Author: Moin Nex

Eczema

Baby Eczema Symptoms, Causes, Treatments and Triggers

Author ByMoin Nex

Unlike eczema in adults, baby eczema is common and treatable. Dry itchy patches flare up on your baby’s skin.

In most cases these patches are wiped out naturally, in other cases you must practice a moisturizing remedy prescribed by doctor. 10 to 15 percent of babies are affected by atopic dermatitis or infantile eczema.

Where it appears and what does it look like?

red baby eczema rashes

Dry, red, itchy and crusty eczema patches may appear anywhere on baby’s skin, but in most cases flare ups can be seen on fore head, cheeks, scalp and over joints.

You may confuse eczema rashes with cradle cap rashes. Cradle cap rashes normally occurs on baby’s scalp, it is harmless and does not usually itchy (goes off in 8 months).

What causes baby eczema?

Scientists are researching to find the exact cause of eczema, right now cause for eczema in adults and babies are unknown.

But few experts say that dry skin and hereditary can cause eczema flare ups.

Skin is barrier which protects inner parts and natural oils present on skin helps it to work efficiently. When these natural oils are stripped either by using harsh soaps or by hydrating baby from inside the body, dry skin appears which results in itch-scratch cycle.

Related: How to get rid of dry skin in adults

Or if anyone in parents have hay fever or asthma or diseases which are associated with eczema, then eczema flare ups may appear.

Does this patch go away by itself?

In most cases red itchy patches goes away when your infants grow up. Only small number of children will carry it to adolescence age. Anyway, remissions may appear in different stages of life. Avoiding dry skin by applying moisturizer will work.

Baby Eczema Triggers?

Triggers or irritations increases flare-ups and may make the situation worse. But remember that eczema triggers will not be same for all babies. Here are common eczema triggers.

#1 Dry skin

It causes itching, which increase eczema condition. Dry skin is caused when you use soaps with alcohol as ingredient. They strip natural oils from skin leaving it dry from the outside. Climate can also make skin dry; like winter. The dry air makes skin dry by stimulating itching.

Tip

Apply moisturizer prescribed by doctor and use humidifier in your room when air outside is dry. Prefer moisturizing soaps. Hot water leaves your baby’s skin dry, instead go for lukewarm water.

#2 Stress

Babies with eczema react to stress by flushing, which leads to itching.

Tip

Keep yourselves stress free to calm your babies.

“When parents stress, the kids are going to be stressed,” says Andrew Garner, MD (source: WebMD)

#3 Irritants

Keep your babies away from wool or synthetic fibers which trigger itching, also from body sprays, perfumes and soaps or creams which are made for adults.

Sweat and heat can make infant eczema worse.

Tip:

If you’re not sure which type of clothes are your baby’s skin love, take advice from other or consult your doctor.

#4 Allergens

According to WebMD still there is a debate on food allergies triggering eczema. Few experts suggest that removing cow’s milk, peanuts and eggs from baby’s diet may help to reduce eczema flare ups.

Read this: Home Remedies for Skin Allergies

Treating Baby’s Eczema

If you want to get rid awkward looking rashes on your baby’s skin then you may try below suggested tips. (Few of them are already discussed above, will repeat it here)

  • Before taking for a bath apply oil (essential oil or any other oil) on your baby’s whole body.
  • Avoid hot water, consider lukewarm water.
  • After bath pat dry baby’s skin, don’t rub.
  • While baby’s skin is damp apply moisturizing cream.
  • Dress baby with cotton and avoid synthetic fiber cloths.
  • Cut your baby’s nails (be careful, you might hurt him/her). So that, while scratching he/she won’t damage skin. You can use gloves instead.
  • Avoid putting too many blankets, because sweating can trigger itching.

If none of the above is working go for steroids, which may include creams or any other medication if needed.

We recommend consulting a doctor before taking a step.

Baby Eczema Pictures

Image sources: 1, 2, 3, 4

Reference:

  • http://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby-eczema-questions-answers
  • http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cradle-cap/Pages/Introduction.aspx
  • http://www.parenting.com/article/3-things-that-stress-out-babies
Psoriasis

Psoriasis Causes, Symptoms and Treatment – with Pictures

Author ByMoin Nex

Psoriasis (suh-RY-uh-sus) is a chronic (long term) skin disease resulting red, scaly and dry patches on skin; mostly concentrating elbows, scalp, knees and fingers. These patches may be small (mild psoriasis) or large (severe psoriasis).

