Eczema: most effective dietary supplements

Eczema, or dermatitis, is a very common inflammatory skin condition. Characterized by redness, intense itching and sometimes oozing, this condition goes through periods of remission and flare-ups often triggered by environmental, immune or genetic factors. It accounts for up to 30% of dermatology consultations. Although uncomfortable, symptoms can be eased with a combination of natural treatments.

What is eczema?

Eczema refers to inflammation of the skin, often associated with a dysfunction of the skin barrier and an excessive reaction of the immune system. There are several forms of eczema, of which atopic dermatitis is the most common. This mainly affects children, although it can persist into adulthood. Contact eczema, on the other hand, results from an allergic or irritant reaction to specific substances. Skin barrier dysfunction is often caused by mutations in the filaggrin gene, a protein essential to the integrity of the epidermis. When this barrier is impaired, allergens and irritants can penetrate the skin more easily, triggering an excessive inflammatory response. This process is amplified by immune factors, such as increased Th2 cytokines, which promote IgE production and amplify inflammation.

Symptoms of eczema

The manifestations of eczema vary depending on its type and stage. Among the most common symptoms are: • Red patches accompanied by intense itching, which worsen with scratching. • The appearance of blisters that may ooze before forming crusts. • Dry, thickened skin during chronic phases, with an increased risk of cracks and pain. These symptoms can be localized in skin folds, on the hands, the scalp or even the whole body in severe cases. The psychological impact is also significant, as eczema can cause social discomfort and disrupt sleep.

How to treat eczema?

Topical treatments include the regular application of emollients to restore the skin barrier and reduce irritation. Corticosteroids are often prescribed to calm inflammatory flare-ups. For sensitive areas, such as the face or folds, calcineurin inhibitors like tacrolimus can be used.Phototherapies, such as UVB, are an option for moderate to severe forms when conventional treatments fail. They help reduce inflammation with few side effects. In cases of secondary infection, antibiotics may be necessary, but their use should be limited to avoid resistance.

Natural solutions to relieve eczema

Eczema, especially in its chronic forms, can be effectively treated with natural solutions that help relieve symptoms while restoring the body's internal balance. Certain medicinal plants have soothing and anti-inflammatory properties ideal for eczema: • Burdock: known for its cleansing effect, it helps eliminate toxins responsible for skin imbalances. • Aloe vera: its gel deeply moisturizes, promotes healing and soothes irritations. • Nettle: used as an infusion or applied locally, it calms itching. An herbal tea combining plants such as chamomile, elderflower flowers, and wild pansy can also be beneficial, particularly when added to bath water to soothe lesions. Essential oils (EO) can complement eczema management: • Spike lavender essential oil: anti-inflammatory and regenerative, it can be applied diluted to lesions. • Tea tree essential oil: antibacterial, it prevents secondary infections of open wounds. • Roman chamomile essential oil: soothing, it reduces itching and calms irritations. And finally, topical care to protect and hydrate the skin: • Vegetable oils: coconut oil, rich in fatty acids, moisturizes the skin and fights inflammation. Sweet almond oil, meanwhile, is ideal for dry areas. • Shea butter: it restores the skin barrier and reduces the feeling of tightness. • Aloe vera gel: when applied directly, it promotes the healing of cracks and soothes oozing lesions. Diet also plays an important role in managing eczema. An anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3s and antioxidants helps reduce flare-ups. Foods to avoid include refined sugars, dairy products and foods high in histamines (such as tomatoes or chocolate). Supplementation with zinc, manganese, sulfur or probiotics can also support skin regeneration and strengthen the immune system.