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Eczema: Avoid this daily activity to slash flare-up risk
Express.co.uk The charity advises taking action to minimise contact with things that cause your eczema to flare-up. It recommends keeping a diary recording what your skin reacts to, so you know what to avoid. “Working out your triggers can be a difficult process as … |
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Dealing with eczema? These are the foods you should be eating—and the ones to avoid – Well+Good
Well+Good |
Dealing with eczema? These are the foods you should be eating—and the ones to avoid
Well+Good In Fischer's experience, the key to healing an inflammatory skin condition like eczema lies in the liver. “Your liver is supposed to deactivate chemicals in your body, so if your liver's not working at 100 percent, that's when things like eczema can … |
What Causes Psoriasis to Flare Up? Avoid the Top 10 Triggers
Psoriasis is a skin condition that is caused either by the genetic makeup of an individual or due to some problem with the body’s immune system. The condition occurs when the T cells – the white blood cells – become active and instead of attacking an infection attack the skin cells. This leads to dry, scaly patches on the skin that may or may not bleed.
Although the main cause of the disease is not quite certain to date, it is pertinent to know what the major triggers are. If you know which triggers to avoid, you can have better control your psoriasis flare up. This week, we takes a look at what causes psoriasis to flare up. Here are a few ideas:
1. Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Since the research started on the subject, it was found that people with psoriasis, usually had a higher alcohol consumption rate. In fact, alcohol doesn’t just act as a trigger, but can also prolong the treatment of the disease.
So, for those suffering from psoriasis, limiting alcohol intake or quitting the habit is the best thing to do.
2. Genetics
Many believe genes to be the major cause of psoriasis. However, the disease has to be set off by some other factor alongside the genetics. Bear in mind, not everyone who has a family history of the disease is likely to develop it at some point in their lives.
Read More: 9 Natural Remedies for Psoriasis You Should Try
3. Stress
Just as it is the leading cause of hundreds of other diseases, stress is a major cause of psoriasis. In fact, it doesn’t just cause the disease, often it makes it much worse than it really should be.
To keep things under control, here are some techniques that’ll help you bring the stress levels down.
For children, try these stress relieving techniques: 8 Ways to Relieve Stress in Children.
4. Smoking
Smoking is known to worsen the symptoms of psoriasis. The tobacco raises the chances of your developing the condition. Then, the more you smoke, the more psoriasis breaks out.
It is a good lifestyle decision for those suffering from psoriasis to quit smoking.
5. Food
Although the effect of the type of food you eat on the disease is not completely established yet. However, you may want to avoid the following in case you have developed psoriasis:
- Gluten
- Whole Milk
- Fatty foods
- Refined sugar
- Citrus fruits
- Processed food
ILW Recommends: Try an Elimination Diet to see what foods trigger your psoriasis!
6. Skin Injuries
Anything that causes trauma to the skin can be a major trigger for the outbreak of psoriasis. Things like tattoos, scratches, bug bites, cuts, sunburn and even vaccines may cause a trauma and lead to the disease.
So make sure to protect your skin, and to cover your body properly.
7. Steroids and Other Medication
There are some medicines that can meddle with your body’s immune system and lead to psoriasis. Some of the medicines that may cause an outbreak or flare up include steroids, beta-blockers, non-steroidal Indomethacin, lithium and even malarial treatment pills.
8. Infections
Some types of infections, like the Streptococcal pharyngitis – infection of the throat – or Candida Albicans – thrush or yeast infection – can also lead to the spread of psoriasis. It is better to treat infections as quickly as possible.
9. Hormonal Changes
Hormones play a very important role in maintaining the natural balance of the body. At any point when there’s a misbalance, your body is at risk of psoriasis and with many other conditions. So, usually at the time of puberty or menopause, you may experience a flare-up or spread of the patches.
10. Weather Conditions
Often psoriasis can spread as an irritable response to weather extremities. The harsh cold weather can cause dryness, itching, and redness. Similarly, sunburn can also lead to skin damage and hence, psoriasis.
