Category Archives: Eczema

Ceramides are lipid molecules that play an important role in the structure and barrier function of the skin, such as preventing moisture loss and protecting against environmental damage. Although the body produces ceramides, levels in the skin decline with age.

When ceramide levels decline, it can lead to drier, more sensitive skin or other issues. However, people can take supplements or use skin care products that contain ceramides to replenish their levels. Some research suggests that these may help improve skin health.

Keep reading to learn more about ceramides, their benefits, and potential drawbacks for the skin.

Ceramides a type of lipid made of sphingosine and a fatty acid constitute about 50% of the intercellular stratum corneum lipids. These are the lipids between the cells of the top layer of the epidermis.

Ceramides play a role in brain and nervous system development but are also important in maintaining healthy skin. They create a barrier that helps prevent moisture loss keeping skin hydrated, plump, and supple. The barrier also protects the skin from harmful irritants, bacteria, and other environmental toxins.

Learn more about the skin and its structure here.

Ceramides have multiple benefits for skin health.

The natural aging process and the overuse of harsh soaps or exfoliants can lead to ceramide loss in the skin.

When ceramide levels decline, the stratum corneum or protective outer barrier of the skin becomes compromised, and tiny cracks can form. This breakdown in the skin barrier can make it easier for infection and skin inflammation to occur.

Replenishing lost ceramides keeps the skin barrier healthy and functioning as it should.

Ceramides can lock in moisture and boost hydration. When skin is dehydrated, it can become rough, and cracks can develop.

When the skins barrier becomes compromised, it can lead to transepidermal epidermal water loss (TEWL). This water loss refers to the amount of water that passes through the epidermis, a layer in the skin, and evaporates on the skins surface. As a result of TEWL, the skin may then become dry and inflamed with an increased risk of developing inflammatory conditions such as psoriasis, acne, and eczema.

Research shows that ceramide cream can significantly decrease TEWL, which, in turn, boosts skin hydration and improves barrier function.

Some studies also suggest that using ceramide moisturizers in conjunction with acne treatment can help combat the dry skin and irritation these treatments cause.

Increasing hydration also helps soften and smoothen the skin, which improves its overall look and feel.

As people age, their skin changes as it loses structural proteins, such as collagen, elastin, and keratin. This, and the other processes involved in the degradation of the skin barrier, leads to thinner skin and visible signs of aging such as wrinkles, lines, and sagging.

Ceramides have water-retaining properties that prevent moisture loss from the skin. Hydrated skin can help minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, which are often more visible when the skin is dry.

Ceramide creams can also stimulate the production of keratinocytes, which make keratin. The increase of keratin helps rejuvenate the skin barrier and reduce signs of aging.

Exposure to sunlight and UV rays is responsible for 90% of the visible skin changes such as wrinkles, fine lines, and pigmentary changes. Dermatologists refer to this as photoaging, and it is the direct result of cumulative sun damage over a lifetime.

A 2021 study found that using ceramide-containing moisturizers and sunscreens can protect the skin against UV damage to the skin barrier. In addition, the products seemed to improve skin hydration, help maintain normal cell turnover, and combat redness and hyperpigmentation.

Topical ceramides typically work well for most skin types, are safe for most people, and are not likely to cause side effects.

However, individuals should be aware that certain cosmetic products often contain multiple ingredients besides ceramides.

Therefore, as with any new addition to a skin care routine, performing a patch test before using it on a large area is good practice. This involves applying a small amount of product on an area of skin and waiting 24 hours for any reaction.

People should be aware that ceramide dietary supplements may contain allergens, such as gluten, soy nuts, or fish.

Natural ceramides are found in the skin, whereas skin care products can contain synthetic ceramides.

Plant-derived ceramides can support skin ceramides and are chemically similar. Foods that may contain ceramides include:

Various products contain ceramides, including:

Ceramides 2 and 3 often appear in the ingredients labels of products designed for the face and neck.

Ceramides may appear as ceramide AP, ceramide EOP, ceramide NG, ceramide NP, ceramide NS, and phytosphingosine, in the ingredients list of over the counter products. The label may also list sphingosine, an organic chemical compound involved in making ceramides.

Ceramides are lipids that play a central role in skin structure. They improve the barrier function, which helps prevent moisture loss and keeps the skin hydrated and supple.

The skin barrier also protects the body from harmful pathogens, irritants, and environmental toxins. Therefore, infections and other skin conditions can develop if it is compromised.

As people age, they naturally lose ceramides. However, a person can boost ceramide levels through topical ceramide creams or dietary supplements. These products may help improve skin health, boost barrier function and hydration, protect against harmful UV rays, and rejuvenate aging skin.

Typically, ceramides are safe. They are not likely to cause serious side effects. Although before using, people should perform a patch test on a small area of skin to check if they are sensitive to any ingredient in the product.

Excerpt from:
What are the benefits of ceramides for the skin? - Medical News Today

Researchers speculate that type two inflammation that occurs in allergic conditions may reduce levels of the ACE2 receptor on the surface of airway cells, where SARS-CoV-2s spike protein binds to. (Pictured: Novel Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 under and electron microscope) NIAID

A new study from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that those with food allergies are 50 percent less likely to become infected with SARS-CoV-2. Along with the new finding, the research also found that obesity and a high body mass index (BMI) are factors for an increased risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection and that asthma or eczema did not increase the risk for infection, an NIHstatementexplains. Details on the study were published last month in theJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.

