A holistic approach to treating Eczema: Treatments and Skincare Advice from our Integrated Pharmacist

As winter approaches, many of us notice a shift in the condition of our skin.

For those suffering from eczema, the cold can bring more than just a rosy glow to the cheeks; it often leads to uncomfortable, dry, and itchy skin. But why does this happen, and what can we do about it? This post delves into a holistic approach to managing eczema, offering both conventional and integrative solutions.

What is Eczema?

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic condition that causes the skin to become red, itchy, and inflamed. The condition is particularly common in children but can affect individuals of all ages. It's not just a surface issue; eczema can be a significant indicator of the body's internal battles and imbalances.

Types of Eczema

There are several types of eczema, each with distinct triggers and symptoms:

Atopic Dermatitis: The most common form, often linked to an allergic reaction.

Contact Dermatitis: Triggered by contact with irritants or allergens.

Dyshidrotic Eczema: Characterised by small blisters on the hands and feet.

Causes of Eczema

Eczema's exact causes are not fully understood but are believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. These include a malfunctioning immune system, genetics, and triggers such as stress, chemicals, and allergens.

Conventional Treatment Approaches

Conventional treatments often focus on symptom management, including:

Topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and irritation.

While effective, these treatments can have side effects, especially with long-term use.

Importance of Gut Health When it Comes to Eczema

The connection between gut health and skin conditions like eczema is well-documented. This relationship, known as the "gut-skin axis," suggests that a healthy gut microbiome is essential for managing inflammation and immune responses that affect skin health.

Key Insights on Gut Health and Eczema:

Immune Regulation: An imbalanced gut microbiome can lead to increased systemic inflammation, which may exacerbate eczema symptoms.

Barrier Function: Maintaining the integrity of the gut lining is crucial. A compromised gut barrier ("leaky gut") can trigger inflammatory responses that manifest on the skin.

Stress and Hormones: The gut influences the body’s stress response, which can affect eczema through hormonal and immune pathways.

Strategies to Enhance Gut Health:

Probiotics: Supplementing with probiotics like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium can improve skin barrier function and reduce eczema severity by modulating the immune system.

Prebiotics and Diet: A diet rich in prebiotics and fibers supports a healthy microbiome. These nutrients help reduce inflammation through the production of anti-inflammatory compounds by gut bacteria. Some easy ones to include are asparagus, bananas, oats, brown rice, leeks, and flaxseed.

Avoid Gut Irritants: Limiting intake of processed foods and artificial additives can help preserve gut barrier integrity and functionality.

Integrated Approaches to Ezcema: Supplements

The relationship between nutrition and skin health is increasingly recognised in scientific research. Here are three key supplements that show promise in the management of eczema:

1. Probiotics

As we mentioned earlier, probiotics play a pivotal role in maintaining gut health, which can have a profound effect on inflammation levels throughout the body, including the skin. Studies suggest that certain strains of probiotics can reduce the severity of eczema in children, particularly those already at high risk for allergic diseases. For instance, a clinical trial found that infants who received probiotics daily had lower incidences of eczema compared to those who did not. The proposed mechanism is that probiotics help in balancing the gut microbiota, which in turn modulates the immune response and reduces skin inflammation.

2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids, found abundantly in fish oil, have well-documented anti-inflammatory properties that can help manage a range of inflammatory conditions including eczema. Dietary supplementation with omega-3s has been shown to improve skin barrier function, reduce the need for topical steroids, and decrease inflammation. A systematic review highlighted that fish oil supplementation could decrease eczema symptoms significantly, likely due to the anti-inflammatory effects of EPA and DHA.

3. Vitamin D

Vitamin D's role extends beyond bone health; it is crucial for skin repair and immune function. Research indicates that low vitamin D levels are linked with more severe eczema symptoms, particularly in the winter months when sunlight exposure is reduced. Supplementation with vitamin D has been shown to improve eczema symptoms, particularly in patients with known deficiencies.

Topical Treatments: Natural Topical Treatments

While conventional treatments like steroids are effective, they often come with potential side effects such as skin thinning or disruption of the skin microbiome. Here’s how natural alternatives can help:

MooGoo Eczema & Psoriasis Cream

This cream is an excellent example of a natural topical treatment that utilises the anti-inflammatory properties of Centella Asiatica, an herb known for its ability to improve skin hydration and reduce inflammation. Clinical studies support the use of Centella Asiatica for improving the symptoms of eczema by promoting skin barrier repair and reducing inflammation. We stock MooGoo in our Port Macquarie pharmacies, and can happily guide you on what products may be suitable.

Consult with Our Experts for Personalised Eczema Management

Managing eczema effectively requires a comprehensive approach that includes both medical treatments and lifestyle adjustments. By understanding your triggers, incorporating beneficial supplements, and using gentle skincare products, you can significantly improve your quality of life.

If you are considering new treatments, especially dietary changes or new supplements, it's important to consult with healthcare professionals to ensure these are safe and appropriate for your specific health needs. Visit our pharmacy to speak with our integrated pharmacist for personalised advice tailored to your unique needs.

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Written by Pharmacist Melinda Dalton

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