Eczema , also known as atopic dermatitis , presents as a chronic inflammatory skin condition affecting the skin with multifactorial origins. While fully understanding the causes of eczema remains a challenge, it is generally accepted that several genetic, environmental, and immune elements interact to trigger this condition. Here is an in-depth exploration of the main causes of eczema and available treatments:
Genetic factors
Genetic predispositions significantly influence the development of this condition. The occurrence of eczema, asthma, or allergic rhinitis in a family can increase an individual's vulnerability. Certain genetic mutations are associated with a predisposition to eczema, highlighting the impact of heredity. People with a family history of allergic diseases often require tailored care and personalized treatments to better manage their condition.
Altered immune response
A common characteristic of people with eczema is that they often have an "unbalanced" immune response. Their immune system overreacts to "harmless" elements and/or stimuli (animal hair, pollen, perfume, etc.), causing inflammation and itching (pruritus). This imbalance plays a key role in the onset and intensification of symptoms, requiring appropriate care.
Compromised skin barrier
The skin can be compared to a castle, providing essential protection against external aggressions. This castle is made of bricks, representing skin cells, and cement, which is the intercellular space composed of lipids and water. This cement plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the skin and preventing pathogens from penetrating.
When the skin is healthy, the castle wall is strong, and enemies such as viruses, bacteria, and allergens cannot penetrate this protective barrier. It's a bit like a well-guarded castle, where no intruder can penetrate.
However, when the bricks become weakened or the cement between the cells is insufficient, cracks appear. These cracks allow external agents to easily penetrate, causing irritation, itching, or other skin symptoms.
To maintain this natural protection, it is essential to keep the skin well hydrated and protected. By taking care of this skin barrier, we can ensure that the "castle" remains strong and continues to provide effective defense against external aggressions.
A weakened skin barrier function is a major cause of eczema. When the skin's protective barrier is compromised, allergens and irritants, such as certain chemicals or pollens, can penetrate the skin more easily, triggering inflammatory reactions. This process results in typical eczema symptoms, such as redness, itching, and patches of dry skin.
Thus, maintaining the integrity of the skin barrier becomes essential not only for preserving overall skin health, but also for preventing and managing eczema. Appropriate care, such as the use of moisturizers and gentle products, is necessary to restore and strengthen this barrier, thus limiting the risk of irritation and eczema flare-ups.
Environmental factors
Eczema is often triggered or aggravated by various environmental irritants. These factors can disrupt the skin, leading to symptoms like itching and redness. Identifying and minimizing exposure to these irritants is essential for better management of the condition. Here is a non-exhaustive list of the main eczema triggers:
1. Cosmetic, chemical and detergent products
- Scented soaps, hair coloring, perfumes
- Cleaning products, laundry detergent, etc.
2. Climate change
- Extreme temperatures, humidity variations, air conditioning, etc.
3. Airborne allergens
- Pollen, dust mites, animal hair...
4. Physical irritants
- Fabrics like wool
- Rub the skin
5. Food and drinks
- Allergenic foods
- Alcohol
6. Stress and emotions
- Emotional stress: fatigue...
7. Infections and bacteria
- Skin infections
Reducing exposure to these factors can help better control eczema and prevent flare-ups.
Dry skin
Dry skin , commonly associated with eczema, contributes to a fragile skin barrier. Lack of moisture can lead to cracks in the skin, allowing irritants and allergens to penetrate. Regular use of moisturizers is essential to maintain adequate hydration and thus prevent and alleviate eczema symptoms.
Allergic responses
Although eczema is not strictly an allergic reaction , certain allergens, whether food or environmental, can trigger allergic responses in some people with eczema.
Eczema can occur at any time, even in response to factors we've been accustomed to for a long time, such as a food or perfume we've used for years. What's often surprising and confusing is that we can develop a skin reaction to something that has never caused a problem before. This shows how sensitive skin is and how its reactions can change over time, requiring constant vigilance to identify new triggers.
This complex interrelationship between allergies and eczema requires a personalized approach to treatment, including consultation with a dermatologist or allergist to identify specific allergens and tailor care accordingly.
Stress
Stress and skin are closely linked, especially when it comes to eczema . Emotional stress can exacerbate symptoms of this condition, trigger flare-ups, or worsen chronic phases of the disease. While the exact link between stress and eczema is not fully understood, it is essential to consider mental well-being when managing this condition. Complementary treatments aimed at reducing stress, such as relaxation or emotional management, can benefit patients, contributing to better symptom control.
Skin infections
Skin infections , particularly those caused by bacteria such as staphylococcus, can aggravate eczema. Increased monitoring and appropriate management of skin infections, often in collaboration with a dermatologist, are therefore essential in the treatment of eczema in patients. It is crucial to emphasize that the response to these factors can vary from one person to another, sometimes making it difficult to identify a single cause. An individualized approach, with the support of a dermatologist or specialist physician, is often necessary for effective eczema management. This ensures comprehensive and personalized care, taking into account the complexity of the interactions between genetic, immune, and environmental factors involved in this chronic inflammatory skin condition.
