Top Recommendations for Patients With Eczema
Eczema is characterized by inflammation, barrier defect, blistering, itching, and very dry skin. Eczematous skin can get so dry that it cracks…and then microbial infection can become an additional problem. What to do to keep skin with eczema smooth, happy, and healthy…and steroid free? Let’s start with what not to do. What To Avoid: Harsh soaps; Hot water; Frequent […]
Eczema Flare-Up? Here’s What To Do…
If you’re noticing a flare coming, try staving it off with a steroid-free soothing balm or anti-inflammatory balm. If you experience a flare-up, follow what your doctor prescribes. First, practice mindfulness. Eczema is an inflammatory condition. Panic and stress can fuel inflammation. Make your first action to practice your calming techniques such as meditation and breathing […]
What Causes Eczema?
Eczema causes include… a. Contact dermatitis From… Allergens in skincare and makeup; Clothing, jewelry, eyeglasses, accessories; Phone and computer materials and protective cases; Flowers, plants, and fruits; Insecticides, dishwashing liquids, laundry detergents, house cleaning solutions; Airborne allergens from perfumes, room sprays, even vaping. There are many more common contact allergens than you might think. This is why […]
What Is Eczema?
Eczema is… …not any “sensitive skin.” Eczema is a general term for atopic dermatitis, which is the inflammation in the upper dermis of the skin. This inflammation brings about “edema,” which is swelling from fluid retention. The fluid then moves upwards to the epidermis (the skin’s topmost layer), collects in between cells, and eventually becomes fluid-filled “bubbles” […]
Skincare To Swipe Right On
You’re so good about eating well (your friends say you should start charging for tips), exercising daily (people call out your name when you walk into the gym), sleeping more, controlling stress, and being happier (your new nickname is sensei). For your skin, you’ve done your research (you’re on a first-name basis with beauty bloggers), you’ve become a formidable […]
INFINITY STONES: Allergen or Not An Allergen?
Not An Allergen…but a Strong Irritant SPOILERS ahead for Avengers: End Game. If you have not seen the movie, stop reading here. Infinity Stones Infinity stones are extremely dangerous, but we feel that they are more likely to be irritants than allergens. Irritants should not be thought of as less bothersome than allergens. In fact, irritants can […]
VITAMIN B: Allergen or Not An Allergen?
Not An Allergen Vitamin B While not a common contact allergen, there may be reason to “B” cautious. Vitamin B, in foods and supplements, is linked to acne. This is truer more for vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin or cyanocobalamin — new research is deepening our understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind this effect) but also for vitamin […]
FORMALDEHYDE: Allergen or Not An Allergen?
Allergen Formaldehyde Among the top 20 contact allergens on published lists, formaldehyde was the American Contact Dermatitis Society‘s Allergen of the Year in 2015 and is found in many, many things that we use every day, including: Laundry products House cleaning products (furniture polishing, surface disinfecting, floor cleaning, etc.) Medicinal ointments and creams; some dental disinfectants; some medical devices like orthopedic […]
UBE (purple yam): Allergen or Not An Allergen?
Not An Allergen Ube This root vegetable is famous for its striking, Prince-worthy purple color and is native to the Philippines, where it comes in several varieties and is a staple in savory and sweet dishes. Possibly because of its relative newness, it is not a common contact allergen. It is already known to be […]