults - especially those between the ages of 30 and 60 - experience seborrhea or SD as well. If you are an adult who suffers from seborrheic dermatitis, irritation of the scalp or skin, know that you are not alone. Here at DermaHarmony, we want to help you gain a better understanding of SD so you can choose the treatment methods that are right for you!
Seborrhea in adults may include red flaking skin of the eyelids, eyebrows, lips, nasolabial creases, and the skin of the body trunk over the sternum. Red skin on either side of the nose and the middle of the forehead may also arise. Flakes and scales in the afflicted areas can be difficult to wash away, and infection or bleeding may occur after excessive scratching. Sometimes the scalp feels especially crusty while waiting for a flare-up to clear. Sufferers often find this condition particularly embarrassing.
Given that many skin conditions have similar symptoms, a diagnosis from a dermatologist is recommended. The exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis is still unknown, though it often runs in families. Fatigue, stress, weather, oily skin, acne, obesity, or the use of lotions that contain alcohol may all increase the risk of outbreaks. A higher incidence of SD is seen in patients with HIV, Parkinson's disease, and neurological conditions such as head trauma and stroke. Flare-ups may also occur from extended periods of bed rest causing a build-up of oiliness. Some research indicates that SD may be linked to the yeast-like fungus Malassezia, which is associated with a number of other skin conditions, including dandruff.
In infants, the fine loose scales of cradle cap usually clear up within the first year. The typical treatment for babies is hair washing followed by baby oil massaged into the scalp, then lightly combing out the scales. There is little evidence that oiling and massaging actually helps the cradle cap. The best course of action is usually to allow the baby to outgrow the condition.
Healing dermatitis - a natural approach
There are many options for treating SD. It may be possible to prevent SD through nutritional changes. You may also want to try topical treatments to facilitate faster healing.
Some researchers believe that poor nutrition is an important factor contributing to SD, along with many other skin conditions, but have yet to establish conclusive evidence. Research shows that a number of people with seborrhea have insufficient levels of vitamin B in their diets. Many practitioners recommend avoiding alcohol as well as oily foods, which may have a negative influence on SD. While avoiding these foods is a good start, so much more can be done to promote good health and luminous skin.
While it is theoretically possible to obtain proper nutritional needs from foods, study after study shows that North Americans don't even come close to meeting their daily nutritional intake of essential nutrients. We consume too many calories from fats, proteins and carbohydrates. Could this be why Americans are more sickly than Europeans? Here at DermaHarmony we promote the healing of the digestive tract, good nutrition, and supplement use for supporting ideal skin health and reducing inflammation in the body. Painless inflammation is the body's normal response to injury or trauma. In some conditions, the inflammatory process can be triggered without apparent injury. Since dermatitis is basically an inflammation of the upper layers of the skin, natural methods of reducing inflammation are thought to be helpful.
Seborrhea in adults may include red flaking skin of the eyelids, eyebrows, lips, nasolabial creases, and the skin of the body trunk over the sternum. Red skin on either side of the nose and the middle of the forehead may also arise. Flakes and scales in the afflicted areas can be difficult to wash away, and infection or bleeding may occur after excessive scratching. Sometimes the scalp feels especially crusty while waiting for a flare-up to clear. Sufferers often find this condition particularly embarrassing.
Given that many skin conditions have similar symptoms, a diagnosis from a dermatologist is recommended. The exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis is still unknown, though it often runs in families. Fatigue, stress, weather, oily skin, acne, obesity, or the use of lotions that contain alcohol may all increase the risk of outbreaks. A higher incidence of SD is seen in patients with HIV, Parkinson's disease, and neurological conditions such as head trauma and stroke. Flare-ups may also occur from extended periods of bed rest causing a build-up of oiliness. Some research indicates that SD may be linked to the yeast-like fungus Malassezia, which is associated with a number of other skin conditions, including dandruff.
In infants, the fine loose scales of cradle cap usually clear up within the first year. The typical treatment for babies is hair washing followed by baby oil massaged into the scalp, then lightly combing out the scales. There is little evidence that oiling and massaging actually helps the cradle cap. The best course of action is usually to allow the baby to outgrow the condition.
Healing dermatitis - a natural approach
There are many options for treating SD. It may be possible to prevent SD through nutritional changes. You may also want to try topical treatments to facilitate faster healing.
Some researchers believe that poor nutrition is an important factor contributing to SD, along with many other skin conditions, but have yet to establish conclusive evidence. Research shows that a number of people with seborrhea have insufficient levels of vitamin B in their diets. Many practitioners recommend avoiding alcohol as well as oily foods, which may have a negative influence on SD. While avoiding these foods is a good start, so much more can be done to promote good health and luminous skin.