It is better to avoid outdoor activities if the weather is extreme.
Last Thoughts
The condition can range from mild to severe depending on the symptoms. While minor psoriasis is common and doesn’t do long-term damage, severe psoriasis requires immediate medical intervention and treatment.
ILW Recommends: Natural Skincare Treatments for Psoriasis
Prevention is always the best cure – once you’ve learned about the triggers, it is easier to avoid them in order to stay safe and healthy. Psoriasis may look scary and a condition that can hurt you physically and psychologically, but understanding your skin, the disease, common triggers, and how to avoid them can help you control your condition.
What causes your psoriasis to flare up? We want to hear about it in our comments below!
Author Bio
Hello, I’m Jean, a passionate health enthusiast and personal trainer. After diagnosed with psoriasis in 2002 and struggling to keep it under control, I decided to write about my personal experiences and issues that relate to psoriasis in 2007. Through my writing, I hope to provide answers to questions about this disease and how it can be controlled.
The post What Causes Psoriasis to Flare Up? Avoid the Top 10 Triggers appeared first on itchylittleworld.com.
How to avoid litigation associated with fillers
Antibiotic resistance in acne: Avoid monotherapy
A recent review supports AAD and EADV calls to limit antibiotic use in acne, and to further study the issue of antimicrobial resistance.
Dermatology Times – Dermatology
13 Skincare Ingredients & Eczema Irritants You NEED to Avoid Right Now
Another great post from itchylittleworld.com – Natural remedies for eczema to soothe your itchy little world..
If you’re suffering from any skin condition, we’re sure you’ve tried countless treatments to provide some type of relief. However, you should know that there are many skincare ingredients that can make skin conditions like acne and rosacea even worse. And we know they are very often eczema irritants, so they are very important to highlight.
This week, we take a look at the top 13 skincare ingredients you should avoid in your daily regimen – this is most important for anyone with a skin condition, but its good advice for healthy skin too.
All skincare we recommend on this blog ALWAYS avoids the following 13 chemicals.
Please keep in mind I am in no way a medical professional. If you’re experiencing severe eczema or have a topical infection, it is always best to seek medical advice immediately.
Which Skincare Ingredients to Avoid
Triclosan
This active ingredient can be found in literally any type of anti-bacterial product such as deodorants, cleansers, and hand sanitizers. There have been studies that show that this ingredient can pass through skin and interfere with hormone function.
Not only is it practically poison for our bodies, but it’s also extremely toxic to the environment [1].
Parabens
You’ve probably heard this label thrown around a lot lately. Parabens are a class of preservatives that are included in cosmetics and pharmaceutical products. Not many people know how to recognize them in products due to the list of names they go by such as methylparaben, ethylparaben, n-propylparaben and many others that for the most part all end in “paraben.”
You can mostly find Parabens in moisturizer, lipstick, foundation, concealer, eye makeup and makeup removers.
Phthalates
Similar to parabens, there is a very long list of names these chemicals go by. Essentially they are used in plastics, but are also used in personal care products to make fragrances last longer.
Fragrance or Perfume or Parfum
Really, unless it says essential oil, you’re looking at an artificial and chemical additive. They are always seen in products that have a scent. This is a very common eczema irritant and should ALWAYS be avoided when you’re dealing with dermatitis.
Siloxanes
These silicone-based compounds are seen often in cosmetics to soften, smooth and moisten skin. They also make hair products dry quickly and deodorant creams slide on more easily. You easily find them in shampoos, and body or facial creams.
Similar to Triclosan, these compounds have been shows to be toxic for humans, as well as the environment. In fact it can possibly impair human fertility [1].
PEGS
These chemicals are actually petroleum-based and are widely used in cosmetics as thickeners, softeners and moisture-carriers. Interestingly enough, they are also used in pharmaceutical laxatives.
