Eczema & Dermatitis

What Is Dermatitis?

Dermatitis is a common condition that is the inflammation of the skin. There are 2 categories in dermatitis causes:

Exogenous – Caused by an allergen that provokes an allergic reaction when in contact

Endogenous – Not directly related to external causes; biological causes

Types Of Dermatitis

Contact Dermatitis
In contact dermatitis, the location of allergy often suggests the cause. Example: the scalp suggests hair tints or shampoos; the face suggests cosmetics products and the hands suggest cleaning substances or chemical that may have been handled during work. Even though the dermatitis can be confined to the initial site of contact, the irritation can cause the dermatitis to spread to other parts of the body.

Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)
Atopic dermatitis or Eczema refers to a hereditary background or tendency to develop one or more conditions such as allergic rhinitis, asthma, eczema and skin sensitivities. Atopic eczema is a constitutional condition marked by papules, especially of the flexural surfaces of the knees and elbows, with itching. Itching is often extremely severe and prolonged, leading to emotional disturbances.

Essential Oils And Dermatitis

Reducing Itching Sensation:

• Lavender - more info | product
• Sandalwood - more info | product

The application of antipruritic will reduce the sensations of itching. This will also reduce the degree of physical trauma caused by scratching. 

Soothing and anti-inflammatory:

• Chamomile - more info  |  product

Often applied to many itchy skin concerns. It’s soothing and anti-inflammatory qualities make it a very gentle and kind oil for the eczema sufferer.

Antibacterial & Anti Fungal:

• Cedarwood - more info | product

This oil provides strong antibacterial, anti fungal and insecticidal properties while helping the skin contract to keep hydration locked in.

For Infections:

• Tea tree- more info | product
• Lavender - more info | product
• Mandarin - more info | product

If an infection is present, it will be necessary to include essential oils with antimicrobial properties.

Maintenance of Hydration:

• Mandarin - more info | product

Mandarin Essential Oil can also help the eczema skin by assisting in the maintenance of hydration within the skin.

Detoxification:

• Rosemary -more info | product
• Eucalyptus - more info | product
• Peppermint- more info | product

Detoxifying oil should be used in a blend if the treatment strategy is to assist in the elimination of toxins.

Using essential oils to combat dermatitis and eczema have been proven effective over the years. In situations where eczema and dermatitis are triggered by stress, click here to read which oils are suitable to use for stress.