Researchers analyzed 4,000 people in 1,400 households, including minors, in theHuman Epidemiology and Response to SARS-CoV-2(HEROS) study. They noticed that individuals with a food allergy were about half as likely to become infected, reports Carly Cassella forScience Alert. Along with these findings, theHEROS data found that children 12 years or younger are just as likely to become infected with the virus as teens and adults (75 percent of infections in the children were asymptomatic). Data was collected between May 2020 and February 2021, before the widespread roll-out of Covid-19 vaccines among non-healthcare workers in the United States and before the widespread emergence of various variants of the virus, per a statement. The research also found that allergic conditions like asthma, despite being a respiratory illness,may offer some protection against severe cases of Covid-19.

"The HEROS study findings underscore the importance of vaccinating children and implementing other public health measures to prevent them from becoming infected with SARS-CoV-2, thus protecting both children and vulnerable members of their household from the virus," says Anthony S. Fauci, M.D., director of the National Institute of Allergy, and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) in a statement.

Half of the study participants stated that they were diagnosed with either a food allergy, asthma, eczema or allergic rhinitisconditions that were confirmed by blood tests. Researchers then tracked SARS-CoV-2 infections among households by taking nasal swabs of participants every two weeks and filling out weekly surveys. If a participant developed symptoms of Covid-19, more nasal swabs and blood samples were taken, a statement explains. The team found that household transmission of SARS-CoV-2 was lower in homes with individuals with food allergies, according to the study.

Researchers speculate that type two inflammationa normal immune response that can occur in response to infections or parasites but also occurs in allergic conditions like eczema and some asthmasmay reduce levels of the ACE2 receptor on the surface of airway cells. ACE2 is the receptor that the SARS-CoV-2s spike protein binds to, allowing the virus to enter cells. Having fewer ACE2 receptors limits the virus's ability to infect, per a statement. More research is needed to identify what other mechanisms may play a role in reducing the risk of viral infection, perScience Alert.

Recommended Videos

Read the original here:
Some Allergies Associated With Lower Risk of SARS-CoV-2 Infection - Smithsonian Magazine

Test tubes labelled "Monkeypox virus positive and negative" are seen in this illustration taken May 23, 2022.

Dado Ruvic | Reuters

The Biden administration has distributed 1,200 monkeypox vaccine doses for people who have had high-risk exposures to the virus, part of a nationwide public health response to stamp out the disease before it causes a major outbreak.

U.S. health officials, worried the virus is spreading faster than previously thought, have said the global outbreak of monkeypox is the largest ever. The World Health Organization said Wednesday that there are now more than 550 cases across 30 countries. In the U.S., at least 20 confirmed or suspected cases have been reported in 11 states, including California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Utah and Washington state, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

"A monkeypox outbreak of this scale and scope across the world, it has not been seen before," Dr. Raj Panjabi, who leads the White House pandemic preparedness office, told reporters on a call last week.

However, CDC officials have sought to reassure the public that the arrival of monkeypox in the U.S. is vastly different from Covid-19, which blindsided the country two years ago. Scientists knew little about Covid when it first emerged and the U.S. had no vaccines or antiviral treatments to fight the virus in 2020.

Monkeypox, on the other hand, has been known to scientists since 1958 when the virus was first identified during outbreaks among monkeys kept for research purposes, and its transmission in humans has been studied since the 1970s. Global health authorities also have extensive experience successfully fighting smallpox, which the World Health Organization declared eradicated in 1980 after a successful global vaccination effort. Monkeypox is in the same virus family as smallpox though it is much milder.

CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky told reporters last week that the U.S. has been preparing for an outbreak from a virus like monkeypox for decades. The U.S. has millions of vaccine doses in the strategic national stockpile that protect against monkeypox and smallpox as well as antiviral pills to treat the diseases.

Dawn O'Connell, who leads the Health and Human Services office responsible for the strategic national stockpile, said on Friday that the U.S. has enough vaccine on hand to manage the current monkeypox outbreak. However, O'Connell would not disclose how many shots the U.S. has at the ready.

The U.S. has two vaccines but the preferred option is in shorter supply. Jynneos is a two-dose vaccine approved by the FDA in 2019 to prevent monkeypox in people ages 18 and older. The CDC generally recommends Jynneos over the other option, ACAM2000, which is an older generation smallpox vaccine that can have serious side effects.

Last week, CDC official Dr. Jennifer McQuiston said the U.S. has 1,000 doses of Jynneos available. However, the Danish biotech company that makes the shots, Bavarian Nordic, said the U.S. actually has a supply of more than 1 million Jynneos frozen doses stored in the U.S. and Denmark under an order placed in April 2020. The shots have a shelf life of three years.

The U.S. has ordered close to 30 million Jynneos doses since 2010 but 28 million of them expired, the spokesperson said.Bavarian Nordic plans to increase production this summer and has the capacity to produce 30 million shots a year, the spokesperson said.

The U.S. government also has a stockpile of more than 100 million doses of ACAM2000, made by Emergent BioSolutions, McQuiston told reporters last week. The U.S. had released 500 doses of Jynneos and 200 doses of ACAM2000 as of Tuesday, according to the CDC. The U.S.has also sent out 100 courses of the oral antiviral tecovirimat to the states, health officials said Friday.

