HOW TO TREAT ECZEMA, DERMATITIS AND PSORIASIS

Without doubt, four of the most widespread skin problems are Acne, Eczema, Psoriasis and Dermatitis. People of all races and colour constantly search for answers to questions such as how to get rid of Acne, how to cure Acne, how to get rid of old Acne scars and how to treat Eczema, Psoriasis and Dermatitis safely.

PSORIASIS

WHAT IS PSORIASIS?

Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune disease that presents itself on the skin, often on the elbows, scalp and knees. However in severe cases, Psoriasis can be found anywhere on the body or all over the body from head to toe. Although not contagious, this condition comes in 5 different forms - Plaque Psoriasis (the most common form), Pustular Psoriasis, Guttate Psoriasis, Erythrodermic Psoriasis and Inverse Psoriasis. Usually only one form of the condition will present itself at any one time. However, even if that form of Psoriasis clears up, another form of psoriasis will usually appear in response to some trigger.

Basically, the sufferer's immune system is accidentally triggered, so as to cause the rapid acceleration of skin cell growth. Instead of a normal skin cell taking around 29 days to mature before then being shed by the body, a skin cell in a psoriasis sufferer only takes 3 or 4 days to mature and instead of the body shedding it, the cell piles up on the surface of the skin, forming psoriasis lesions.

These lesions frequently appears as red, raised patches covered with scale (a silvery white buildup of dead skin cells). Psoriasis can also be associated with other serious health conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes.

INFANTILE PSORIASIS - The condition occurs in about 3% of the population. Now this may not sound much but in the USA alone, this accounts for 8-9 million people (according to the National Institutes of Health). The condition can start at any age (even as a baby) but it often tends to develop, in both males and females, in their late teens or early twenties. Many simply grow out of the condition over time but some don't and some have a second peak when they reach their fifties.

When it comes to widespread skin conditions, Psoriasis can be tough on the patient. Apart from pain and discomfort, the sufferer can become extremely self-conscious about his or her appearance. The condition can prevail for many years and even for life. This in turn can lead to low self esteem, depression and even suicide.

There is also a condition known as Psoriatic Arthritis. This is an immune system disorder that includes both psoriatic skin lesions and joint inflammation, although they may not necessarily occur at the same time.

WHAT CAUSES PSORIASIS?

Like so many other skin conditions (such as Acne, for example), the exact cause of Psoriasis is unknown. Most research scientists seem to agree that a combination of a person's immune system and genetics is essential for Psoriasis to even develop. Even though only 2-3 % of the population develops Psoriasis, it is suspected that 10% or more of the general population inherit one or more of the genes that create a predisposition to Psoriasis. However, the general consensus between scientists is that apart from being genetically predisposed to Psoriasis, the condition won't develop without some exposure to specific external triggers.

So what are these external triggers? Like allergies, they are wide and varied. In fact, in many cases the actual trigger or triggers is/are never identified. What is known is that just because a certain trigger may produce Psoriasis in someone with the necessary, genetic pre-disposition, does not mean that the same trigger will activate the condition in another person with that same genetic pre-disposition.

As with Acne, there are plenty of people with an opinion on what triggers or what causes Psoriasis. These are unproven theories from diet, allergies, the weather, cleanliness through to anything and everything in the environment or a combination of all these elements.

The known Psoriasis triggers include infection, certain medications, injury and stress. A streptococcal (strep) infection is known to trigger Psoriasis Guttate. Medications such as Quinidine, Lithium, Indomethacin, Inderal and various others are known to aggravate the condition in many cases. If you suffer from Psoriasis, you should always check with your doctor as to any medications you may be taking that could worsen the condition. Known as the Koebner phenomenon (also called the "Koebner response" or the "isomorphic response"), Psoriasis can develop in areas of the skin that have been injured or traumatized in some way. The injury or trauma could range from a skin abrasion, a scratch, a needle (as in a vaccination) through to a repair scar following an operation (eg. a hernia).

COMMON TREATMENTS FOR PSORIASIS

In Western society, the common treatments for Psoriasis have been limited to:-

Over-The-Counter Medications

These products are purchased without a doctor's prescriptions from drugstores, pharmacies or direct from the manufacturer. There are over 400 different products ranging from anti-itch products and scale lifters to various ointments, lotions and scalp treatments. Unfortunately for the Psoriasis sufferer, most of these don't work and can be detrimental due to harmful chemicals and toxins.