Although all these skincare ingredients should be avoided, it looks like PEGS are actually unsafe for damaged skin. It can actually cause irritation and systemic toxicity [2].
PEGS commonly go by the name Oxynol, Ammonium laureth sulfate, as well as all ingredients that have “eth” in the name.
Oxybenzone
This is the #1 chemical that is used in sunscreens. It actually is probably one of the most toxic ingredients in skin care products and according to The Environmental Working Group it is what skin allergies react to most [3].
To avoid this one, chose a zinc based sunblock instead of a sunscreen. Read more about that in our Summer Eczema Care Guide.
Diethanolamine, Monoethanolamine, Triethanolamine (DEAs)
Most products that are either creamy or sudsy like soaps, cleaners, and shampoos will contain these harmful ingredients.
Ever wondered how your eyes get irritated by shampoo or certain soaps, often times its due to DEAs! The European Union has actually classified DEA as harmful and can cause serious damage to one’s health from prolonged exposure [1].
P-Phenylenediamine (PPD)
This chemical is often found in hair dyes. In fact, it’s very difficult to find conventional hair dyes that don’t contain this ingredient. This chemical can cause allergic reactions to those with already sensitive skin or with skin conditions.
But how bad is it for you? Well let’s put it this way. It’s used in rubber chemicals, and textile dyes and pigments. Gross!
DMDM Formaldehyde
This ingredient is used extensively in a wide range of cosmetics such as nail polish, hair products, deodorants and so much more.
If you didn’t already know, formaldehyde is already classified as a human carcinogen that can cause cancer. And it’s an embalming fluid, need I say more?
Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) and Butylated Hdroxytoluene (BHT)
These chemicals are synthetic antioxidants that are used in preservatives for lipsticks, moisturizers and many other cosmetics. They are actually used in food as well.
Similarly to other harmful ingredients listed, it mimics estrogen and creates hormonal disruptors.
Citronella
This substance is also known as methyleugenol.
Studies have shown that when this substance has been administered internally to mice, it has cause tumors to appear in multiple sites. In fact, it is so toxic, Health Canada has made sure to ban it from cosmetics.
Petrolatum
You already know what petroleum jelly is! It’s been used by many over the years as a barrier to lock in moisture, as well as added to hair products to make hair shine.
However, this substance can actually be contaminated with another chemical know as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Exposure to both these harmful chemicals combined is associated with cancer. The European Union actually classifies petrolatum as a carcinogen and restricts its use in cosmetics [1].
So…What Now?
If you’re feeling somewhat depressed after reading this article or thinking you might have to clean out your entire cosmetic cabinet, don’t fear. It’s extremely difficult to avoid all these chemicals in our daily lives, but small steps are always better than none at all!
You can start by just replacing one thing like a moisturizer. And don’t believe the hype – you can use a good natural moisturizer on every part of your body, even your face and around the eyes. A balm like Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream would be our suggestion for all over moisture.
If you’re ready to find a good source for non-toxic, chemical free, gentle skincare, free of eczema irritants, then we recommend The Eczema Company where you can find natural treatments for eczema as well as eczema clothing.
Do you try to avoid these skincare ingredients and eczema irritants?
How did you first learn about these chemicals?
How did you transition to all natural products?
Let us know in the comments below!
Bio: Laura Dolgy is a contributor and content developer for It’s An Itchy Little World. She is in no way a medical professional. Her comments, suggestions, and reflections are not intended to replace any medical advice. Always seek the help of a medical professional before undertaking any diet or lifestyle changes. Please see It’s An Itchy Little World’s disclaimer for information about affiliate links and more.