In some cases psoriasis also affects joints; there will be no rash or bump on skin. This is called psoriatic arthritis, one among the 5 main types of psoriasis. Plaque psoriasis is most common type of psoriasis. Patches are caused due to rapid growing of skin cells which accumulate and form a silvery-white appearance. Fingernails and toenails are also affected by detaching nail plate; this is called psoriatic nail dystrophy.

psoriasis causes and treatment

Though we’ve lots more information about different types of psoriasis its causes are still unknown. Few experts say that over reaction of immune system and having psoriasis in families can cause psoriasis. Psoriasis is associated with cancer, diabetes and heart diseases. Why it’s associated and why it affects health is still unknown.

Good thing is it’s not contagious. When you come in contact with psoriasis effected person no need to worry. But it may spread to children, as it is termed as genetic disease (Wikipedia).

Stats on Psoriasis

Just to show how dangerous this disease can be, we’re sharing these stats.

  • In US psoriasis is most prevalent autoimmune disease. (Autoimmune disease is a condition where your immune system attacks your body by mistake) (source: Nlm.nih.gov)
  • 2.2 percent of world population has psoriasis.
  • This skin disease affects mostly adults. Children and young people may have this condition.
  • Psoriatic arthritis, a type of psoriasis effects people between 30-40 ages.
  • It’s no more a cosmetic disease. Nearly 60 percent of people reported that this is a large problem in their lives.
  • Quality of life is shattered.

What Causes Psoriasis?

The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown. Anyway, experts associate it with genetic disease and autoimmune disorder where immune system attacks your own body.

This result in forming of skin cells rapidly, normally it takes weeks for new cells to generate and old cells to shed but in this case on daily basis skin cells are generated. These over generated cells accumulate on skin forming dry, scaly patches. And when blood flows it form redness over these dead cells.

Also environmental factors may cause psoriasis.

How Psoriasis look like? Symptoms and signs of Psoriasis

Concentrating elbows, knees, lower back and scalp psoriasis forms red, flaky, thick silver patches. Anyway, any other area can be involved in this infection. These patches vary from small to large. In severe cases red, loose silvery patches are formed on skin.

Symptoms differ from person to person, depending on the severity of this autoimmune disease. People with severe psoriasis have to battle their everyday. Quality of life is completely shattered.

But don’t worry there are about 75 million Americans who’ve psoriasis.

Though there is no cure for psoriasis you don’t have to battle with it every day. There are different types of treatment to reduce psoriasis levels. Even people (85 -90 percent, approximately) with severe psoriasis reduced flare ups with varying treatments.

Treating Psoriasis

Psoriasis is not equal for everyone; you need to try different treatments to find the exact medicine which affect your psoriasis. So, we advice you to consult a doctor or dermatologist for diagnoses.

Different psoriasis treatments

  • Topical treatments for Psoriasis, this involves directly applying on target area. This is the first type of treatment to try in diagnosis process.
  • Biologic drugs, patients with severe to mild psoriasis are prescribed for this treatment. Biological drugs are given either by injection or intravenous infusion which targets specific parts of immune system.
  • Systemic medications – when topical and light therapy fail to reduce psoriasis flare-ups oral medication is given. Unlike biologics this targets the whole immune system. Systemic medicine is given either by oral or injection or both.
  • UV Light therapy – exposing psoriasis infected parts to UV rays can reduce flare-ups, but you need to be consistent to see the change. More about light therapy here.
  • Complementary and Alternative – NCCAM (National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine) shows that 36 percent of Americans prefer complementary therapy for chronic diseases. This treatment involves both medical and health care systems which are not presently considered in traditional medicine.

Natural treatments

When all medical treatments fail to reduce flare-ups you can try natural remedies. This includes sunlight and ocean water. Aloe Vera, Oily fish, Dead Sea salts and cayenne are mostly used in natural treatments.

Read this: Natural remedies to treat Eczema

Having a healthy diet in no way treats psoriasis, but it can indirectly reduce agents causing psoriasis.

Psoriasis Pictures

Image source 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

References

  • http://www.psoriasis.org
  • http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/psoriasis/
  • http://www.medicinenet.com/psoriasis/article.htm
Home remedies

Benefits of Raw Honey for Skin – Reddit User Shares Acne Transformation Pics

Author ByMoin Nex

Honey manufactures, Bees add an enzyme that makes hydrogen peroxide making honey anti-bacterial.

