Eczema most often appears in the form of red patches of eczema on the skin, or even itchy spots. These trigger itching. This disease is not contagious. There are two forms of eczema. The treatment of this chronic inflammatory pathology is often similar. We will address the following points here:
- Why does eczema get triggered? Why does an eczema patch appear?
- Symptoms of eczema on the skin
- The best treatments for eczema
What causes eczema?
Eczema is a chronic skin pathology. Eczema flare-ups correspond to more or less long periods of remission. The main cause of eczema is directly linked to the immune system. The development and attacks of eczema will vary depending on each person. They can be controlled in certain cases.
Different triggering factors for eczema flare-ups can be cited:
Atopy
In certain patients, a favorable genetic background exists before the onset of a flare-up. We talk aboutatopy when the immune system promotes the development of allergies. This is why we call this type of skin problematopic eczema or of atopic dermatitis.
heredity
50% to 70% of people with eczema have a genetic background favorable to the development of eczema. The abnormal presence of lgE antibodies may come from an inherited genetic background. The alteration of the skin barrier leads to increased sensitivity of the skin towards any allergenic element.
The allergies
In the event of exposure or after a phase of sensitization to environmental allergens, the immune system manifests its aggression through skin rashes, plaques, or even pimples. The most classic allergens are:
- mites
- animal hair
- pollen
- certain chemicals
- costume jewelry
That said, allergens can also be linked to psychological trauma linked to a memory. A child abandoned at the gates of a school can, for example, develop a metal allergy.
Eczema in children, infant eczema
From the age of 3 months, an infant can develop atopic eczema linked to a particular allergy. The immune system of young children is indeed still very fragile. This explains the occurrence of such pathology and inflammation of the skin. We are talking about allergic reactions. However, this type of eczema generally resolves quickly, as the immune system becomes more advanced with age.
Eczema or atopic dermatitis in adulthood
Atopic skin has certain characteristics. Its natural hydrolipidic film is failing. The fats naturally present on the epidermis are insufficient. So the skin is dry, since it is not protected. The absence of filaggrin, for example, at the heart of the protective hydrolipidic film prevents it from forming an effective skin barrier.
Faced with an environmental or topical allergenic attack, the skin's immune defenses are then put into action. The skin reacts by triggering inflammation. Red patches of eczema appear. This is a major cause of the appearance of symptoms of atopic eczema.
Contact eczema
When an individual secretes an abnormally high level of lgE antibodies, the risk of allergies increases tenfold. Thus, in the event of particular contact with an allergenic substance, we then speak ofcontact eczema.
By identifying the cause of contact eczema, it is possible to stop any flare-ups. This is why the patient, depending on the affected area, must try to identify the cause of their allergy. When contact eczema affects the face, you should review your actions. Review all materials that may have touched the face. Obviously the facial care routine must be questioned first.
Identifying the cause of an eczema attack will help put an end to the allergenic reaction. However, the skin lesions that appear will not necessarily disappear. It will be appropriate to provide the skin with specific treatment. The latter will then be able to eliminate traces of inflammation.
Environmental triggers of eczema
In addition to factors linked to allergies, in the case of atopic dermatitis, flare-ups can be linked to:
- the environment, and in particular weather changes.
- Contact with the skin considered aggressive.
– Let us cite here contact with perfumes and certain hygiene products
– heat: shower too hot, or weather favoring perspiration
– clothing materials such as wool for example. It can attack the skin if it is rough. - Certain foods. We think in particular of milk for infants which can trigger an allergic reaction. It is then expressed by a skin reaction.
Stress and nervous eczema
Stress is a big factor when it comes to eczema. It can be the source of triggering an eczema flare-up. It can also worsen an already existing eczema plaque situation.
Sleep disorders in adulthood can also cause stress for patients. They accentuate a feeling of stress which is harmful to the health of the skin.
How to recognize an eczema patch?
Your doctor, an essential ally in identifying your skin problem
Inflammation of the skin, the presence of red patches or even pimples can correspond to different pathologies. Consulting your doctor to obtain an informed diagnosis of a skin problem is an essential step. It will determine the choice of an appropriate treatment. The symptoms of eczema are sometimes confused with those of psoriasis or even vitiligo. A medical consultation will help define your skin problem.
Your general practitioner will be able to provide you with answers. Among the health professions best suited to establishing a reliable diagnosis, dermatologists are ideally suited. Especially when it comes to identifying an allergen.
What does eczema look like? Symptoms, redness and more
Eczema is an inflammatory reaction of the skin. There are 3 major manifestations ofeczema or atopic dermatitis.
Eczema = severe itching
This severe itching is common in patients suffering from eczema. However, they are not systematic. When this itching is severe, we speak of pruritus. Of course, scratching these plaques is strongly discouraged. Since eczema reveals a weakness in the immune system protecting the skin, it is better not to make things worse.
