Eczema is characterized by an alternation of inflammatory flare-ups, during which follow one another oozing, then scabs, and more or less long periods of remission with dry and irritable skin. The lesions, which are mainly located at the level of the folds (elbows, knees), on the face and in the neck, are very itchy and can “lichenify”. The skin thickens and then becomes checkered, increasing dryness and itching. The psychological impact is significant, especially when the lesions affect the face.
Good everyday gestures
Wash with surgras gels (without soap) and do not stay too long in the water. Do not use products containing perfume or alcohol, which are drying and pose a risk of allergy.
Apply a moisturizer high tolerance (containing few ingredients) in a thick layer at least once a day, and always after washing. It is important to lubricate the skin, which lacks lipids and water, to restore the skin barrier. By softening the horny layer, we restore suppleness to the skin.
Dealing with stress, because it promotes the crisis and maintains the problem, in particular through relaxation techniques, behavioral therapy. Finding alternatives to scratching, ie displacing the urge to scratch, is also part of the strategies. We can also use a “transitional object”, which we will scratch, and which can help divert attention.
The effects of a Spa treatment are very beneficial with a reduction in itching and inflammation, an improvement in epidermal renewal and skin flora. “Studies have shown that a thermal water cure eliminates pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, and restores good quality flora, which will prevent microbes from attaching themselves to it”, specifies Dr Didier Guerrero. , consultant dermatologist at the Avène spa resort. It is a complementary treatment to drug treatment. In some cases, the cure will even make it possible to significantly reduce drug dependence for long periods.
Rely on conventional treatments
For medium-intensity eczema, during outbreaks, a corticosteroid-based cream is prescribed for a few days, in combination with a moisturizer.
As an alternative to treatment with topical corticosteroids, immunomodulators (or immunosuppressants) in the form of a cream are prescribed. They are useful when corticosteroid therapy is not sufficient to stop the outbreak or when this treatment has been prescribed over a long period of time resulting in thinning of the skin. This cream, which is applied once a day, limits inflammation, reduces the pruritus and skin irritation.
In severe and stubborn forms of eczema, and when the attacks are not “controlled” by local treatments, systemic treatment with immunosuppressants (Ciclosporine) or immunomodulators (Methotrexate) can be started in the hospital. .
Alternative medicine is also good
Eczema requires stimulation of the toxin-eliminating organs (liver, kidneys, skin), management of the allergic and inflammatory terrain and consideration of stress.
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Phyto side: mother tinctures of Ribes nigrum (blackcurrant) and Rosa canina (rosehip), 50 drops of each twice a day for two weeks. To renew if necessary.
Home side : Nux Vomica 5 CH facilitates elimination, three pellets twice a day for a seven-day cure, to be repeated.
Aroma side:rosemary essential oil (Rosmarinus officinalis, 1.8 cineole) and Roman chamomile essential oil (Chamaemelum nobile). These two essential oils can be taken orally, 1 drop of each, three times a day, as a ten-day cure to renew and/or 5 drops of each in 1/2 teaspoon of almond vegetable oil sweet or Macadamia, applied twice a day on the eczema, in cure of ten days, to renew.
Orally, in case of stress, take advantage of the virtues of the essential oil of petit grain bigarade (Citrus aurantium). 2 drops on a support, in ½ tablespoon of honey or jam or in an empty capsule to fill and swallow (in pharmacies), three times a day, for one or two days are enough to bring you back to calm. Another solution, an application directly on the skin, by putting one or two drops on the wrist, for a calming effect for an hour and a half.
