What is psoriasis, rosacea and eczema?
When it comes to inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis), rosacea, and psoriasis, it can be hard to determine which you might actually have since they may present themselves with similar symptoms. However, there are a couple of factors that help differentiate one condition from the other. Whichever you are living with, one thing is for sure; there are natural solutions that help you combat symptoms naturally and say goodbye to uncomfortable skin once and for all!
What is eczema?
Eczema is a common skin condition that is caused by the inflammation of the skin. It displays as red, dry, scaly patches of skin that are often itchy and cracked. While it can appear at any age, 90% of all cases are diagnosed before the age of 5. It is defined as a chronic condition, so there may be periods of remission and periods of flare-ups.
The causes of atopic eczema are still unknown, though it’s thought to have a genetic predisposition. Improper function of the skin’s natural barrier, poor immune health, and environmental factors are also thought to play a part in development. Natural skincare products for eczema often have great results. Natural treatments for it, often includes a combination of a good skincare routine and lifestyle changes to avoid known triggers, including extreme heat, sweat, stress, certain fabrics, or an allergy.
What is rosacea?
Rosacea is most common in fair-skinned individuals between the ages of 30 - 50. Symptoms primarily occur on the face and include flushing/blushing, hotness, bumps, redness, and swelling. Typically, symptoms follow a pattern of the face’s central areas being affected first, then spreading over time to the outer cheeks, forehead, and chin. People may also experience pus-filled, red bumps and visible blood vessels.
Rosacea is thought to be caused by a combination of environmental and hereditary factors. Unfortunately, there is no permanent treatment for rosacea. Natural skincare products for rosacea, like topical treatments are aimed to reduce symptoms by constricting blood vessels and fighting inflammation by reducing bacteria on the skin. Common triggers that cause rosacea to worsen include temperature extremes, skincare products that contain alcohol, UV rays from the sun, and spicy foods.
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a persistent skin condition characterized by the multiplying of skin cells faster than the average rate. The volume of cells causes raised, red plaque-covered patches with scaly white skin. It’s often found on the elbows, scalp, knees, torso, and feet soles. It can be painful and itchy as the skin usually cracks and bleeds.
Factors that may trigger psoriasis include injury to the skin, infections, or sunburn. It can also be brought on by medication reactions or stress. There is also more than 45% heritability in families, meaning if family members have it, you probably do too.
What are some natural treatment options for these skin conditions?
Many people suffering from these ailments know how difficult it can be to treat since they are inflammatory conditions. Topical and oral treatments can keep flare-ups at bay, and there are natural treatment options that have been shown to be effective when fighting for clear, healthy skin.
- Look for topical products that contain beeswax
One of the best natural treatments for inflammatory conditions is beeswax since it provides skin barrier protection and promotes skin regeneration. Beeswax is full of natural healing properties that can combat stubborn symptoms and protect the skin from environmental triggers. By providing a layer of protection to the skin, beeswax can also help lock in moisture to prevent skin from drying out, leading to more severe flareups.
Additionally, beeswax is full of vitamin A and antibacterial properties that can promote new skin cell growth and fight off infection, leading to quicker healing times and reduced skin inflammation.
One of our favorite Keepers Collective products to help fight against inflammatory skin conditions is Keepers Secret Salve. It can be applied directly to clean skin as needed to soothe, repair, and strengthen the skin.
- Opt for an anti-inflammatory diet
Certain foods can cause or reduce internal inflammation in the body. By choosing to eat a diet filled with anti-inflammatory foods, you are significantly reducing the potential of immune response flare-ups like eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. Examples of anti-inflammatory foods include
- Leafy greens (spinach, kale, collard greens)
- Beans and lentils
- Dark berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, acai berries)
- Fatty fish (salmon, tuna, sardines)
- Turmeric
- Avocados
- Choose gentle soaps, detergents, and skincare products
Many soaps and cosmetics contain detergents to help create a soapy lather. While visually satisfying, these lathering agents can dry out the skin and intensify conditions due to their alkalinity. When choosing cleansers, try gentle, natural products that steer away from artificial colors and fragrances. One thing to remember is always to keep the skin moisturized! Moisturizing creams, emollients, and serums are perfect for keeping the skin feeling hydrated and comfortable. Our whipped body butter, formulated with pure raw honey, propolis, natural butters, hydrating oils, vitamin e, and skin-living essential oils, is a perfect option for those facing dry, cracked, and damaged skin.
- Reduce your stress levels
While easier said than done, cutting down on stress can help shake off unwanted symptoms. Consider taking time out of your day for meditation, deep breathing, or calming yoga practice. Not only will it cut back on stress, but you could also help ease joint pain and other irritating symptoms that are exacerbated by hormone fluctuations.
Are you looking to swap your skincare routine to all-natural, eco-friendly products? Read about our honey face wash and how it can reveal your brightest, healthiest skin!