Eczema and dermatitis are manifestations of the same condition and the terms are often interchanged. Some forms of the condition are described and named "eczema" and some are referred to as "dermatitis".

Eczema is a group of skin conditions, which can vary in severity. Mild symptoms can cause dry, itchy skin and more severe cases can result in broken, raw or bleeding skin.

Causes

Scientific research increasingly points to culprits such as chemicals used in shampoos, body washes, bubble baths, washing powders, fabric softeners and swimming pools, as well as synthetic clothing and central heating.

Food additives such as preservatives and colouring have been implicated, along with reactions to foods such as eggs, peanuts, dairy foods and wheat.

The incidence of asthma and hayfever, which are related to eczema, has doubled in the developed world in the last 10 years.

Many researchers blame home environments for being "too clean", preventing the body's immune system from developing properly.

General Treatment

Avoid

Avoid using any skincare product containing artificial fragrance (identified as "fragrance" or "perfume" on the ingredients label), and those containing preservatives, where possible.

Almost every liquid shampoo is detergent based and most should be avoided as these strip the hair and scalp of natural oils.

Always check the ingredients listing. Try to avoid using shampoos containing detergents and sulfates.

When using moisturisers and lotions, avoid using those containing petrochemicals such as mineral oil, petrolatum, paraffin and propylene glycol.

Laundry detergents that are heavily scented can contain harsh chemicals such as optical whiteners, foaming agents and fabric softener. (See detergent free laundry liquid for a do-it-yourself alternative)

Recommended

Use a cold processed soap, free from artificial fragrances and preservatives. Cold processed soaps are glycerin rich and less likely to dry out the skin. (See castile soap).

Infused calendula oil can soothe sore, inflamed and itchy skin. It is used for many damaged skin conditions such as nappy rash, sore and cracked nipples, minor burns and eczema.

Essential oils of juniperberry, carrot seed, cedarwood, lavender, patchouli, sandalwood, thyme, chamomile (German or Roman) and geranium, are said to relieve the symptoms of eczema. (Always use essential oils diluted in carrier oils in the appropriate dilutions.)

However, topical skin treatments will address the symptoms but not the cause.

Solving skin conditions such as eczema ultimately relies on identifying and removing the underlying cause.

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