Apart from treating heart, cancer and other diseases, the earth’s old sweetener proved that it can treat skin diseases too.

Reddit user cthulhuandcats shares how raw honey helped her to treat acne.

Like everyone she decided to see dermatologist, who insisted her antibiotic medicine. Yes, it worked! But on a high price and skin became dry and started cracking. Now, she decided to try out few natural remedies to get rid of these flaky marks. After a long research she decided to go with honey and you won’t believe it transformed her skin.

After months of honey treatment skin is now hydrated, soft and no blemishes. Have a look at her photos.

(source)

Nutritional Values in Honey

Raw honey has more nutritional values than heated honey. Heated honey is turned into pure sucrose making it lose many nutritional values. It’s difficult to get raw honey in grocery store; you can get organic raw honey from farmers market.

Since many years honey has been used by human as healing medicine. With its antibiotic properties honey can help in healing process.

Have a look at nutritional values of honey.

source

Benefits of Raw Honey for Skin

  1. Honey is natural humectant, this property helps to draw water from air to keep skin moist and to fight dryness.
  2. Antibacterial properties in honey help to fight bacteria and condemn further infections.
  3. Anti aging and helps in rejuvenating your skin.
  4. Best remedy to exfoliate dead cells cleanses skin.
  5. Sugar in honey is absorbed gradually into the bloodstream to result in better digestion.
  6. Apply raw honey on acne affected part to get rid of those annoying pimples. You can also try with other chronic diseases like eczema and dermatitis.
  7. Protects your skin from harmful UV rays.
  8. Weak immune system is the main cause of major skin disease, consuming honey will boost immune system, so that your body can fight germs by itself.
  9. Smoothing honey and lemon juice can help you get rid of nerve-wracking scars.
  10. Cleanse your skin of bacteria and reduce redness or inflammation.
  11. You can also include honey in your facial scrub.
  12. Dabbing little honey on sun burns or skin burns will make you feel better instantly.

It was rumored that Cleopatra – an Egyptian queen use honey and milk for luxurious bath. (source)

Recipe

Skin Lotion

  • 1 tbsp of honey
  • 1 tbsp of grape seed oil
  • 1 tbsp of lemon juice
  • and 3 drops lavender essential oil

Mix the solution and apply it on your skin.

Skin Cleansing Scrub

  • 1 tbsp of honey
  • 2 tbsp of finely grained almonds
  • 1 tbsp of lemon juice
  • and an aromatic herb of your choice.

Know any other home remedy to treat skin disease? Share here in comments.

Have a healthy diet

Reference:

  • http://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/food-nutrition/facts/the-benefits-of-honey.htm
  • http://www.benefits-of-honey.com/honey-nutrition.html
  • http://www.kitchenstewardship.com/2011/06/28/a-sweet-sweet-summer-does-raw-honey-have-health-benefits/
Dry skin

7 Homemade Moisturizer for Dry Skin and Face

Author ByMoin Nex

Though our skin is naturally made to lockup the moisture, at times it fails to do its job because we fail to supply nutritional elements to our body.

Also, change in climate like winter or dry air makes skin dry. Dry skin is most common skin situation where bacteria may invade triggering itch and sometimes leading to chronic skin diseases. (Read tips to get rid of dry skin here.)

Well you can fight this itchy, flaky patch and literally wipe them out.

You don’t have to think about a beauty spa or a pricey moisturizer. Check out your kitchen, it’s stocked up with all the natural moisturizers.

Wait, wait… don’t rush to kitchen now! Take time and read these homemade moisturizers to treat dry skin.

1. Honey

honey - home remedy for skin burnNot just sweetening your tea, honey is equipped with a bunch of nutritional value to soothe skin. It’s a natural humectant, which helps to keep things moist by drawing water molecules from air. Antiseptic, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties in honey benefits skin to fight dryness and infection.

With amazing benefits of health, honey can help you get a smooth, good complexion and acne free skin.

Recently a Reddit.com user shared her experience with raw honey and how it helped to get rid of acne. (source)

Recipe:

Dissolve equal amount of honey (2 tbsp) and water then add 6 tbsp of water. Apply the solution on face or any other part, rinse smoothly after 15-20 minutes.

Don’t miss: Honey and cinnamon face mask

2. Avocados

Besides being consumed as food avocado has many health and beauty benefits. It contains vitamin A, biotin and antioxidants which is essential for healthy skin. Vitamin A helps in purging off dead skin cells and biotin helps to prevent dry skin. Emollient properties in avocado oil help to keep skin moist.