While it is theoretically possible to obtain proper nutritional needs from foods, study after study shows that North Americans don't even come close to meeting their daily nutritional intake of essential nutrients. We consume too many calories from fats, proteins and carbohydrates. Could this be why Americans are more sickly than Europeans? Here at DermaHarmony we promote the healing of the digestive tract, good nutrition, and supplement use for supporting ideal skin health and reducing inflammation in the body. Painless inflammation is the body's normal response to injury or trauma. In some conditions, the inflammatory process can be triggered without apparent injury. Since dermatitis is basically an inflammation of the upper layers of the skin, natural methods of reducing inflammation are thought to be helpful.
Dermatitis.
Most people suffering from dry skin tell us they have tried nearly every cream, lotion, and moisturizer out there. Regardless of what they use or how often they use it, their dry skin will often persist. Many think dry skin is just something they have to live with. They may not have given much thought to a simple environmental factor like their water - the possibility that the water they bathe in, wash their dishes, clothes and linens in, and even drink may be contributing to the problem.
Hard water is a common culprit in the fight against dry skin, but many people don't really know what hard water is. Others may have heard of it, but even some who think they may have it may not take the time to have their water tested to see how hard it actually is, or to find out what they can do about it.
Water tests typically examine levels of:
Alkalinity
Chlorine
Hardness
pH
Peroxide
Iron & Copper
Nitrate & Nitrite
Heavy metals
Inorganic chemicals
Organic chemicals
Hard water is defined as highly alkaline (high pH) water that contains high levels of iron, magnesium and/or calcium ions. pH is a logarithmic scale starting at 0 and going to 14. Zero is as acid as you can get and 14 is as alkaline as you can get. Seven is the ideal pH of water, and what we consider to be neutral. Each integer represents 10 times the previous one (ie: a pH of 6 is ten times as acidic as a pH of 7). The natural pH of the human body at a cellular level is around 7.3.
Remember, water is the universal solvent. When these minerals enter your water supply, they "harden" the water and make it difficult for other substances like detergents, soaps, or any sort of solute (something that dissolves in a solvent) to enter into solution.
As a result, you may see an increase in clogged plumbing; deposits of soap, iron, and lime in your showers, sinks, and faucets; difficulty getting soaps to lather and rinse off and out; and persistent dry flaky skin. These signs are all indicative of hard water, but to be certain a water test can be performed. This will not only confirm if you have hard water but also whether the problem is mild, moderate, or severe.
Hard water and your skin
This build-up or "hardening" of minerals in hard water makes it very difficult for other substances to dissolve in that water, including soaps and detergents. The various undissolved substances can leave a surface residue on the washing machine, your clothing, your plumbing, tub, or shower - and your hair and skin. With that, bathing and washing our clothes in hard water can lead to increased skin irritation.
Whenever we bathe, we often lather ourselves up with soaps, shampoos, conditioners and other cosmetics and cleaning products. If your water is hard, you may notice these products aren't lathering up sufficiently. This could prompt you to use more of the product. Next we start the process of rinsing, which is where the combination of hard water and increased amounts of cleansing products can really work against us, and a more problematic residue of the hard water and cleaning products may be left on the skin.
The soap residue left behind on your skin clogs the pores and irritates the skin, making it itchy, flaky, and dry. The minerals in the hard water itself can also clog skin pores, which can be especially harmful to more sensitive areas like the face. Facial skin or other areas that are thin, reddened, or irritated from associated dry skin conditions may worsen, with flushing from damage to the blood vessels.
In addition to your skin carrying a residue of soap and hard water, our clothing, sheets, and linens are also susceptible. The water in our washing machines is typically no different from that in our showers; it too can leave detergent residue in our clothing and linens. Therefore, our skin can be in constant contact with this residue, causing chafing, rubbing and further skin irritation.
Hard water can be especially irritating to those who already suffer from a skin condition like dermatitis. Dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin, and outbreaks are more common when one suffers from persistently dry skin. While hard water itself doesn't cause dermatitis, it can irritate the condition or even initiate a flare-up. One of the most common effects of hard water is its ability to dry out the skin and leave it unable to absorb moisture. The combination of hard water with a co-existing dermatitis condition can lead to more frequent and severe outbreaks.
Remedies for hard water
The best remedy for hard water is to try and make it softer. Soft water is literally the opposite of hard water; it is water in its purest form - minus the mineral ions. Without the minerals, soft water rinses the soaps and detergents from our bodies and clothes much more efficiently. This leaves our pores unclogged, allowing moisture to be absorbed, and with softer, healthier skin.
If you are on a municipal water system, you can ask the water supplier to provide you with the hardness level of the water they deliver. If you have a private water supply, you can have the water tested for hardness. If you suspect or know that your household has hard water and you have well water, the remedy may be as simple as obtaining a water softener. However, if your water is from a public supply, a water softening unit would have to be installed, and this can be much more complicated and expensive.