"We want to ensure that people with high risk exposures have rapid access to vaccines and if they become sick, can receive appropriate treatment," Panjabi said on a call with reporters Friday. Jynneos and ACAM2000 can be administered before or after exposure to the virus. However, patients need to receive the vaccines within 4 days of exposure to prevent disease onset.

ACAM2000 has demonstrated high levels of protection against monkeypox in animal models and is expected to provide 85% protection against disease from the virus similar to earlier versions of smallpox vaccines, according to Mike Slifka, an immunologist at Oregon Health and Science University who has studied monkeypox. Less is known about Jynneos because the vaccine is newer but it produced reasonable antibody levels in humans and should protect against severe disease, Slifka said.

The CDC generally recommends Jynneos over ACAM2000 because it is considered safer. ACAM2000 can have serious side effects, and distributing the vaccine widely would require serious discussion, McQuiston said in a call with reporters last week. ACAM2000 uses a mild virus strain in the same family as monkeypox and smallpox that can still replicate, which means there's a risk that the live virus in the vaccine can spread in the human body or to other people.

ACAM2000 is administered with a two-pronged needle that is scratched into the upper arm and the virus then grows into a localized infection in the form of a blister. The patient can potentially spread the virus to other people, or to other parts of their body if they scratch the blister and then rub their eye for example, which can result in vision damage. The FDA warns that it's very important for people vaccinated with ACAM2000 to take proper care of the vaccination site so they don't spread the virus to other people or other parts of the body.

The CDC has said women who are pregnant or breast feeding, people with weak immune systems, those with skin conditions such as eczema or atopic dermatitis, and people with heart disease should not receive ACAM2000. In pregnant women, the virus can spread to the fetus and cause stillbirth. People with weak immune systems face a risk that the virus will grow uncontrollably and cause a dangerous infection, Slifka said. People with skin conditions such as eczema or atopic dermatitis are also at risk of the virus spreading on their skin which can turn into a life-threatening infection, he said.

The Jynneos vaccine, on the other hand, is not associated with these risks because it uses a virus strain that is no longer able to replicate in humans, according to Slifka. It is also administered with a normal syringe like other common shots such as the flu vaccine.

Given the potential side effects of ACAM2000, the vaccine would likely only see wide use in the context of a major smallpox epidemic because that virus is so deadly, according to Dr. Peter Hotez, an infectious disease and vaccine expert at Baylor College of Medicine in Texas. Monkeypox, on the other hand, is a much milder virus and no deaths have been reported in the recent cases in Europe and North America.

Smallpox can have a fatality rate as high as 30%, according to the WHO. The West African strain of monkeypox that appears to be driving the current outbreak likely has a mortality rate somewhere around 1%, though data is sparse because the virus has previously spread mostly in remote parts Africa. Most people recover within two to four weeks without specific medical treatment, according to the CDC. There's another monkeypox strain, Congo Basin, associated with a higher death rate of 3% to 10%, according to the WHO.

"We're very lucky that the outbreak right is the low virulence West African strain," said Dr. Rachel Roper, a professor of microbiology and immunology at East Carolina University who has studied monkeypox.

Though the U.S. has far more tools and more knowledge to fight monkeypox than it had against Covid in 2020, there are still many unknowns about the current outbreak. It's unclear why the virus is now spreading in countries outside West and Central Africa where virus is endemic. Historically, the virus spread in small villages in Africa by jumping from rodents that carry the virus to humans with very little transmission between people, Slifka said. However, the virus now appears to be spreading better between people, he said.

"Through intimate contact and skin-to-skin transmission, it's transmitting better than it has under other circumstances," Slifka said.

Most monkeypox patients in the U.S. travelled internationally in the 21 days before symptom onset which suggests they picked up the virus outside the country, according to McQuiston. The CDC doesn't believe monkeypox is spreading widely in the U.S right now but is closely monitoring the situation. The U.S. has conducted 120 tests so far for orthopoxvirus, the family that includes monkeypox.

"There could be community level transmission that is happening, and that's why we want to really increase our surveillance efforts," McQuiston told reporters during a call on Friday. "We want to really encourage physicians that if they see a rash and they're concerned it might be monkeypox to go ahead and test for that," she said.

WHO officials said on Wednesday that the sudden appearance of monkeypox in multiple countries in North America and Europe indicates that the virus has probably been spreading outside West and Central Africa undetected for some time, though it is unclear for how long. Dr. Rosamund Lewis, the WHO's technical lead for monkeypox, said the virus may be spreading more now because immunity in the human population has waned since smallpox vaccination was halted after the disease was eradicated.

Lewis said the WHO is not recommending mass vaccination against monkeypox because the current outbreak can still be contained. Most of the cases so far have been reported among men who have sex with men, developed symptoms and sought care at sexual health clinics, according to the WHO. Lewis said it is important to provide gay and bisexual men with the information they need to protect themselves from the virus and prevent it from spreading.

The CDC has told people with confirmed or suspected monkeypox infections to isolate at home until local or state health departments say otherwise. People with confirmed infections should remain in isolation until the skin lesions that characterize the disease have completely resolved, the scabs have fallen off and a new layer of skin has formed.

Monkeypox typically starts with symptoms similar to the flu including fever, headache, muscle aches, chills, exhaustion and swollen lymph nodes.Lesions then form on the body, and the virus spreads primarily through skin-to-skin contact with these lesions. Monkeypox can spread through respiratory droplets if a person has lesions in their throat or mouth, but it does not transmit easily this way.