Apply mashed avocados on affected part and rinse it off after 15-20 minutes.

3. Olive oil

Olives is enriched with vitamin E, vitamins A and K, iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium and amino acids. Apart from treating diabetes, breast cancer and lowering blood pressure olive oil can help your skin to get back its moisture. Not just dry skin; with olive oil you can treat stretch marks, oily skin and other skin diseases.

Recipe:

Mix honey, egg yolk in olive oil and stir well. Apply it on affected part or whole body including face leave it for about 15-20 minutes and rinse it off with lukewarm water.

4. Shea Butter

It’s a fat extracted from nuts of African Shea tree. Apart from using it in medical ointments it also used for skin and hair benefits. Most of soap industries include Shea butter as ingredient.

Similar to natural fats found in upper layer of skin, Shea butter is rich in Vitamin A. Skin conditions including dry skin, eczema, dermatitis, sunburn and insect bites can be treated.

Check out its manufacturing date is no more than 18 months. As old Shea butter have less moisturizing benefits.

Also read: Shea Butter for treating acne

5. Aloe Vera

aloe vera to treat dry skinAloe Vera is an excellent remedy to soothe itchy skin. This nature driven medicine helps to moisture and get rid of itchy dry patches.

Anti-allergic properties of Aloe Vera help to cure skin diseases like eczema, psoriasis, itchy skin and dry skin.

Recipe:

Cut one of the tentacles of Aloe Vera plant and apply the gel on affected part. You can also get Aloe Vera cream from local drug store.

You can add Coconut oil and Butter milk to this list of home available moisturizers for dry skin.

Healthy Diet

Which moisturizer you use at home? Let us know.

 

 

 

 

Reference:

  • http://health.howstuffworks.com/skin-care/moisturizing/products/5-moisturizing-home-remedies.htm
  • http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/10/22/homemade-cures-dry-skin-rough-heels_n_4136308.html
  • http://blog.freepeople.com/2013/01/5-natural-homemade-remedies-dry-skin/
  • http://www.sheainstitute.com/asbi-library/21reasons/
Dry skin

Itchy Dry Skin Patches On Body, Face and Hands

Author ByMoin Nex

Dry skin is a common skin condition which can be cured in a week by applying a moisturizer.

Dry skin irritates your skin which stimulates itching and it’s almost impossible to refrain yourself from scratching though don’t recommended doing so. Scratching dry skin leaves rough, red and dry patches on skin which will again lead to itching causing severe skin problems.

If dry itchy skin goes away within a week after applying moisturizing cream and hydrating from the inside by taking few energy drinks, then there is nothing to worry. But in case if you still see dry itchy patches on skin then you need to worry a bit, as this can be a chronic skin disease. Rush to your doctor as soon as you identify that itching is not normal.

It can be eczema or psoriasis; both are chronic diseases (last for long time). Unfortunately causes of eczema or psoriasis stays unknown till now. Anyway, scientist after a study, came to know that hereditary is one among the cause of eczema (NHS). This (eczema) is serious skin disease which is affecting about 9% to 30% of US population. Like eczema, psoriasis causes itchy skin with dead cells accumulated on upper layer forming dry patches.

If you’ve dry itchy skin patches on any part of your body for longer period then it can be eczema (Atopic eczema) or psoriasis.

We recommend visiting dermatologist for a definitive diagnosis.

Recommend articles:

How to know if you’ve a chronic skin disease?

Symptoms are simple and easy to recognize. You see your skin dries out and dry skin normally causes itching. It is irresistible to stop scratching and scratching leaves your skin with red or dry skin patches.

One of the main symptoms is, even after applying effective moisturizing cream itching continues.

If you see itchy dry skin more than 2 weeks then experts suggests visiting doctor for diagnosis.

Now that you know you’ve something more than normal itching don’t ignore visit a dermatologist.

Can you get rid of itchy skin at home?

Not sure!

