Dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin and there are many different types. The most common type, known as contact dermatitis, appears as an itchy, red rash and is usually caused by coming into contact with substances that irritate the skin over a period of time, such as detergents and soaps. However, it can also be caused by experiencing an allergic reaction to a substance which results in the symptoms occurring directly after coming into contact with the allergens.
The terms eczema and dermatitis are sometimes used interchangeably, but in fact, eczema refers to a specific type of dermatitis called atopic dermatitis which is very common, especially in young children and is thought to be caused by an abnormal functioning of the immune system.
Other types of dermatitis include neurodermititis (itchy skin in a small, specific area), seborrheic dermatitis or cradle cap (a yellowish, oily, scaly rash most common in infants), stasis dermatitis (skin irritation caused by a fluid build beneath the skin, especially in the legs) and periorial dermatitis (a rash around the mouth or nose).
Most dermatitis is caused by contact with the following substances:
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Poison Ivy/Poison Oak.
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Flowers/herbs and some plants.
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Burns/sunburn.
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Chemical irritants (e.g chlorine, cleansers, detergents and soaps, fabric softeners, glue etc).
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Nickel.
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Fragrances.
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Rubber.
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Hairdressing chemicals.
However, it is thought that dermatitis can be caused or worsened by exposure to extreme temperatures, and stress.
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Red rash
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Red bumps
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Itching
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Dry, red patches
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Blisters
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Oozing lesions
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Dry, crusty skin
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Homeopathy such as the homeopathic remedies, Arsen alb and Hepar sulph have been traditionally used to help with dermatitis. (Always read the label on a product.)
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Acupuncture - several studies have shown that acupuncture can be helpful in the treatment of dermatitis.
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Natural medicine such as Nelsons Graphites Cream can soothe and protect sensitive skin against the irritation and discomfort caused by all types of dermatitis. (Always read the label on a product.)
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Aromatherapy oils such as tea tree oil, bergamot, lavender and Roman Chamomile can be useful in treating dermatitis. Try an aromatherapy massage with these oils or just add a few drops into a warm bath.
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Food sensitivity and health balancing - identifying allergies to specific foods can help you avoid imbibing substances that you’re allergic to and that may cause dermatitis.
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Dead Sea baths are a great way to alleviate stress and help skin conditions like dermatitis. Just throw a few handfuls of Dead Sea salt into a warm bath and soak for twenty minutes, a couple of times a week.
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Avoid dairy products. This can often clear up an outbreak of dermatitis. Try swapping dairy products with soy alternatives for a few days and see if it makes a difference.
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Drink Dandelion tea as this is often suggested by sufferers as a great way to relieve symptoms of dermatitis.
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Vitamin supplements* such as B-12, can help promote healthy skin. Take Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids to inhibit inflammation and Vitamin E to help relieve itching and dryness. A Zinc supplement can aid healing and immune function that could help sufferers of dermatitis.
* A vitamin supplement must not be used as a substitute for a balanced diet and health lifestyle.
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