It's also important to highlight the growing interest in products containing prebiotics in the management of eczema. Prebiotics are substances that nourish and stimulate the growth of good bacteria on the skin, thus strengthening the skin barrier. By promoting a healthy microbial balance, these products can help reduce inflammation and prevent skin infections, helping to soothe and protect the skin of eczema sufferers. Their regular use, alongside traditional treatments, can therefore play a valuable role in maintaining skin health.
WHO ?
Eczema can affect people of all ages, from infants and babies to adults. However, it is more common in children and tends to decrease in severity with age. Here are some considerations regarding population groups likely to be affected by eczema:
- Infants and Young Children: Eczema is often diagnosed in infants and young children. Rashes can appear on the face, cheeks, neck, scalp, arms, and legs. Using creams suitable for babies' delicate skin is essential in the treatment and care of eczema. Most children often outgrow eczema as they grow.
- School-aged children: Older children can also be affected by eczema, although severity can vary. Common areas for rashes include the creases of the elbows and knees. Proper care, including regular use of moisturizers and other treatment products, can help manage symptoms in these children.
- Adolescents and adults: Some people continue to live with eczema into adolescence and adulthood. Symptoms can evolve, and rashes can appear on different parts of the body. In adults, eczema patches may be more persistent, requiring specific treatments and regular care to manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
- Family history: Individuals with a family history of eczema, asthma, or allergic rhinitis may be more predisposed to developing eczema. Genetic factors appear to play a key role in susceptibility to this condition. Patients with such a history can benefit from preventive advice from dermatologists and appropriate treatments in the early stages of the disease.
- People with allergic conditions: People with allergies, such as those to pollen, dust mites, or certain foods, may be more prone to developing eczema. There is often a correlation between eczema and other allergic conditions, requiring an integrated approach in treatments and care led by a dermatologist to effectively manage symptoms.
- Environment and Lifestyle: Environmental factors, such as exposure to allergens, irritants, or climate changes, can also influence the onset or worsening of eczema symptoms. Adopting a healthy lifestyle and minimizing the use of harsh products can help reduce the impact of these factors on the skin.
It's important to note that eczema can vary greatly from person to person, both in severity and the areas of the body affected. Eczema care and treatment can be tailored based on age, symptom severity, and other individual factors. In all cases, consulting a dermatologist or other healthcare professional is recommended for an accurate diagnosis and advice on eczema management, in order to provide personalized care for each patient.
Types of Eczema
There are different types of eczema , including atopic eczema and contact eczema. Atopic eczema , already discussed, is generally linked to genetic and immune factors, primarily affecting the skin. In contrast, contact eczema occurs as a direct reaction to a specific irritant or allergen, such as certain soaps, metals, or plants. Understanding the distinction between these types can help identify specific triggers and tailor management strategies, including the use of appropriate creams and other targeted treatments.
Impact of Diet on Eczema
In some people, especially children, food allergens such as eggs, milk, peanuts, soy, wheat, seafood, and tree nuts can trigger or worsen eczema symptoms. It is recommended to consult a doctor or allergist to identify potential food triggers so that diet and appropriate treatments can be tailored accordingly, thus promoting better skin care management.
Skin Care Recommendations
A proper skin care routine is essential for managing eczema. Daily application of emollients or moisturizers helps maintain skin moisture and strengthen the skin barrier. It's recommended to use fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products, avoid harsh soaps, and take short, lukewarm baths or showers. Additionally, choosing clothing made from natural fibers like cotton or linen can help minimize skin irritation, reducing inflammation and promoting better skin condition.
Our products
Doucéa offers a range of treatments specially designed for very dry skin and/or skin prone to atopy.
DOUTOPIA : restorative care cream with Prebiotics and Madecassoside - cortisone-free!
This rich cream is specifically formulated to deeply moisturize and quickly soothe feelings of skin discomfort, while effectively restoring the skin's barrier. Incorporating Madecassoside (from Centella Asiatica) and prebiotics, it minimizes irritation and helps alleviate eczema symptoms. Its lightweight texture absorbs quickly for immediate relief without leaving a greasy or sticky residue.
Properties
- Repairs and soothes very dry and atopic skin
- Soothes irritation and redness thanks to Madecassoside, an anti-inflammatory and healing active ingredient
- Maintains long-lasting hydration
- Protects and strengthens the skin barrier
Dermatologically tested - Fragrance-free
Benefits
- Provides immediate relief from feelings of discomfort (itching, inflammation) and dryness
- Rich but non-greasy, non-sticky texture
- Fast absorption , for daily comfort
Ingredients
- Madecassoside : An effective calming and anti-inflammatory agent, reduces irritation and redness.
- Inulin (Prebiotic): Adjusts the skin microbiome to strengthen the skin's natural defenses, providing optimal protection.
- Trio of nourishing oils: Sweet Almond Oil, Sunflower Oil, Jojoba Oil – Nourishes, repairs and soothes fragile skin, while protecting the skin barrier and maintaining long-lasting hydration.
- Hydrating Sugar Complex (Xylitylglucoside, Xylitol, Glucose): Retains water in the skin for optimal hydration.
- Tocopherol (Vitamin E) : Antioxidant that protects the skin from external aggressions.
Use
Apply morning and/or evening to clean, dry skin. Massage gently until completely absorbed, paying particular attention to the driest or eczema-prone areas (face or other affected areas).