It depends on the level it affected you. With few home remedies itching or dry skin may disappear but it may come back again. Anyway, if you’re looking for a quick home remedy then here it is:

Don’t miss this: Dry skin brushing to get rid of Cellulite

Home remedies for itchy dry skin

  1. Baking Soda Bath – Add one cup of baking soda to bath tub and soak for about 30 minutes. You can also mix one part of water and 3 parts of baking soda to apply on localized itching.
  2. Oat meal – Mix oat meal in water and spread it on affected part which gives smoothing and cooling experience.
  3. Essential oil- Natural oils has many advantages to your skin, it can help you get rid of itchiness. Add any essential oil to bathing tub or apply directly.
  4. Applying Aloe Vera on itchy skin relives you from itchiness, as it moisturizes your skin. Use a cotton ball to apply.
  5. Drink more water, to hydrate your body from the inside.
  6. Humidify your room with a humidifier in winter.
  7. Avoid soaps with fragrance, as ingredients in it stripes essential oils on skin which keeps skin moisture.
  8. Dry skin is main cause of itching so take vitamin A, B and E enriched diet.
  9. Avoid alcohol and smoking which dehydrates your body.
  10. Apply moisturizing cream regularly.

There are literally many home remedies to treat dry skin and itching. Would you like to share any if you know?

Images showing Dry Skin Patches

eczema on hands eczema on two hands eczema on fingers eczema on feet itchy dry skin patches

Image source

References

  • http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com/2012/11/21-home-remedies-for-dry-itchy-skin.html
  • http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/eczema/understanding-eczema-symptoms
  • http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/eczema-%28atopic%29/Pages/causes.aspx
  • http://health.howstuffworks.com/skin-care/information/skin-types/dry-skin2.htm
Natural Resource

7 Benefits of Carrot for Skin You Won’t Believe Exist

Author ByMoin Nex

Fed up of using Vitamin A pills?

Forget that and get a bunch of carrots which host many nutritional items. This home available root vegetable is well known for Vitamin A and Beta-carotene. Anyway, there are many other vitamins in carrot which are listed at the end of this post.

It’s interesting to know the connection between Vitamin A and Beta-carotene.

Vitamin A (a fat soluble fat)

benefits of carrots for skinVitamin A is involved in immune system functioning, vision, reproduction and cellular communication.

It is a great resource for skin and body to function normally at the same time to get rid of many harmful diseases. Vitamin A helps to exfoliate skin to remove dead cells which is a great way to eradicate skin diseases. Vitamin A can reprogram a changed cell to normalize the skin condition which can reduce acne and eczema.

Vitamin A has two basic forms 1) Preformed vitamin A 2) Provitamin A.

Preformed vitamin A is mostly found in meat, fish and dairy products.  The Journal of Clinical Nutrition reports that, human absorbs and utilizes preformed vitamin A at the rate of 70 to 90 percent. (source)

Coming to Provitamin A, it’s found in fruits, vegetables and other plant based diet.

Beta-carotene (provitamin A)

Most common provitamin A found in vegetables is beta-carotene. Unlike Preformed vitamin A, beta-carotene is converted to vitamin A by body. A study shows that beta-carotene is effective against UV rays.

And carrot has both these vitamin A forms in it. Including this, carrot is rich in potassium, carbohydrates and fiber.

Must read: Best Foods to Nourish Dry Skin

Benefits of Carrot for skin

Now that you know the nutritional value of carrot, you can easily understand and remember benefits it can give to your skin. To make sure you stay healthy we also included few healthy benefits of carrot.

#1 Can treat acne, eczema and dry skin problems

Numerous studies have concluded that vitamin A in your diet can cure chronic eczema. Vitamin A in carrots can cure tumors, cancer, lesions in skin, reports says. Antioxidants and vitamins present in carrot protect your skin from sun damages. Keeps the skin moisture making the epidermis function properly as a barrier.

Vitamin A in carrots helps to get rid of wrinkles, acne, and pigmentation and improves skin tone.

#2 Can be used as a face mask

Mix carrot with honey and apply it to your face. You can remove dry skin get back moist smooth skin tone on your face. (Also read: 6 homemade face scrubs)

#3 Prevent heart diseases and strokes

Regular consumption of carrots reduces cholesterol level because soluble fiber in carrots binds the bile acids. Study shows that diet which is rich in carotenoids can reduce heart disease.

A study at Harvard University shows that people who consumed extra 6 carrots a week have are less likely to suffer from strokes.

#5 Anti-aging

Vitamin A is the only chemical which is capable of reprogramming cell change helps keep the skin out of wrinkles and dryness through metabolism.

#6 Improved eye vision

Most of us know about this, high intake of carrot helps to improve our vision. Vitamin A after metabolism sent to retina, this is important for night vision.

