Eczema is a very common group of skin conditions that cause the symptoms of dry, itchy, inflamed or to have a red, rash like appearance. There are several types of eczema with the most common types being atopic eczema, contact dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis.
Eczema is not contagious and whilst we do not fully understand the causes, genes may be implicated since eczema does run in families and it may also develop due to external irritants such as chemicals used in bathing and on the face.
Eczema can develop anywhere on the body including the face, around the eyes and on the eyelids, hands and feet. Eczema can develop from early childhood
Many people with eczema find success using natural and alternative treatments to help provide relief from itching and to combat dry skin. Non-prescription eczema creams often contain herbs such as Chamomile and Nettle to calm the inflammation and relieve the itching whilst medicated creams with hydrocortisone suppress inflammation but are not without side effects with long term use.
Topical application of apple cider vinegar for eczema may also prove to be useful. This is because people with eczema have a higher skin pH which prevents normal skin barrier function including the production of Natural Moisturising Factors. Application of apple cider vinegar with its low pH restores skin’s natural pH levels are often improves skin’s appearance.