Prescription Medications

These are medications that do require a doctor's prescription. For information about these products, talk to a doctor who is familiar with prescribing them, as there can be negative side effects. At best, these medications have varying results but none cure Psoriasis.

Other Treatments

There are various Ultraviolet phototherapy systems for Psoriasis treatments. Phototherapy or ultraviolet light is the application of mid wave light energy (Ultraviolet-B light [UVB]) or long wave light (Ultraviolet-A [UVA]). While Ultraviolet phototherapy can slow down abnormal growth of normal skin cells which is associated with psoriasis, it carries with it some level of risk. Exposure to UV light over prolonged periods is known to increase the chances of contracting skin cancer. This is why in countries such as the USA, a doctor's prescription is required to be certain that you are aware of the potential siude effects.

WHAT IS THE BEST TREATMENT FOR PSORIASIS?

Tamanu or more specifically, Tamanu Oil (scientifc name is Calophyllum Inophyllum) is a largely undiscovered solution for many skin care problems. One of these is Psoriasis and another is Psoriatic Arthritis. While there have been a number of scientific studies on Tamanu Oil, the research has been limited, due largely to the product not being well known outside Pacific Island countries such as Vanuatu. However, sufficient scientific studies have been done in Europe and the USA to know that this oil has the unique ability to promote the formation of new skin tissue and that it possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-neuralgic, antibiotic and antioxidant properties. It's also all natural - zero chemicals or harmful toxins!

HOW TO APPLY TAMANU OIL IN THE TREATMENT OF PSORIASIS

In order to get rid of Psoriasis or at least substantially reduce its effects, simply apply 100% pure Tamanu Oil directly onto the affected areas morning and night using a soft cloth. If your skin begins to dry out too much, hold off on the Tamanu Oil for a few days and apply some Tamanu Butter instead (as the addition of pure Virgin Coconut Oil and Cocoa Butter will provide that extra moisturizing quality). When you're ready, you can just resume the application of pure Tamanu Oil.

Treat Eczema, Dermatitis and Psoriasis

THE IMPORTANCE OF MOISTURIZING - Eczema can be exacerbated by dryness of the skin. Moisturizing is one of the most important self care treatments for sufferers of eczema. Keeping the affected area moistened can promote skin healing and relief of symptoms. Harsh soaps and detergents should not be used and can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to excessive dryness. Instead use a certified organic extra virgin coconut oil soap with essential oils and a certified organic extra virgin coconut oil bath oil.

COCONUT OIL SKIN CARE - ORGANIC EXTRA VIRGIN COCONUT OIL CONTAINS LAURIC ACID. LAURIC ACID HAS POTENT ANTI-BACTERIAL ACTIVITY AND IS ANTI-MICROBIAL.

Our macrobiotic anti-aging skin care will assist in restoring your skin's natural anti-microbial and acid barrier, promote healing and protect your skin against damage.

WHAT IS ECZEMA?

Eczema is a form of allergic dermatitis causing inflammation flare-ups of the skin that can produce dry, scaly patches on the skin and intense itchiness. This itchiness can lead to oozing sores as a result of scratching and the development of rough, scaly or leathery, thickened skin.

There are many types of dermatitis but Atopic Dermatitis or Atopic Eczema is the most common form. Atopic Eczema usually appears in babies and young children. The precise causes of Eczema are not known. However, it is often inherited and can be aggravated by such things as hot, humid weather, particular types of clothing, stress, sensitivity to certain foods and other allergens, chemicals and other pollutants.

Infantile eczema in babies may present itself as severe nappy rash, leading to the formation of small blisters which can then burst and make the surfaces weep. This causes extreme discomfort and irritation which is often aggravated by urine and wet nappies. Infants and children usually grow out of the condition eventually. However, this is not always the case.

Eczema also affects adults of all ages and races. It can occur when skin rubs on skin. Areas most affected are the neck, the groin, behind the knees and in the folds of elbows. While clothing such as wool may play an aggravating role, emotional factors can also be a trigger.

It is important to understand that Eczema is not contagious. However, it is a painful condition and can easily get infected.

COMMON TREATMENTS FOR ECZEMA

There are various medications around. The most common form are Steriod creams and ointments containing Corticosteroid (a class of steroid hormones that are produced in the adrenal cortex). Used in low doses, these can be quite effective. However, high dosages or long term use can produce significant side effects including: -

* an increased appetite resulting in weight gain
* headaches
* increased blood sugar levels
* increased blood pressure
* stomach upsets
* sleeplessness
* Mood swings

Oral corticosteroid treatments (corticosteroid tablets) are also available but used over the long term, can produce very significant side effects, such as: -

* weight gain
* thinning of the skin
* increased cholesterol levels
* stretch marks
* weakening of the immune system
* dilated blood vessels

Occasionally, corticosteroid tablets are needed to control symptoms in people with severe eczema. They are usually only given for a short period of time due to potential side effects.