Sources
- European Commission. Regulation (EC) 1272/2008 , Annex VI, Table 3.2. Sep 2009. http://ecb.jrc.ec.europa.eu/classification-labelling
- Lanigan, RS (CIR Expert Panel). “Final report on the safety assessment of PPG-11 and PPG-15 stearyl ethers.” Int J Toxicol.20 Suppl 4 (2001):13-26
- The Trouble with Ingredients in Sunscreens. The Environmental Working Group. https://www.ewg.org/sunscreen/report/the-trouble-with-sunscreen-chemicals/#.WfvHVBNSxTY
13 Skincare Ingredients & Eczema Irritants You NEED to Avoid Right Now appeared first on itchylittleworld.com. Come read more about natural remedies for eczema!
Acne: What is Making You Break Out & How to Avoid It
Dr. Norris has been practicing dermatology for over 20 years and has seen her fair share of skin problems. From common conditions like acne and rosacea to rare conditions like Lupus and Leprosy. When it comes to treating your acne and preventing your next breakout she is the expert that you can trust! While some tips work for most skin types there are a few tips that are especially helpful for those with extremely dry or oily skin; so stick with us while we cover what is the best for your skin type.
Sometimes we think we are doing all of the right things: washing our face, avoiding certain lotions, or using the product that our favorite celebrity says they cannot live without, but what you might not know is how important diet is when it comes to the skin. According to the AAD, studies suggest that eating high glycemic foods such as bread, potatoes, candies, and desserts may cause or worsen acne breakouts. Along with those sweets and breads another thing to avoid is dairy. Dr. Norris has found that dairy products, especially nonfat milk, can actually worsen acne and cause more breakouts on your face. Minimizing these foods and drinks will help to keep your skin clear.
In terms of washing the facial skin (and the rest of your body), be sure you are not over-washing. Dr. Norris suggests washing with a simple pH balanced facial cleanser only once a day. She says that you should avoid harsh soaps and gritty face washes that have beads or exfoliating properties. Your skin naturally exfoliates and using products that claim to exfoliate may actually cause irritation and inflammation of the skin which could lead to darkening of the skin and even scarring if the acne is severe.
When moisturizing your face, steer clear of creamy or heavy moisturizers as they may clog pores which can lead to more acne. If you have acne, you do not need a moisturizer as your skin has its own natural oil. Cream based and lotion based sunscreens may also worsen acne. Get your skin under control and keep it looking its best!
Links for References:
How to Avoid Asthma Triggers Such As Foods and Pollen
Food is not a common asthma trigger but asthma symptoms can occur as part of an allergic reaction to certain foods. Whole nuts should not be given in any case to pre-school age children because of the risk of them choking, but you should also remember that children with atopic conditions are more vulnerable to nut allergies.
Food manufacturers now label all foods containing nuts, but if you are buying unlabelled foods or eating out, ask about the ingredients. Artificial colorings and additives are also triggers, so try to include as many natural, unprocessed foods as possible in your child’s diet.
If you suspect that certain sweets or fizzy drinks are causing attacks, avoid them. This will not only help you decide whether there is a problem, but also limit your child’s intake of junk food.
Dairy products are often connected with allergies, especially eczema, but you should always ask your doctor’s advice before removing them from a child’s diet. Pollen is very hard to avoid during summer months. The worst time is early summer when so many plants are in flower.
Rain literally washes pollen away, so the pollen count is highest during a dry spell and you may have to be extra vigilant at this time. Get into the habit of finding out about the daily pollen count, and then plan your child’s activities accordingly.
Encourage him to play outside only early in the morning or just before bed when the pollen count is lower. Resist the temptation to bring cur flowers inside the house. Open windows and doors to air the house early in the morning and then keep them closed for the rest of the day.
Do not hang clothes outside to dry or bedding to air when the pollen count is high. If your child reacts badly to pollen, ask his school if he can stay inside at times when there is a high pollen count and when the grass has just been cut. Remind him never to roll in grass, even when he sees his friends doing so.