#7 Acts like body Cleanser

Vitamin A flushes away toxins in body which reduces bile and fat in the body. Also the fiber helps to wash away waste out of colon.

Other benefits include

  • Cleans your teeth and mouth.
  • It’s a powerful antiseptic.
  • Prevent cancer.
  • Treatment for hair loses.
  • Stimulate hair growth.
  • Great source for calcium.
  • Cardiovascular benefits.
  • Boosts immune system.

Side effects

There is a popular story about high consumption of carrot that your skin will turn to yellow – orange. And yes this is not rumor. International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition says that over intake of carrot can turn your skin color and whiten your eyes.

Ingesting 20 milligrams of beta-carotene per day can probe you the risk.

Top countries cultivating carrots

The name carrot is derived from the Greek word karoton. And it belongs to Umbelliferae family. Though at starting carrots are highly cultivated in Central Asia and Middle East Countries, China cultivates one-third of all carrots sold worldwide, Russia stands second largest carrots producer with US on third position

In US alone adults consume 12 pounds of carrot each year (9 pounds in fresh form and 3 pounds in canned or frozen form).

We think that carrot is only found in orange color but the fact is they can be found in white, yellow, purple and red. In 15th and 16 the century carrot with purple, yellow and red were the only color varieties of carrots to be cultivated.

Nutritional Value of Carrots

Vitamin A, Beta-carotene, Potassium, Carbohydrates, Fiber, Protein, Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Manganese, Potassium, Sodium, Zinc, Fluoride, lutein and zeaxanthin.

How to consume Carrots?

Carrots are tightly packed with nutrition listed above, to consume all of them best way is to crush them to grab all those vitamins by boiling, grinding, juicing or proper chewing.

With this the consumption and absorption rate increases.

Study proves that having carrots after streaming has more nutritional benefits to boiled carrots.

References

  • http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminA-HealthProfessional/
  • http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carrot
  • http://www.care2.com/greenliving/10-benefits-of-carrots.html
  • http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=21

Recommended articles

Image source

Eczema

Eczema Causes, Symptoms and Treatment – with Pictures

Author ByMoin Nex

Eczema is a term used to refer a group of skin diseases where skin becomes inflamed or irritated. In some languages, eczema also called as dermatitis, while in other languages dermatitis known for acute skin disease and eczema for chronic skin disease. A chronic disease is a condition which lasts for longer time, more than 3 months.

As mentioned above eczema is not a single skin disease. There are many types of eczema and most common one is Atopic Eczema. Let’s list all of them here.

  • Atopic Eczema
  • Irritant dermatitis
  • Allergic contact dermatitis
  • Stasis dermatitis
  • Fungal infections
  • Scabies
  • Dyshidrotic eczema
  • Lichen simplex chronicus
  • Nummular eczema
  • Dry Skin eczema
  • Seborrheic eczema

Here in this article we will be considering the most common type of eczema i.e.; Atopic eczema.

According to National Institutes of Health, in US 31.6 million have eczema symptoms and 17.8 million people met with AD (Atopic dermatitis) symptoms. Most of the cases are undertreated. This particular skin disease has been recognized as major health problem worldwide, one-third of world population has been affected with this disease. (source)

According to Mehmet Oz, MD, Cardiology, about 60% of children with eczema will get it before age 1, and at least 80% will develop it before age 5. Though some child may outgrow it by their tenth birthday, in most people symptoms will show on and off throughout their life time.

Many children who got affected by Atopic Eczema will develop asthma after few months or years. This is known as Atopic March. Scientist says that this is caused due to advance stages of eczema. The substance circulated through affected skin part triggers asthmatic symptoms. (source)

Symptoms of Atopic Eczema

As mentioned above atopic eczema is a chronic disease which last for longer time. So, symptoms are present all the time anyway before flare-up (red bumps) you consider few things as symptoms. They are listed below.

  • Skin becomes dry.
  • Because of dryness skin breaks at different places, mostly at feet.
  • It looks as if your skin dried up completely.
  • Itching sensation triggers in different parts of the body.
  • Itching usually worse at night.
  • When you scratch that particular skin part become thick and form patches.
  • And soon you may see red and inflamed symptoms.

Patches or red bumps may occur at any part of the body any way they most concentrate on ankles, feet, wrist, back of the knees and feet in adults. In infants, you may see red bumps on face and scalp.  Among darker skinned people atopic eczema affects pigmentation, leaving the affected area in darker or lighter color patches. Among fair skinned people initially red bumps starts and slowly with repeated scratching they turn to brown colored patches.