People exposed to monkeypox should monitor for symptoms for 21 days, according to the CDC. They should check their temperature twice daily and monitor for chills, swollen lymph nodes and new skin rashes. If a fever or rash develops, the person should self isolate and contact the local health department immediately.

Visit link:
The CDC is sending monkeypox vaccines to people at high risk in a race to prevent the spread - CNBC

Missing Sikeston teen may be heading to Kansas City area

14-year-old Aisha Grayson was last seen May 23.

Updated: 9:35 AM CDT Jun 4, 2022

The Sikeston Department of Public Safety is looking for missing 14-year-old Aisha Grayson.Officers say she was last seen on May 23. Grayson's mother, Shreenia Cummings, says she may be heading to the Kansas City area. Cummings says she is not sure if her daughter is in danger.Grayson is 5 feet 6 inches tall with red and black box braids, and she has eczema on her arms.Cummings says Grayson may be traveling with a young man who has a mustache, and they may be in a silver Kia Soul.If you have any information on Grayson's whereabouts, detectives ask that you call the Sikeston Department of Public Safety at 573-471-4711.

The Sikeston Department of Public Safety is looking for missing 14-year-old Aisha Grayson.

Officers say she was last seen on May 23. Grayson's mother, Shreenia Cummings, says she may be heading to the Kansas City area. Cummings says she is not sure if her daughter is in danger.

Grayson is 5 feet 6 inches tall with red and black box braids, and she has eczema on her arms.

Cummings says Grayson may be traveling with a young man who has a mustache, and they may be in a silver Kia Soul.

If you have any information on Grayson's whereabouts, detectives ask that you call the Sikeston Department of Public Safety at 573-471-4711.

Continue reading here:
Missing Sikeston teen may be heading to Kansas City area - KMBC Kansas City

Cleansing washes away dirt, makeup, and other skin impurities. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells that can clog pores and lead to acne breakouts. Cleansing first may remove surface-level dirt, allowing for better access to dead skin cells when exfoliating. Individuals can discuss their skin care with a dermatologist for the best advice.

Sun exposure, pollution, stress, fatigue, perspiration, and hormonal factors may cause a persons skin to become blemished, damaged, or prematurely aged.

Cleansing and exfoliating the skin both serve an important purpose in maintaining a healthy, glowing complexion. However, for best results, a person may consider cleansing the skin before exfoliating.

Individuals may remove makeup first with a gentle makeup remover and then choose a cleanser that best suits their skin type, such as oily, dry, or combination.

This article will examine the differences between exfoliation and cleansing, the benefits of each, the order in which a person may consider performing them for best results, and other skin care tips.

There are two types of exfoliation, mechanical and chemical.

Mechanical exfoliation uses an abrasive item, such as a sponge, to scrub away dead skin cells. It can also include washes with a rough textured item or exfoliating beads.

Physical exfoliation causes the quick removal of old skin cells. This results in a temporary disruption of the skin barrier, causing increased transepidermal water loss.

Chemical exfoliation removes dead skin cells by slowly dissolving them with chemicals. Common formulations for these exfoliation products include alpha and beta hydroxy acids.

There are also some newer chemical exfoliants called polyhydroxy acids that include lactobionic acid and gluconolactone. These exfoliants have larger molecule sizes, and individuals may find them more tolerable. However, for those with sensitive skin, experts typically recommend mandelic acid.

Removing dead skin cells can make the skin look more vibrant and renewed. It can also prevent acne flares due to a decrease in skin oil that can clog pores.

Exfoliation can be harsh for some skin types and may sting or burn if the skin is sensitive. Specifically, it may not suit individuals with rosacea, allergies, or older skin, and those with darker skin tones may notice pigment changes.

Because many methods of exfoliation are more abrasive than other daily skin care practices, such as cleansing, washing, and toning, a person does not need to exfoliate every day. For most people, once or twice per week is sufficient.

Cleansing the face helps decrease sebum or oil and old skin cells that can clog pores and lead to bacterial overgrowth. In turn, this can cause acne.

Washing the face does not remove all bacteria some are essential for the skin to remain healthy. However, overwashing the face can strip the skins resistance, decrease lipids, and increase water loss.

Dermatologists recommend using a nonabrasive cleanser that does not contain alcohol. Many cleansers use natural ingredients, such as tea tree oil or aloe vera, that are kind to the skin.

A person should use their fingertips to apply it, as washcloths or sponges can cause irritation. They should not scrub the cleanser into the skin. They can then rinse with lukewarm water and pat the face dry with a towel before applying moisturizer.

An individual should also only cleanse twice a day and after sweating.

The main benefit of exfoliating first is that it washes away dead skin cells during cleansing. Using an exfoliant a few times per week before sleeping and cleansing when waking may make for a gentler skin care routine.

A person should not scrub the face with a washcloth or sponge during cleansing, as this can cause irritation.

An individual should use the fingers to gently apply cleanser to the skin, rub in a circular motion, and then rinse with water.

They should follow exfoliation with a suitable moisturizer for their skin type.

Cleansing the face before exfoliation will allow chemical exfoliants to penetrate deep into the skin and prevent makeup or dirt from pushing deeper, especially if also using mechanical exfoliation. However, a gentle cleanser or exfoliant alone should remove makeup and dirt using both may strip the skin of moisture.