If you are unable to address your hard water at the source, then there are some other things you can do to protect your skin from its harsh effects:
Use less soap products to decrease soapy residue.
Take shorter showers to reduce your skin's exposure to hardened minerals.
Use store-bought water to wash your face only (the face is more sensitive to hard water).
Apply shielding lotions to help protect against certain substances.
These steps will allow your skin to absorb more moisture. The more you protect against dry skin, the less vulnerable you are to severe dermatitis outbreaks triggered or further irritated by associated dry skin conditions.
Hard water is a common culprit in the fight against dry skin, but many people don't really know what hard water is. Others may have heard of it, but even some who think they may have it may not take the time to have their water tested to see how hard it actually is, or to find out what they can do about it.
Water tests typically examine levels of:
Alkalinity
Chlorine
Hardness
pH
Peroxide
Iron & Copper
Nitrate & Nitrite
Heavy metals
Inorganic chemicals
Organic chemicals
Hard water is defined as highly alkaline (high pH) water that contains high levels of iron, magnesium and/or calcium ions. pH is a logarithmic scale starting at 0 and going to 14. Zero is as acid as you can get and 14 is as alkaline as you can get. Seven is the ideal pH of water, and what we consider to be neutral. Each integer represents 10 times the previous one (ie: a pH of 6 is ten times as acidic as a pH of 7). The natural pH of the human body at a cellular level is around 7.3.
Remember, water is the universal solvent. When these minerals enter your water supply, they "harden" the water and make it difficult for other substances like detergents, soaps, or any sort of solute (something that dissolves in a solvent) to enter into solution.
As a result, you may see an increase in clogged plumbing; deposits of soap, iron, and lime in your showers, sinks, and faucets; difficulty getting soaps to lather and rinse off and out; and persistent dry flaky skin. These signs are all indicative of hard water, but to be certain a water test can be performed. This will not only confirm if you have hard water but also whether the problem is mild, moderate, or severe.
Hard water and your skin
This build-up or "hardening" of minerals in hard water makes it very difficult for other substances to dissolve in that water, including soaps and detergents. The various undissolved substances can leave a surface residue on the washing machine, your clothing, your plumbing, tub, or shower - and your hair and skin. With that, bathing and washing our clothes in hard water can lead to increased skin irritation.
Whenever we bathe, we often lather ourselves up with soaps, shampoos, conditioners and other cosmetics and cleaning products. If your water is hard, you may notice these products aren't lathering up sufficiently. This could prompt you to use more of the product. Next we start the process of rinsing, which is where the combination of hard water and increased amounts of cleansing products can really work against us, and a more problematic residue of the hard water and cleaning products may be left on the skin.
The soap residue left behind on your skin clogs the pores and irritates the skin, making it itchy, flaky, and dry. The minerals in the hard water itself can also clog skin pores, which can be especially harmful to more sensitive areas like the face. Facial skin or other areas that are thin, reddened, or irritated from associated dry skin conditions may worsen, with flushing from damage to the blood vessels.
In addition to your skin carrying a residue of soap and hard water, our clothing, sheets, and linens are also susceptible. The water in our washing machines is typically no different from that in our showers; it too can leave detergent residue in our clothing and linens. Therefore, our skin can be in constant contact with this residue, causing chafing, rubbing and further skin irritation.
Hard water can be especially irritating to those who already suffer from a skin condition like dermatitis. Dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin, and outbreaks are more common when one suffers from persistently dry skin. While hard water itself doesn't cause dermatitis, it can irritate the condition or even initiate a flare-up. One of the most common effects of hard water is its ability to dry out the skin and leave it unable to absorb moisture. The combination of hard water with a co-existing dermatitis condition can lead to more frequent and severe outbreaks.
Remedies for hard water
The best remedy for hard water is to try and make it softer. Soft water is literally the opposite of hard water; it is water in its purest form - minus the mineral ions. Without the minerals, soft water rinses the soaps and detergents from our bodies and clothes much more efficiently. This leaves our pores unclogged, allowing moisture to be absorbed, and with softer, healthier skin.
If you are on a municipal water system, you can ask the water supplier to provide you with the hardness level of the water they deliver. If you have a private water supply, you can have the water tested for hardness. If you suspect or know that your household has hard water and you have well water, the remedy may be as simple as obtaining a water softener. However, if your water is from a public supply, a water softening unit would have to be installed, and this can be much more complicated and expensive.
If you are unable to address your hard water at the source, then there are some other things you can do to protect your skin from its harsh effects:
Use less soap products to decrease soapy residue.
Take shorter showers to reduce your skin's exposure to hardened minerals.
Use store-bought water to wash your face only (the face is more sensitive to hard water).
Apply shielding lotions to help protect against certain substances.
These steps will allow your skin to absorb more moisture. The more you protect against dry skin, the less vulnerable you are to severe dermatitis outbreaks triggered or further irritated by associated dry skin conditions.
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