And when you ignore symptoms listed above or if you already those symptoms then you will have blisters appeared over your skin. These blisters with time they ooze and invite bacteria to invade making it more badly.

Avoid these things if you see eczema symptoms
  • Don’t take hot showers.
  • Apply moisturizer after bath.
  • Avoid stress.
  • In winter stay away from dry air, wrap up with a cloth and wear gloves.
  • Don’t smoke.
  • Detergents with fragrance ingredients as they may irritate your skin.

What Causes Eczema or Atopic Eczema?

Unfortunately the exact cause for eczema is unknown. Anyway after some research in 2006 scientist confirmed that gene causes dry skin, scaly skin and predisposes them to eczema. (source)

Generally atopic eczema is caused when your skin’s outer surface lose its ability to lock the moisturizer. This makes skin dry and leaves the skin itchy. This scratching triggers to more itching and leading a way for bacteria to enter and affect your skin.

And in some people this may be triggered by any contact with allergic substance, leading to skin allergy. Even stress may be the cause for itchy skin.

Hereditary is most common factor for this disease, says scientist. If one among the parents has skin allergy or asthma then there is 60% of chance of eczema in children. Unlucky if both parents have this skin disease then chance of child getting it is 80%.

Unfortunately there is no right away cure for eczema. You need to follow-up regular tips to reduce its effect.

How is eczema diagnosed?

There is no way to test your skin and tell that this is eczema, when you visit your dermatologist may ask you few questions which may include question regarding your parents, your skin condition and after examining your skin the doctor will confirm you if it’s eczema.

How is eczema treated?

Well the mere goal of treatment is not to cure or remove eczema because there is no such way to remove it completely from your body (at-least till date), so the treatment or cure is to reduce itching and flare-ups on your skin which is making you uncomfortable.

This includes creams to keep your skin moist, it’s advised to apply moisturizing cream when your skin is damp (after bath) or after washing the affected part. Just pat dry with a towel and apply moisturizing cream.

If eczema is spreading to other parts of the body then you may be suggested to apply antibiotic cream to kill bacteria which are working to spread.

In 2006 FDA approved two topical eczema drugs (Elidel and Protopic) for treating eczema anyway they come with FDA boxed warning for doctors because of the concerns over possible cancer. These drugs are for a short period, longer medication with these drugs has been avoided, anyway if patient see no recover that doctors may prescribe this medicine after sometime. (source)

Overview

Eczema is a collection of skin diseases, atopic eczema is one such common eczema found in most people. Symptoms are dry itchy skin with patches, red bumps in come cases. Main cause for eczema is not known but most scientist say that hereditary is common cause. There is no treatment anyway you’re advised to apply moisturizer, ointments prescribed by doctor, follow healthy food to maintain skin barrier. Avoid things which can stimulate itching sensation like hot bath, contact with allergic substance, dry air etc…

Eczema Pictures

Image source: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

References

  • http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17498413
  • http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/PostmarketDrugSafetyInformationforPatientsandProviders/ucm153941.htm
  • http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/14417.php
  • http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/guide/atopic-dermatitis-eczema
  • http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dermatitis
  • http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/150766.php
Natural Resource

10+ Benefits of Beetroot Juice for Skin and Health

Author ByMoin Nex

Beetroot or informally simply known as beet is getting more new coverage after a research carried out which proved that this dark red vegetable can cure blood pressure and improve blood flow.

Beet is not new; its origin can be traced back from Roman times. Romans used Beetroot to treat aphrodisiac (a thing to increase sexual desire), fever, constipation, wounds and other skin problems like acne, boils and remove dead cells. It’s a myth that beetroot is available only in red color; beetroot with white, golden and even multicolor are available.

Nutritional Facts in Beetroot

raw-beet-root-benefitsBeetroot contains rich amount of folic acid, manganese, Vitamin A, C and K. Minerals like calcium, iron, potassium, copper, sulphur, silica and chlorine are also found in Beets. Beet Juice is rich in nitrates and antioxidant which is improve blood flow and reduces blood pressure. Other nutrient things include amino acids (D amino acids, alpha amino acids), flavonoids (enhance the power of Vitamin C and protect blood vessels from leakage) and carotenoids (reduces certain cancers and eye disease.)

