Eczema: Understanding the Itch

October is Eczema Awareness Month and we would like to help you understand more about this challenging and often frustrating skin condition. Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a multifactorial skin condition that can be influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors. It typically begins in childhood but can persist or even develop in adulthood.

 Characterized by red, itchy, and inflamed skin, eczema can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition to manage.

Eczema Client treated with Environ

Key symptoms of eczema include:

1.   Intense Itching: Eczema is often characterized by severe itching, which can lead to scratching, further irritation, and potential skin infections.

2.   Redness and Inflammation: Affected skin areas become red and inflamed due to the body's immune response to perceived threats.

3.   Dry and Sensitive Skin: Eczema-prone skin is dry and sensitive, making it susceptible to cracking, flaking, and increased vulnerability to external irritants.

4.   Flare-Ups: Eczema symptoms can vary in intensity, with periodic flare-ups that can be triggered by factors like allergens, stress, and weather changes.

5.   Skin Discomfort: Patients often report discomfort and pain, which can significantly impact their quality of life.

Common areas affected by eczema include the face, neck, hands, elbows, and knees, but it can appear anywhere on the body. Eczema can also fluctuate in severity, with periods of flare-ups followed by periods of relative calm.

Treatment Options for Eczema

 While there is no cure for eczema, there are various treatment options available to manage the condition and provide relief from its symptoms. The goal of eczema treatment is to soothe the skin, reduce inflammation, and prevent future flare-ups. Here are some of the treatment options commonly used:

• Consulting a Dermatologist: If your eczema is severe or not responding to over-the-counter products, it's crucial to consult a dermatologist.

• Topical Steroids: These are anti-inflammatory creams or ointments that can help reduce itching and inflammation during eczema flare-ups. They are available in various strengths, with stronger ones prescribed for more severe cases.

• Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors: These non-steroidal creams and ointments work by suppressing the immune response in the skin, reducing inflammation and itchiness. They are often used on sensitive areas like the face and neck.

• Oral Medications: In severe cases, oral medications such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressants may be prescribed to manage eczema symptoms. However, these medications often come with potential side effects and are reserved for cases that do not respond to other treatments.

5.    Wet Wrap Therapy: This involves applying a wet, medicated bandage over topical treatments to enhance their effectiveness and provide relief from itching and inflammation.

6.   Avoiding Triggers: Identifying and avoiding triggers that exacerbate eczema is essential. Common triggers include allergens, irritants, stress, and certain foods. 

Environ Medical Grade Skincare for Eczema

The Environ Difference

 Environ is dedicated to delivering skincare solutions that are backed by scientific research and clinical trials. Their commitment to innovation and quality sets them apart in the skincare industry. When it comes to eczema management, here's how Environ's medical-grade skincare stands out:

• Scientifically Proven Ingredients: Environ products are formulated with active ingredients that have undergone rigorous testing to ensure their safety and effectiveness. This scientific approach is particularly important for individuals with eczema, as their skin can be highly reactive.

• Tailored Solutions: Environ understands that skincare is not one-size-fits-all. Their extensive range of products allows individuals to customize their skincare routines to address their specific eczema-related concerns.

• Commitment to Skin Health: Environ's philosophy is centered on improving overall skin health. By focusing on strengthening the skin's natural defenses and addressing underlying issues, Environ products can help manage and alleviate eczema symptoms over time.

Environ is a renowned brand known for its medical-grade skincare products that are developed with advanced ingredients and formulations. Environ's approach to skincare aligns well with managing eczema symptoms, as their products focus on improving skin health and providing the necessary nutrients to maintain a strong skin barrier.

 Here are some Environ products that can be beneficial for individuals with eczema:

 1.   Environ Focus Care Comfort+ Vita-Enriched Antioxidant Gel: This soothing gel is formulated to calm and comfort sensitive and irritated skin. It can provide relief during eczema flare-ups and help reduce redness and inflammation.

2.    Environ Derma-Lac Lotion: This exfoliating lotion contains lactic acid, which can help improve the texture and appearance of eczema-prone skin. It also aids in the absorption of other skincare products.

3.   Environ Body EssentiA Vitamin A, C & E Body Oil is a light, finely textured multi-functional oil rich in vitamins and antioxidants. This oil is nonocclusive and allows the skin to breathe while retaining moisture. This unique combination works in tandem with Derma-Lac lotion to gently exfoliate the skin and provide the much need hydration to relieve dryness, itching and irritation.

4.   Sun Protection: Protecting your skin from the sun is crucial, especially when dealing with eczema. Elta MD offers a range of sunscreens with broad-spectrum mineral SPF protection to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. Many formulations contain zinc, which has anti-inflammatory properties and increases epithelialization, which refers to skin healing over a wound, supporting its use for treating eczema. Zinc is a useful soothing and antipruritic (anti-itch) agent.

 It is important to note that when using Environ or any other medical-grade skincare products for eczema, you should consult with a dermatologist or skin care professional to determine the most suitable products for your skin type and condition. They can provide personalized recommendations and guidance on how to incorporate these products into your skincare routine.

Eczema can be a challenging and frustrating skin condition to manage, but with the right approach and skincare products, it is possible to find relief and improve your skin's health. Environ's medical-grade skincare offers a range of solutions to help soothe and alleviate the discomfort associated with eczema.

Remember that managing eczema is an ongoing journey, and it's essential to consult with a dermatologist or skin care professional for personalized guidance and recommendations. With Environ's advanced formulations and a proactive approach to skincare, you can take control of your eczema and enjoy healthier, more comfortable skin.