A person can follow these tips for cleansing:

Individuals using retinoids or other prescription medications for their skin should consider speaking with their dermatologist or healthcare professional before exfoliating to avoid over-exfoliation.

Keeping skin healthy requires daily attention.

There are a few skin care tips that dermatologists recommend to provide the best results:

Cleansing and exfoliation are both important steps in a persons skin care routine.

Cleansing washes away impurities and bacteria that can lead to acne or other infections. Exfoliation removes excess oil and dead skin cells that can clog pores and lead to acne breakouts.

There are two types of exfoliation chemical and mechanical. The former uses a chemical compound a person applies to the skin to dissolve dead skin cells while mechanical removes them through gentle scrubbing.

Cleansing the skin before exfoliation allows chemical exfoliants to penetrate the skin and prevents a person from scrubbing makeup and dirt into the skin during exfoliation.

For those who can tolerate exfoliants, cleansing the skin beforehand may aid in the absorption of the chemical exfoliants and could prevent dirt or leftover makeup from entering the epidermis.

A person should use a gentle cleanser that suits their skin type and only cleanse twice each day and after sweating.

Those with allergies should always conduct a patch test before using a new product. However, if a person experiences an allergic reaction, they should consult a doctor or healthcare professional as soon as possible.

Original post:
Should you cleanse or exfoliate first? What to know - Medical News Today

OverviewWhat is dry skin?

Dry skin is skin that doesnt have enough moisture in it to keep it feeling soft and supple. People with dry skin may have rough-feeling patches that flake off or look scaly. It may or may not be itchy (pruritis). Severe dry skin may crack and bleed.

Dry skin is a common condition that affects people of all ages.

People who live in dry climates, work outside or wash their hands frequently get dry skin. Dry skin can be related to some health issues, like allergies, hormones, and diabetes.

Older people are more prone to dry skin for many reasons:

Your healthcare provider may use the medical term for dry skin: xerosis. Dry skin is often made worse during the winter because of low humidity. However, it can occur year-round. If its severe, dry skin can cause itching and rashes called dermatitis (inflammation of skin). There are several different types of dermatitis, including:

You can develop dry skin for many reasons, including:

Signs of dry skin include:

Dry skin is fairly easy to diagnose by its appearance. Depending on your symptoms, your healthcare provider may order tests to check for health conditions that cause dry skin, such as:

Your healthcare provider may recommend moisturizing your skin with:

Skin thats too dry may crack open and bleed. These cracks expose the body to germs that can cause infections. Rarely, dry, itchy skin can indicate a more serious health problem, such as diabetes or kidney disease.

Applying moisturizers every day can help soften dry skin. You can also try these at-home methods:

Most people can successfully treat dry skin by using a daily moisturizer and taking proactive steps like minimizing exposure to hot water and other irritants. Its a good idea to take care of dry skin for your overall health. Rough, dry skin can feel uncomfortable and look unsightly. And if your skin gets so dry skin that it cracks open, youll be more prone to infections.

You should call your healthcare provider if your skin:

If youre concerned about skin dryness, talk to your healthcare provider. You may want to ask:

Dry skin may look unattractive, and dry, itchy, flaky skin feels uncomfortable. Fortunately, dry skin causes few long-term problems. Although it is typically a chronic condition, it is very manageable. Talk to your healthcare provider about how to prevent and soothe dry skin. If other conditions, like eczema, cause dry skin, your healthcare provider can prescribe medications and offer tips to treat the problem.

Read more:
Dry Skin: Eczema, Itchy Skin, Causes, Treatments, Relief, Types

For people with eczema, the condition is more than a painful, red, or inflamed skin condition. Its a recurringdisease that is linked to an overactiveimmune system and can be It can be triggered by stress, allergic reactions, foods or other unknown factors. Sufferers not only live withuncomfortable, unsightly, and unwanted red or scaly skin patches, but the knowledge that if can return anytime, disrupting sleep and sidetracking plans.

More than 31 million Americans have some form of eczema research estimates about 20 percent of children and 5 percent of adults. It can range in severity, from very mild to severe. For some people with eczema, food can trigger inflammation, but it can also be a way to avoid it and the resulting symptoms. Following an eczema diet of foods to avoid and foods to include is a well-knownway to help keep inflammation at bay.

Eczema is an umbrella term that includes a number of inflammatory skin conditions, says Amy Kimberlain, RDN, Academy Media Spokesperson. Eczema produces very dry, itchy skin and can even lead to rashes, scaly patches, blisters, and skin infections on different parts of the body, Kimberlain explains. There are seven different types of eczema, the most common is atopic dermatitis Flare-up is the term commonly used to describe a case of worsened symptoms. When they improve or clear up, it may be referred to as a period of remission.

Eczema is not contagious, so theres no danger of catching it from someone else. The cause is not known because, like most health conditions, its quite complex. Some research suggests genetics may play a role, but the root of the condition is the bodys inflammatory response to what is known as a trigger, which is an irritant or allergen that may come from outside the body or internally. The bodys response to the trigger shows itself as a flare-up.

Triggers can be anything like the soap or shampoo you use, to laundry detergent or perfume, any environmental factors like pollen, dust mites, and even changes in the weather, as well as stress, and what some think to be part of their issues food, says Kimberlain. For some people, eczema flare-ups are triggered by allergens in certain foods, which cause the bodys immune system to react and cause inflammation.

