What Is Eczema? (Part III)
Most dermatologists will treat eczema with topical steroids.
Holistic doctors such as Dr. Weil however, believe these drugs are only supressing the problem and will actually cause the eczema to worsen over time.
Have you found that topicals work for awhile, but begin to lose their effectiveness after a period of time?
That’s the body building resistence to the topically-applied steroids.
Other side-effects of the prolonged use of steroids are that it can lower your immune system over time and patients using steroids can experience thinning of the skin, formation of dilated blood vessels, stretch marks and infection.
The good news is there is a new class of steroid-free alternative called ‘topical immunomodulators’ or TIMS, which appear to be more effective than steroids, and have fewer side-effects since they do not interfere with the body’s immune system.
Of these topical immunomodulators (pimecrolimus and tacrolimus), only tacrolimus has been approved by the FDA.
However, there is even more you can do yourself. After all, the health of our skin begins on the inside, so applying these supplemental tips could only help your eczema and overall health (please consult with your physician if you have any health concerns before taking any supplements):
- Begin eating foods that contain Essential Fatty Acids or take supplements for this– Especially Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA) and Omega 6 to promote healthy growth of the skin.
- To produce prostaglandins (our natural steroids), you need to add Vitamin C, B3 (Niacin), B6 and the minerals Zinc and Magnesium.
- If digestions is a problem for you (do you get gas, heartburn or upset stomach after eating?), then begin taking Hydrochloric Acid or food enzymes to facilitate the break down of your food so the immune system doesn’t need to create antibodies to rid itself of the undigested portions.
- Vitamin A and its precursor, Beta Carotene, are also a good idea since a deficiency in Vitamin A causes thickening of the skin, commonly found in eczema.
- Use Aloe Vera gel topically (either directly from the plant itself or purchase it…just make sure it doens’t contain alcohol or other harmful chemicals) or you can use Calendula cream.
- Salves contain ‘chaparral’ (Larrea divaricata)a dessert plant used in Mexican folk medicine.
- Since eczema can be aggravated by stress, visualization and hypnotherapy can help allergies related to skin conditions.
- Hot spring water is very beneficial, so if you happen to live near one, by all means…go for a dip!
Please be sure to avoid showering or bathing for long periods of time and rinse off any soap residue well. Pat your skin thoroughly, without leaving any moisture and especially avoid rubbing on the directly affected area. Be sure to follow by applying a thick layer of moisturizing cream, preferably one that contains no fragrances.
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To Your Skin’s Health!
Derma Diva Rosa.