Intense scratching can make eczema patches worse.
Eczema plaque = skin lesion
These skin lesions are the symptom of eczema. They generally come in the following forms:
Redness of the epidermis
They appear in the form of eczema patches.
Eczema spots, oozing and scabs
Small oozing spots may occur. They are called vesicles. After too intense scratching, small scabs may form.
Bumpy, irregular epidermis
The skin appears rough. She is clearly in pain.
Dry skin
Dry skin is a sign of skin distress. This symptom can also signal a predisposition to eczema.
How to recognize a contact allergy? Contact eczema?
Several symptoms can suggest contact eczema. They are quite similar to those of atopic eczema.
- red patches tends to be dry and has irregular contours.
- vesicle plaques sips of clear liquid. These patches are oozing. The blisters often cause itching (skin pruritus).
- If the itch is scratched, the blisters ooze. They lead to the formation of scabs on the skin. However, when they disappear, no scars will remain.
Where is eczema located?
Eczema patches often on the hands, feet, arms, back and neck
An eczema patch can appear on almost any area of the body.
- We most commonly find theeczema on the hands and feet. These areas are those which are most frequently in contact with allergenic substances.
- For the same reasons, eczema on arms is also common.
- Scalp can also be affected by eczema. It is then also called seborrheic dermatitis. Remember to report scalp eczema when you go to the hairdresser. He will thus be able to choose a shampoo that is as allergenic as possible.
- Eczema on the face is rarer. It is undoubtedly the most handicapping for social life.
How to treat an eczema patch?
Hydrate and nourish the skin
In addition to several Useful tips for atopic dermatitis. Skin prone to eczema must first of all always be regularly hydrated. The list of moisturizers indicated for eczema is long. We will focus here on the Pso Natura Rich Restructuring Cream.
Pso Natura Rich Restructuring Cream
It is one of the best moisturizers suitable for this type of dermatological condition. Exclusively formulated with Carapa Procera oil, it provides the skin with long-lasting hydration. This oil is rich in triterpene vitamins and has anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream can be used every day to strengthen the skin's hydrolipidic film. It is also, during the treatment of eczema, a complementary treatment to the Pso Natura Foaming Regenerative Complex. It can be used on all parts of the body.
In addition, this moisturizing and nourishing cream is 99% natural. This formulation helps limit the risk of allergic reactions.
Finally, the Rich Restructuring Cream is economical thanks to its strong spreading power. You only need a small amount of product to achieve good hydration. This cream leaves the skin satiny. It doesn't stick. It is easy to get dressed immediately after application. It does not stain clothes.
Treat an eczema patch with appropriate care
The Regenerating Foaming Complex is an essential treatment. It helps to remove red patches and small pimples on the skin. This is a true 100% natural treatment. This treatment is initially useful over a period of one month, twice a day.
It is simple to use. It comes in the form of a soft paste. Place a small spoonful of treatment on the loofah sponge provided, moistened with lukewarm water. Create a lather by massaging in circular movements. Day after day, the red patches fade, then disappear. THE patient testimonials are eloquent.
For the treatment of eczema patches and skin care
This treatment is used as a treatment initially. Then, after the eczema patches have disappeared, it is good to regularly maintain your skin. Once a week or even every two weeks. Everyone must assess their needs based on their individual feelings.
Medicines for eczema
Most prescription medications for eczema are topical treatments. Clearly, they must be applied directly to the skin. THE topical corticosteroids, formulated with cortisone are most often prescribed.
In the long term, doctors advise against the regular use of topical corticosteroids. They generate an habituation effect. The treatment of eczema therefore becomes less and less effective over time. The skin feels doped.
Consequently, it is essential to remember that such treatment must be stopped gradually. The rebound effect of the disease is thus avoided. Without this, a new attack of eczema may occur.
In addition, topical corticosteroids tend to refine the epidermis in the long term. They can therefore weaken the skin.
So the basic rule when it comes to topical corticosteroids is simple. Do not abuse.
Eczema plaque: conclusion
Eczema affects 2% to 5% of the world's population. It is a common dermatological condition. There is no definitive treatment to cure eczema. This is explained by the fact that our genetic heritage predisposes us – or not – to developing the disease.
Fighting eczema or even just a patch of eczema requires daily vigilance. Thus the risks of exposure to allergenic elements can be limited.
Minimizing traces of eczema also involves daily hydration of the skin. The epidermis of an individual affected by eczema suffers from a chronic lack of hydration. This lack promotes the appearance of eczema plaques.
Finally, the treatment of eczema can be carried out naturally. Topical corticosteroids are not the only existing solution. On the contrary, using more natural formulations helps limit the risks of skin exposure to allergens.
Also consult the work of specialists: Hand eczema: clinical and pathophysiological classifications