According to research, between 20 percent and 80 percent of people with eczema also have some sort of food allergy, so its important to be checked for any food allergies, either by blood test or skin test, says Kimberlain.Foods to Avoid

When a person with eczema eats food theyre allergic to, it prompts an immune response that causes inflammation that may trigger or worsen a flare-up. Its important to work on identifying foods that are causing allergic reactions, says Libby Mills, MS, RD, LDN, FAND, National Spokesperson for the Academy ofNutrition and Dietetics.

This means reading food ingredient labels. Some food allergens are called out as such, Mills explains, but many go by different names, so youve got to do your research so you know what to look for. Dont forget to ask about ingredients and how foods are prepared when youre eating out, says Mills. Some of the most common foods and food allergens associated with eczema flare-ups include:

Any food that causes inflammation should be avoided. This doesnt have to be due to an allergy or even a sensitivity, though it can be. Inflammatory foods include those made with refined grains, refined carbs, and added sugarsmore than likely ultra-processed packaged foods.

These foods have been shown to increase the likelihood of elevatedblood sugar, which spikes inflammation. These foods may prompt inflammation, which is linked to chronic disease, in one person, but not in another, Mills explains. So it makes sense to avoid, or at least limit, how much you eat.

Eating foods that fight inflammation can help avoid eczema flare-ups or improve symptoms. A plant-based eating pattern of whole or minimally processed foods makes it simple. Kimberlain suggests a few foods shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help:

When looking to fight and manage eczema, its essential that we look at skin health, says Mills. Our skin is, after all, our largest organ, made up of hundreds of millions of cells. Skin cells create a barrier between the inside and the outside world, she says.

Along with good hydration (Mills recommends about 9 cups of water for women and 12.5 for men, allowing for the 2 cups or so that come from food.), Mills suggests foods that help protect that barrier, such as those rich in:

Aim for about 1.5 cups of fruit and 2 cups of vegetables a day, though it will vary per person, this is a good start, she says. Proteinplays an important role in wound healing, and is essential in the return from cracked, broken, and blistered skin to healthy skin.

Many people think theyre getting enough protein yet theyre not. The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for protein is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight. Multiply your weight in pounds by 0.36 for the recommended daily grams of protein per day.

They should also focus on avoiding those that trigger it to help relieve eczema symptoms. Dietitians Kimberlain and Mills agree that it really is a simple approach that goes back to the basics: aim to eat a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, including whole grains, nuts and seeds, legumes and beans, and cook with herbs and spices.

For more expert advice, visit The Beet's Health & Nutrition category.

Read this article:
Foods to Eat and Foods to Avoid If You Have Eczema - The Beet

If you have eczema, you know what its like that frustrating struggle to catch some ZZZs.

The problem is at once physical and emotional. When my eczema is flared, nighttime often fills me with anxiety, says Nicola Johnston, a digital content creator who lives in Carlisle, England, near the border of Scotland. I have experienced nights in so much pain that I cannot sleep, and Ive scratched so hard that my sheets were covered in blood. This is why Ive worked to establish a good evening routine that will allow me to have a comfortable nights sleep and get the rest that my body needs.

But that rest can be elusive when youre tormented by itching, flaky skin, raised red rashes, cuts, skin tightness, the symptoms listed by Elise Loubatieres, a London-based editor and beauty influencer. In many patients, eczema is itchiest at night, sometimes due to a lack of time for self-care earlier in the day. Natalie Findley, a holistic chef from Whistler, British Columbia, has had a similar experience. Nighttime flare-ups taught me that something wasnt working, she says. Not getting enough sleep was not doing me any good.

If you want to turn down eczema flare-ups, finding out what works best for you calls for trial and error. But it also helps to get advice from people who understand firsthand what youre going through. Here, three women whove been there offer tips on how to prepare for bed, get as comfy as possible, deal with symptoms, and reset your emotions in the morning.

When it comes to preparing for bed, Findley favors consistency. I try to keep my routine the same each night, she says. Before doing anything, she sets an intention to sleep better. From there, Findley likes to cleanse and moisturize my skin, drink some herbal tea, do some journaling, read, express gratitude, and then I am in bed by 10 p.m.

An equally firm believer in the step-by-step approach, Johnston focuses first and foremost on comfort. I start my bedtime routine by having a lukewarm bath to soothe my skin, if my skin is feeling particularly flared, she says. I then apply an emollient-based product that is going to lock in moisture and be slowly absorbed through the night. I put on lightweight satin nightwear that keeps me cool. In making up my bed, I personally prefer a silk pillow, as this is gentler on my facial eczema and doesnt absorb any product I apply to my face like a cotton material would.

Loubatieres scrupulously preps her skin and takes medication to prevent symptoms later. I have been prescribed antihistamines to help with the itching, she explains. I also make sure that I apply emollients to my skin liberally and frequently in the hour leading up to bedtime.

To Findley, the choice of bedding fabric is less important than the way its washed. I dont use any particular kind of sheets to relieve my eczema, but I use natural and clean laundry detergents. she says. Even though many regular products claim to be clean, they use a lot of harmful chemicals and ingredients in detergents that aggravate eczema and your overall health. I use detergents that are hypoallergenic and without any fragrances. My favorite laundry detergent is Tru Earth. Her bedside companion is also natural and gentle: If I need some relief, I always use calendula and comfrey-based salve, with some shea butter, to calm the itchiness and dry skin.