The Author is an expert in article writing and has done a lot of research online and offline. Come visit his latest websites on Asthma Attack Treatment and Maclaren Double Stroller
Find More Atopic Dermatitis Articles
How to Avoid Catching Or Spreading a Rash to Another Person – Ways to Protect Yourself and Others
Not all rashes are contagious. For instance, eczema, food allergies, medication dermatitis and insect bites are generally not passed on to another person. However, there are certain rashes that can be spread including scabies mites rashes, fungal rashes, fever blisters and chicken pox. In addition, certain rashes can be spread to another part of your own body. This is why scratching a rash is discouraged. Of course scratching a rash can also lead to bacterial infections as well.
If you have a child in school, teach him or her to not ever touch someone’s sore, blister or rash. Kids enjoy showing something odd on their bodies to other kids. But this is not something that is a good idea to touch. A cold sore virus, fungal rash or pox can be caught by touching a blister in this manner. Kids are fearless often and interested in oddities. Teach them to avoid touching someone’s sore, bruise, cut, pimple or red skin patch.
Certain types of rashes, once treated are no longer contagious. For instance, after applying the perscription cream for scabies someone can return to school or work after 24 hours. Other rashes require healing from an infection or virus before returning to one’s place of employment or school. Good hygiene is important to avoid spreading or catching a rash. It is tempting to scratch one’s rash and this not only can cause certain rashes to spread to other people, but may also cause another eruption somewhere else on your body. Scabies can be spread to other parts of your body and herpes simplex virus 1 also can cause a breakout elsewhere on the body via touch or scratching.
Most school systems will send out a note when there is a problem of a communicable disease, but this is not always the case. Also people may be contagious before having their diagnosis. Also due to assuming that one’s rash is just a simple mosquito bite, a rash may be ignored for a week before consulting a physician.
Learn about common rashes and how to treat with traditional and holistic approaches. Stop by to read articles on School Rash problems as well as Types of Eczema to get informed.
Related Atopic Dermatitis Articles
Eczema Flare-Ups – What They Are and How to Avoid Them
Eczema is a chronic skin condition, also commonly known as atopic dermatitis. Sufferers often feel the constant need to itch the skin. This itching can lead to red rashes, blister-like sores that ooze, and scaly, rough patches of skin. The phrase “eczema flare-ups,” is used to describe outbreaks or episodes where the condition gets worse.
Those who suffer from eczema are often plagued with the skin condition for life, but there are ways to seek relief. Unfortunately, this relief can be short-term. Some individuals can go months without an eczema rash and wakeup one morning to have a significant outbreak. Although there is no way to cure eczema, there are steps you can take to avoid regular flare-ups.
Avoid Eczema Flare-Ups #1 – Find Your Trigger Factor
The phrase “trigger factor,” is often used to describe the onset of an eczema outbreak. Something triggers the skin. It is irritated and produces a reaction. There are different causes for flare-ups and outbreaks, but medical professional have developed a list of common factors. They include dairy products, chemical irritants, allergies, the weather, and stress.
Avoid Eczema Flare-Ups #2 – Eliminate Your Trigger Factors
Once you believe you found the cause of your flare-ups, eliminate these as an issue. Keep a daily log to monitor what you eat, what you are doing, and what you come into contact with. Compare your outbreaks to this log to determine possible culprits. Then, work to avoid them. You should automatically notice a reduction in outbreaks.
Avoid Eczema Flare-Ups #3 – Avoid Too Much Direct Sunlight
While sunlight is good for the body and skin, too much of it can cause dry skin. Dry skin is another common cause of eczema educed breakouts. Don’t hide inside and avoid the sun forever, but display caution. Apply sun screen, wear covering clothes, and seek sunlight in moderation.
Avoid Eczema Flare-Ups #4 – Keep the Skin Well Moisturized
As previously stated, dry skin can lead to an eczema outbreak. Avoid dry skin by keeping your body hydrated and well-moisturized. After a shower or bath, immediately dab the skin slightly dry and apply moisturize. Continue applying lotions and creams throughout the day.
These are just a few ways that you can avoid eczema flare-ups, but they are successful and easy to implement.
More Info on how to Cure Eczema easily, naturally and forever can be found by Clicking Here