Skin is the largest organ of human body. Like the rest of the body, skin needs a lot of water. Whenever your skin feel discomfort, it is most likely that the outer layer of the skin barrier is asking for some replenishing of water.
America’s National Eczema Association suggests lifestyle changes, over-the-counter remedies or prescription medications, depending on the type and severity of eczema. Its definition of Eczema “is the name for a group of conditions that cause the skin to become itchy, inflamed, or have a rash-like appearance”. Bear in mind that we all have different skin type and some time in our lives, we may experience different severities of skin irritations, which may or may not qualify as eczema.
Some food can help
Avocado: Avocado oil is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, D, and E. According to Medical News Today, avocado can benefit the skin by moisturizing and nourishing the epidermis layer of the skin, relieving inflammation, preventing acne, and soothing sunburned skin.
Chamomile: Due to its anti-inflammatory property, chamomile is known to be used to soothe skin rashes, minor burns, and sunburn.
Oats: “Colloidal oatmeal (finely ground oats) has long been used to help treat dry and itchy skin. It may help relieve symptoms of various skin conditions, including eczema.” – Heathline.com
Research shows its unique compounds boast both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and protect your skin’s moisture.
The Canadian Dermatology Association has a list of skincare products including cleansers, moisturizers, creams, and cosmetics, which are unscented and low potential in causing skin irritations.
Aromatherapy
Essential oils are powerful concentrated compounds extracted from flowers, or plants.
Safety first – essential oils are not ingestible and should not be applied directly onto the skin. In particular, our eyes, noses, and mouths, where the skin barrier is thin and sensitive, should not be too close to the essential oils. Different ways of using essential oils depending on the purposes, are inhaling from a diffuser, burning candles or incenses made with essential oils, apply topically onto affected skin area after mixed with carrier oil, such as sweet almond oil and olive oil. Another precaution is to ensure the quality provided by a reputable manufacturer. Please be extra cautious when you have younger children under the age of 6 or infants.
Here are some essential oils that you should have in stock to ease your skin irritations. Lavender, Chamomile, Geranium, Vetiver, Frankincense, and Patchouli.
To have some professional recommendation, you may contact your local accredited aromatherapists.
Canadian Federation of Aromatherapists https://www.cfacanada.com/
US National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy https://naha.org/
UK International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists https://ifparoma.org/
Australia International Aromatherapy and Aromatic Medicine Association http://www.iaama.org.au/
Preventative measures to consider
I have had a few episodes on my skin conditions over the years, some minor, and some serious flare-up. I have implemented what I learned from the dermatologists but also find my inner peace. Bear in mind that any sickness or illness is a signal our body sending out for us to correct the dis-ease. Here is my to-do list to better take care of my skin, body, and mind.
Watch out for allergen, the triggers, such as strong perfume. Everyone is different and that being said, some people have higher or lower tolerance rate that others to sun exposure, dust, or scented soaps.
Lower water temperature when you take a shower or bath. When the water temperature is high, it takes away the water in your skin and let it dry out fast. Reduce the time under the water and apply moisturizer immediately after finishing shower to retain water on the skin.
Reduce stress and anxiety. Have you ever noticed that when we are thinking hard, we tend to scratch our head? The emotions of distressed, anxious, and worried put our body in an uncomfortable state. The skin may reflect this mental state by having the brain sending a message for our hands to scratch our arms, hand, or necks. There is no instant cure but to train our mind to relax and worry less.
Better sleep and drink water. We all know how our skin looks like when we do not have enough water or sleep. Drinking is like answer the thirst your body is craving while sleeping is to have our body and mind have time to rest and recharge.
I hope you have a better understanding on how to care for our skin. Everyone is different, just like each individual’s preferences on colors, food, and fashion styles. It’s better to understand our bodies and treat it well until the day it decides to call for a strike. Then a remedy shall be sought.
Take good care of yourself!
Macy
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