Johnston has an unusual trick for dealing with one of eczemas side effects a trick that involves a trip to the nail salon. A great tip I have found is having acrylic gel manicures, she notes. It means that your nail itself becomes thicker and doesnt break your skin when youre scratching in the night. This has been a great help with healing my eczema.

Aware that overheating can bring on eczema, Loubatieres takes a proactive approach. I try to stay cool using a stand-alone fan, and I also use a handheld fan to pinpoint itchy areas for some relief, she says. I ensure that my sheets and sleepwear are either 100% cotton or silk to reduce irritation. I also have eczema gloves and Cosi Care [aka safe scratchers], which are itching tools that allow you to satisfy an itch without causing damage.

Whenever she begins to feel itchy, Findley does simple breathing exercises to calm her body. I close my eyes, breathe in slowly and count to five, and hold for 2 seconds, then breathe out slowly and count to seven. Or I will just breathe in slowly until my chest and belly are full with air, hold for a few seconds, and breathe out slowly all the way. I repeat this multiple times until Im relaxed. I also imagine myself sinking into my pillow as I breathe out, and it relaxes me and my muscles until I finally fall asleep.

Johnston tries to nap during the day whenever possible. That way, in the event of a nighttime flare-up, shes not completely exhausted the next day, And the extra rest is also calming. By keeping my daytime stress levels to a minimum, she says, flare-ups become less likely.

As Loubatieres sees it, youve lost the battle when you give in to the urge to itch. At night I tend to get what I call scratch attacks, where I uncontrollably and incessantly scratch despite breaking skin and causing myself pain, she says. It feels very satisfying in the moment and provides relief from that bone-deep itching sensation. But I try to get up and distract myself in some way. If I stay in bed and dont keep my hands busy, Im more likely to indulge in a scratch. Indeed, taking up a hobby drawing, knitting, playing guitar, anything that involves using your hands can be an ideal diversion between a flare-up and the welcome moment when you feel really sleepy.

In the light of day, after successfully dealing with her nighttime flare-ups, Findley developed a fresh philosophy. I made it a habit to clean up my diet and reduce stress and anxiety with meditation, journaling, and sleep hygiene. To treat the root cause of my issue, I switched to a plant-based diet. I also cut out dairy, as its pretty inflammatory. I drink a lot of water each day. Now my eczema has cleared up! I find that fueling your body with the proper nutrients will support your immune system, therefore improving your eczema.

Johnston emphasizes the importance of knowing your true self. Often, it feels like you are your eczema, like its a defining characteristic, she says. Its important to learn that your value comes from you and not your skin. I also learned to be kind to my skin. Not looking at it with hatred and resentment, but to see my eczema as a friend that was telling me there is an imbalance somewhere that I need to put right. Its really important to listen to your body and notice your triggers.

Whatever strategies you adopt, Loubatieres says, you should treat yourself with compassion. After a scratch attack, I personally get a huge amount of guilt, she admits. I think Ive caused my skin a lot ofharm. However, I have to remind myself that its a condition that I cannot control. Skin eventually heals. Her best advice for getting a good nights sleep: Dont be so hard on yourself.

Read original article here

See the rest here:
3 Women With Eczema Describe the Ways They Combat Nighttime Flare-Ups - Verve Times

A loving mother wants, above all else, good health for her child. Imagine, then, the emotional impact of discovering that your baby has eczema, of wishing more than anything to take away the itching and irritation. And imagine the worry when a woman with eczema becomes pregnant. The what-ifs are huge.

Fortunately, there is excellent information and inspiration to help a woman in either situation. Here, two moms reveal the great lengths they went to in their determination to give their children relief and good health.

Meghan Elliott, who lives in Kankakee, Illinois, is a busy mother of two: Nora, 4, and Charlie, 1. After the shock of finding that Charlie had eczema from birth, Elliott embarked on a quest to do everything she could to help him. She researched his needs, and then made sure the health system met them.

Charlie had rough, scaly, bumpy skin, says Elliott, an operations manager for the marketing company Mayhill Moon. At first, the inflammation was mostly on his cheeks and thighs, but it later began to develop on his elbows. My sons pediatrician officially diagnosed him with moderate to severe eczema and suggested we take him to a pediatric dermatologist. Not a bad idea, but she and Charlie would have to spend months on a waiting list, which Elliott found extremely frustrating.

Thats when she set out to learn as much as possible about Charlies condition. One thing that struck her was that many children with eczema have moderate to severe food allergies. Seeing how long it took to get referred to a pediatric dermatologist, I then took it upon myself to call a pediatric allergist. Thankfully, they got him in fairly quickly, and we found out that Charlie is severely allergic to all forms of eggs and also has a lactose intolerance.

This was a watershed moment. What we do now is lather his cheeks and chin with CeraVe Healing Ointment before and after he eats so as to not irritate his skin, she says. The ointment helps act like a barrier to any food that could cause a flare-up.

Elliott carefully analyzed every aspect of Charlies routine to give him relief in a variety of ways. One thing that has helped my son is giving him a bath every night, she says. I thought this would dry him out even more, but our dermatologist said a quick 5- to 10-minute lukewarm bath after which we pat him dry and immediately lotion him up will keep all the moisture in his skin. We use CeraVe lotion, shampoo, and body wash during his bath times. We also apply CeraVe healing ointment on his cheeks throughout the day to keep moisture locked in. Charlie was also prescribed two topical ointments to use as needed as well as an oral medication to help when he gets really itchy.