Before diving into benefits of Beetroot, let’s know which form is preferred.

Eat or Drink?

Beet taste described as sweet and earthy. It can be taken in raw, cooked or juiced forms.

Most vegetables are preferred to take in raw form but in beetroot case it’s different. Drinking beet juice helps you in lowering blood pressure better than other forms. When you cook beetroot the amount of nutrients in beet reduces.

By juicing you’re going to get maximum amount of phytonutrients (plant chemicals).

Related post: Spinach for skin

Benefits of Beetroot Juice for health

beetroot juice benefits for skin and health

#1 Reduce Blood Pressure

A study carried out which was published by American Heart Association journal states that nitrate in beet helps reduce blood pressure.

Few participates in Queen Mary University asked to drink beetroot juice, other group to take dummy drink and third group to take nitrate tablets. Within 24 hours it’s found that blood pressure of first group (who took beet juice) and third group (who took nitrate tablet) reduced.

#2 Increases blood flow

Beetroot contains high amount of nitrates which is converted to nitrites by bacteria. Which then helps to increase blood flow in the body thus improving brain, heart and kidney functioning.

#3 Improves Stamina

It has been proved that eating raw beet before race helped runners to get some extra advantage when compared to other runners who’re given cranberry relish for comparing.

Also while exercising, beetroot boost up your energy level to extend your workout time.

#4 Reduce sudden heart attack or strokes

Betacyanin present in Beetroot helps reduce oxidation of LDL cholesterol and removes deposits from the walls of artery. This reduces sudden heart attacks.

#5 Improves spinal cord formation in unborn child

It’s great resource for pregnant women. Folic acid in beet is responsible for protection of unborn child’s spinal cord from spina bifida.

#6 Helps Keep Diabetic under check

Initially Beetroot got popularity for its sugar content. When British stopped sugarcane production for sugar, Napoleon asked to start Beetroot production for sugar. So, diabetic patients who’ve crave for sugar are preferred to take Beetroot which is free from fat. Because Beetroot has a medium glycaemic index which releases sugar very slowly in blood. Thus, maintaining sugar level in blood.

#7 Treats Anemia

Iron content in Beetroot helps transport oxygen and nutrients which helps to treat anemia.

#8 Protect from Cancer

Betacyanin in Beetroot slows the growth of tumor by 12.5% in patients with breast cancer. (source)

#9 Beats Constipation (Helps to keep stomach clean)

Laxative, because of its high soluble fiber content. (source)

#10 Recommended diet for Obesity

Because of its rich fiber and low calorie levels it helps to lose weight. If you’re on a diet to lose weight then you must add this beetroot juice to taste plethora of health benefits.

Benefits of Beetroot Juice for Skin

Drinking Beetroot juice regularly helps skin tone smooth and healthy.

#11 Get away from dry skin and other skin diseases

Regular drinking of Beetroot juice helps to get rid of dry skin, acne and boils.

#12 Improves Skin tone and gives glowing complexion

Help, to purify blood by removing toxins and excess water from the body thus, making skin glow.

#13 You can use Beetroot face mask

Renowned for purifying blood, assorted vitamins and nutrients in beetroot works as excellent remedy to nourish skin. Topically applying its face mask will remove wrinkles and removes hyperpigmentation. Mix it with innate remedies, so that it won’t leave stains over your face.

  • Beetroot juice – 1 tbsp, 1 pinch turmeric powder, gram flour 1 tbsp and milk cream 1/2 tbsp.
  • To juice, grate raw beetroot and squeeze to have juice. Drop turmeric, milk cream and gram flour required quantities.
  • Mix it thoroughly and go for patch test over inner side of elbow. If things go right, apply it on the face and rinse it off after 15 minutes.

Optionally you can follow with a moisturizer.

#14 Removes dark spots and blemishes

You can leverage more benefits by including beetroot in your diet either in raw, cooked or juiced form. But one thing to be noted is, excess consumption of beetroot may turn urine color in pink, nothing harmful. Patients with kidney stones (because of excess calcium are advised not to include beetroot in their diet.)

Above are just few important health and skin benefits of beet. For more detailed view checkout resources below.

Image source

Resources:

  • http://www.ahajournals.org/
  • http://www.webmd.boots.com/healthy-eating/guide/beetroot-benefits
  • http://www.ageless.co.za/herb-beetroot-juice.htm
  • http://www.lovebeetroot.co.uk/healthy_info/beetroot-benefits.asp