Eczema: The Condition That Bothers and Itches

Often starting in childhood, eczema typically subsides during adolescence. However, many adults continue to grapple with this persistent skin issue. Also known as dermatitis, eczema is one of the most common skin conditions, encompassing various ailments affecting the outermost layer of the skin. Inflammation, irritation, dryness, and redness are hallmark symptoms. Here, we’ll break down two of the most common types of eczema among the five known varieties, explore their causes, and discuss practical solutions.

Understanding the Skin as a Protective Barrier

The skin is a living organ whose primary role is to act as a protective shield. Healthy, well-hydrated skin is elastic and impermeable, allowing it to resist external aggressors such as dust, microbes, and mites, while minimizing water loss. However, individuals with atopic (dry) skin have underperforming sebaceous glands, leading to insufficient sebum production. This results in skin that struggles to retain moisture and is prone to dehydration—often the first visible sign of dry skin. External irritants like dust and microbes can penetrate the skin, triggering inflammation (redness) as the immune system reacts.

The Role of White Blood Cells

Within the skin, white blood cells act as “soldiers,” recognizing and attacking foreign agents that penetrate the skin. Unfortunately, these cells may perceive harmless substances as threats, triggering an inflammatory response. This manifests as redness and itching, as the white blood cells attempt to destroy the “contaminated” skin. Scratching exacerbates the issue by breaking the skin further, allowing more irritants to enter and perpetuating a vicious cycle.

Types of Eczema

1. Contact Eczema
   Contact eczema typically arises from exposure to allergens and does not have a genetic predisposition. When the skin comes into contact with an allergen, it becomes sensitized, and eczema can develop at the point of contact. Repeated exposure to the allergen may cause recurring outbreaks.
2. Atopic Eczema
   Affecting 1 in 5 individuals (20%), atopic eczema often has a genetic component, with 70% of cases linked to hereditary factors. This type involves skin dryness (xerosis) and symptoms triggered by immune system dysregulation. Family history may reveal other atopic tendencies, such as asthma, rhinitis, pollen allergies, or food allergies. The term "atopic" refers to a fragile skin barrier, which may also extend to respiratory mucous membranes, explaining the association with respiratory symptoms.

Solutions: Restoring the Skin Barrier

The first step in managing eczema is to restore the skin’s barrier by reducing irritants:

• Avoid scratching itchy areas with fingernails.
• Opt for cotton clothing instead of irritant fabrics like polyester.
• Use gentle cleansing products such as oil-based washes or syndets (synthetic detergents), avoiding harsh soaps or gels.

Dry air, prolonged hot showers, and baths can worsen skin dehydration. Addressing inflammation is the next critical phase.

Hydration and Nourishment

For eczema-prone skin, restoring moisture and replenishing fats are essential. A range of specific products is available at Familiprix to address these needs.

• Thermal Water
  Thermal water can be applied as a compress to eczema patches, soothing itching and irritation. Suitable for the face, body, and even eyelids, it’s a must-have for calming sensitive skin.
• Targeted Creams
  • Dexyane Med Palpebral by Ducray is recommended for eyelid eczema. Enriched with shea butter (rich in vitamins A and E) and beeswax, it promotes cellular renewal and has antioxidant and healing properties.
  • SOS Formula by Jouviance also contains shea butter and ceramides, helping the skin retain moisture and restore its barrier. Ideal for small affected areas, it is versatile enough for the face, body, and eyelids.
• Shower Oils
  Relipidating shower oils soothe the skin and reduce itching. Options include Bioderma, Uriage, La Roche-Posay, Avène, and Ducray. For those who prefer bar soaps, over-the-counter brands like La Roche-Posay and Bleu Lavande offer surgras formulations.
• Body Balms
  Richer and more protective than body creams, balms are ideal for addressing severe dryness. Available brands include La Roche-Posay, Bioderma, Avène, and Ducray.
• Lip Care
  Lip balms containing castor oil or beeswax are highly effective. Popular options include Avène's "Cold Cream" balm, perfect for outdoor activities in winter, and Nuxe's balm, known for its high beeswax content and delightful fragrance.

A Note on Diagnosis

It’s important to remember that eczema diagnosis is clinical and should be made by a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or dermatologist. This article is informational and does not replace a consultation with a qualified expert.

By Jean-Michel Tremblay, Assistant Chief Beautician – Pharmacie Stéfanie Ouellet, affiliated with Familiprix.