To help him sleep, Elliott relies on the most gentle bedding. We use bamboo crib sheets, and they are very breathable when we use a flannel crib sheet, his cheeks are very irritated when he wakes up, she says. We also do a lot of bamboo clothing. He can wear cotton clothing, too, but we definitely stay away from any wool or polyester. Charlie is now doing well. We have a schedule of doctor follow-ups every 3 to 6 months, and he is doing so much better compared to where we were a year ago.

The emotional toll of worry and constant care is considerable, however. Parenting a child with eczema and food allergies is exhausting and frustrating, she says. Still, push for help in getting your child relief. My advice for other parents also going through this is to always be your childs advocate. They cant advocate for themselves, so it is our responsibility to do that for them.

Karen Fischer is an award-winning nutritionist and author who lives and works on Australias Gold Coast. Dedicated to helping people with eczema through her online support network, shes the owner of Skin Friend, a skin care company. Her own story and that of her daughter Ayva, now 22 is the reason she has made eczema relief her work and passion.

I have lived the pain of head-to-toe eczema, Fischer explains. I have health practitioner qualifications, but I did not truly understand eczema until I lived it.

Before becoming pregnant with Ayva, Fischer found herself dealing with the skin condition. My eczema started off as a tiny patch, she recalls. After a bout of work stress, it suddenly spread to my entire body. Every time I ate, it would spread. Some nights the itch was so bad I could not sleep. I had to constantly wash my sheets, I could not eat out with friends, I was socially isolated. No one understood, and I spent a lot of time at home crying.

Noticing the link between food and her flare-ups, Fischer took a close look at what she ate. Your skin is literally made from the foods you eat, so it made sense to change my diet, she says. Genetics play a role, but I believe that eating healthy, low-chemical foods can compensate for these genetic defects. Identifying which foods seemed to trigger her eczema and eliminating them helped Fischer get better.

Her pregnancy, fortunately, proved uneventful. I had suffered from hand dermatitis before I became pregnant, she says. With healthy eating, it soon went away, so I had a rash-free pregnancy. However, Ayva developed eczema 2 weeks after she was born. Fischer was devastated to see Ayva suffer, and the baby had difficulty sleeping, but it didnt occur to the new mom right away that she could approach her daughters skin condition the same way she had managed her own. I thought eczema was a genetic condition and there was nothing I could do, so I used topical steroids to unsuccessfully treat her eczema, she recalls.

Then, a breakthrough: A nurse caring for Ayva told me about food sensitivities, and she set me on the path that led to my daughters eczema clearing up. Nutritional biochemistry was my favorite subject at university, so I designed a diet specifically for Ayva based on the research I had read from various hospital allergy units. Ayvas skin cleared up, and we gradually expanded her diet. The right foods can make your childs body resilient.

Today both mother and daughter are happy and healthy. Eczema is a complicated skin disorder and everyone is quick to give you advice, Fischer says and then offers up some advice of her own. As she sees it, Healthy eating is the long-term, permanent solution.

Read original article here

See the original post here:
The Challenges of Parenting a Child With Eczema - Verve Times

People have flocked to honey since, like, the dawn of recorded medicine. But whats so special about manuka honey?

This honey is made from the pollen of the manuka tree found in Australia in New Zealand. The tree has a swarm of skin-nourishing properties (more on that below) that get passed along from the bee-harvested pollen to the honey.

Peep the manuka trees magical skin-nourishing properties.

Remember when everything in the beauty aisle was infused with tea tree oil? Folks stan the stuff because it fights off acne-causing bacteria. Well, manuka oil works similarly.

Research actually shows that oil from manuka trees might be more antibacterial than tea tree oil. A manuka honey mask or wash could give your skin the clean sweep of your life. Just imagine the bacteria being sucked into the honeys sticky, deadly embrace.

Bottom line: Manuka honey might be your new BFF in the fight against zits.

People with eczema will tell you just how irritating it can be to have dry, itchy skin that you must not scratch . But its tempting. So tempting.

Manuka honey to the rescue! This sweet stuff is a humectant, meaning that it moisturizes so that your skin can catch a break.

A tiny study of people with eczema found that applying manuka honey to inflamed areas led to symptom improvement. Even better? They still showed improvements a year later. We need more research to prove these findings, but its a start.

Red, swollen skin is no match for manuka! This honey has inflammatory properties to help fight inflammation from acne, eczema, and more.

In the midst of a breakout? Cash in on this sweet benefit by slapping on a manuka honey mask, turning on your favorite show, and saying goodbye to unsightly, irritated skin.

Manuka honey contains antioxidants, which squash pesky free radicals.

Free radicals arent those scary people you saw on the news, BTW. Theyre unstable atoms that can lead to premature aging and lack of elasticity.

Using manuka honey to slow free radicals could keep your skin looking fresher and younger for longer. Fewer wrinkles and age spots? Oh honey, youre just too good to us!

Manuka honey sounding wondrous enough yet? Theres more!

Aside from helping to clean fresh wounds (remember those antibac properties?), burns, or even areas affected by psoriasis, manuka honey has been known to help fade scars.

More research is needed to confirm this manuka honey benefit for skin. Keep your fingers crossed!

Go here to see the original:
Manuka Honey Benefits for Skin: Benefits, Masks, and More - Greatist