Other forms of treatment include Topical Immunomodulators ((Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors), such as Pimecrolimus Cream (brand name Elidel) and Tacrolimus, that are used to control inflammation. However, because of concerns about cancers of the lymphatic system and skin, Pimecrolimus is not recommended for long-term continuous use and should not be used on skin that has pre-cancerous changes, is exposed
to a lot of sun, or has previously had a skin cancer removed.

Antibiotic creams / tablets and antiseptic creams are commonly prescribed, if infection sets in. However, sometimes these chemical-based creams can irritate the affected area. Other treatments precribed for severe forms of eczema include tablets such as Sandimmun and Neoral. Again the problem here is that such medicines have some potentially serious side effects. Consequently, they are not suitable for babies or children and are only available for adults by prescription from a skin specialist. They are usually used only when other treatments have failed.

Phototherapy (where they use ultraviolet light) is another form of treatment for chronic, severe eczema. However, possible long term effects of this treatment include skin cancer and premature ageing. The patient is exposed to controlled levels of ultraviolet light two or three times a week and the treatment is both time-consuming and expensive.

WHAT IS THE BEST TREATMENT FOR ECZEMA, DERMATITIS AND PSORIASIS

When it comes to how to treat Eczema, there are those that suggest everything from borage oil, flaxseed oil, fish oil, tea tree oil to primrose oil. Unfortunately, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that any of these are effective in how to treat Eczema.

However, one oil that is known to be effective for the treatment of Dermatitis and Eczema is TAMANU OIL. It has been used by the Melanesian people of Vanuatu for centuries to treat Eczema in babies and adults alike. Tamanu Oil has the unique ability to promote new skin cell growth. It is applied topically (directly onto the skin) and can also be used for various other skin conditions including Acne, the reduction of Acne scars, burns, the complete removal of age spots (in some instances), general scarring, dry or itchy skin, inflammation and Psoriasis.

Some users do find the strong nutty aroma of Tamanu Oil to be a bit overwhelming. Consequently, Volcanic Earth has also produced a topical cream called TAMANU BUTTER. This product has the added moisturising qualities of Virgin Coconut Oil and Cocoa Butter. So, if you suffer from Eczema, we recommend the following:-

	Apply either straight Tamanu Oil or our Tamanu Butter to the affected area morning and afternoon to reduce inflamation & promote the growth of healthy new skin tissue.
	If the Eczema appears on the hands or fingers, apply our Frangipani Hand Moisturiser nightly before bed. If it appears on the face, apply our Facial Moisturizer With Tamanu Oil nightly. If it appears elsewhere on the body, use any of the body moisturisers found in our CocoVan, Unpredictable or Eruptable ranges.

As with all types of eczema and dermatitis, daily moisturising forms the basis for controlling atopic eczema.

DERMATITIS

Peppermint skincare is used to relieve skin irritation (such as dermatitis),  itchiness and to reduce skin redness.  Peppermint skincare is also a valuable ingredient due to its soothing and cooling qualities.  It's ability to reduce redness (where inflamation is present)  and to refresh the skin generally makes it idea for the treatment of feet.  PEPPERMINT ESSENTIAL OIL can make for a very refreshing foot cream or foot scrub.  Peppermint Essential Oil has a pain relieving effect, which can be valuable in alleviating the discomfort of joint and muscle pain.

Volcanic Pumice Powder =  we use superfine and therfore very gentle pumice, high in mineral content.  It is naturally formed, requires no chemicals to process the granules and is an exceptional treatment for skin blemishes, especially acne. Rose Geranium Oil = has antiseptic, astringent and skin healing properties.  Useful for both oily and combination skin types.  Also treats eczema, acne and delays wrinkles and balances complexions.  Lavender Essential Oil = has anti-inflamatory, antiseptic and skin healing properties.  Suitable for all skin types and prevents scaring and skin infections.  Reduces stress and slows development of wrinkles.  Excellent for conditions such as acne, eczema and psoriasis.

SANDALWOOD ESSENTIAL OIL is used in mens aftershaves to help prevent shaving rash.

NATURAL ORGANIC SKIN CARE

Click Here Hand And Foot Care Information

Click Here Tamanu Oil Information