Treatments for eczema have come a long way in recent times

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  Posted By
  Victoria Stephens

• Published On
  Sat, June 16

• Reading Time
  4 Minutes

Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a condition that affects the skin. It is characterized by dry patches, oozing blisters, redness, and itching. Eczema is more prevalent in children less than two years old, and many outgrow it over time; however, some do continue to experience eczema as adults.

Different Types Of Eczema

Eczema can sometimes feel like a frustratingly vague term, covering a range of skin conditions with varying sensitivity levels and symptoms. However, this also means that different types of eczema may respond better to certain treatments than others. For instance, those who suffer from dry skin in addition to itching and patches of cracked or hardened skin may want to consider trying specific eczema creams designed for dryness. These creams often contain moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or ceramides to hydrate the skin and reduce inflammation. It's important to note that every individual's skin is unique, so it may take some trial and error before finding the most effective cream for your eczema symptoms. In addition, be sure to consult a dermatologist for expert advice on managing your specific type of eczema. With the right support and treatment, you can find relief from dryness and other uncomfortable symptoms.

Foods To Avoid

1. Dairy Products

Many parents may wonder whether they should eliminate dairy from their child's diet, as dairy is such a common trigger for eczema flare-ups. If a young child with eczema is having difficulty tolerating cow's milk, it may be worth discussing options with their doctor or a nutritionist. However, it is important to remember the importance of dairy in a child's diet. Milk helps build strong bones and teeth, and it also provides essential vitamins and minerals like calcium and vitamin D. In fact, prematurely cutting dairy out of your child's diet could result in deficiencies in these important nutrients. The key is to find alternative sources of these nutrients if necessary, rather than removing all dairy without consulting a healthcare professional first. Ultimately, every child's needs are different - listen to your doctor's recommendations and speak with them about the potential benefits and drawbacks of eliminating dairy from your child's diet.

2. Citrus fruits

When it comes to providing vitamin C, nothing beats fresh citrus fruits. But for some individuals, enjoying a juicy orange or grapefruit can come at the cost of eczema flare-ups. The culprit is Balsam of Peru, an allergen present in citrus fruits that can worsen symptoms of eczema. Avoiding these fruits may seem like a small sacrifice, but it can have significant benefits for those with sensitive skin. Fortunately, there are still plenty of ways to get a daily dose of vitamin C without turning to citrus fruits. Veggies like bell peppers and broccoli, as well as fortified foods like breakfast cereals and juices, make excellent alternatives for those who need to steer clear of Balsam of Peru. So while citrus may be tasty and convenient, it's important to keep in mind that they may not work for everyone. By exploring alternative sources of vitamin C, we can support our overall health without triggering unpleasant symptoms.

3. Soy

If you suffer from eczema, soy products may be a trigger to watch out for. While tasty and versatile, research suggests that consuming soy can worsen symptoms in some individuals. This means more than just avoiding obvious culprits like edamame and tofu- you also need to check labels for hidden sources of soy, such as soy milk in coffee drinks and soy sauce in salad dressings. Many processed foods also contain textured vegetable protein or other forms of soy. Building awareness about the potential impact of this ingredient on eczema can help you make informed choices and reduce flare-ups.

4. Tomato

If you've found that your eczema flares up after consuming tomatoes, it may be worth trying a tomato-free diet for a while to see if there is an improvement in your symptoms. It's also important to be aware of hidden sources of tomato, such as ketchup, curry sauce, pasta sauce, and Bolognese.