Eczema and Dermatitis
What is eczema?
Atopic dermatitis or eczema is an itchy, dry, hypersensitive skin disorder that can affect people of any age, but is most common in children and young adults. An itching rash that may be red and blistering in children, or dry, scaly and thickened in adults occurs typically on the inner elbows, backs of knees, ankles, wrists, face, neck and upper chest.
Eczema prevention
The exact cause of atopic eczema is unknown, although it is considered a hereditary condition. Diet and particular foods rarely provoke attacks, perhaps in about 10% of sufferers. Environmental factors such as dust, certain fabrics, household cleaning products and skin care products are more likely to cause the condition to worsen.
Household cleansers, detergents, soap, petrochemicals, synthetic colours, fragrance and solvents are a common cause for breakouts. By limiting contact with these irritating substances and preventing the skin from drying out, the risk of causing eczema to flare up is significantly lessened.
How can rose hip oil help?
Eczema sufferers have skin that is low in essential fatty acids and exhibits enormous water loss. This causes the skin to become tight, dry and scaly and can lead to cracking, itchiness and flaking. To compound the problem, everyday skin care products contain soap, harsh detergents and alcohol that further strip the skin of its natural oil and cause it to become unbalanced.
Rose hip oil has a pH balance of 5.1, similar to the natural oil produced by our skin. Its high content of essential fatty acids creates a fine occlusive film over the surface of the skin that holds in moisture and prevents the skin from becoming dehydrated and scaly. In addition, the anti- inflammatory properties of Rose Hip Oil help to prevent recurring infection.
Rose hip oil helps to repair damaged skin tissue and increases elasticity, minimizing future scarring that can eventuate from persistent scratching. It is also effective in improving the appearance of old scars.