On the surface of the skin exists an oily barrier, and if this is cracked, the result is dry and sensitive skin. The causes for the ‘cracks’ are various: hereditary factors, allergies, age or excessive sun-bathing.

As a result of this the skin structure becomes weaker, and skin irritants such as cold temperature, artificial clothing, and chemical ingredients contained in most hair care products and skin creams become a bigger problem for the skin.

Skin diseases such as dermatitis, psoriasis, rashes, rosacea and eczema are also a threat when the skin structure is weakened.

Eczema

Skin that is dry, itchy, scaly and red is attributed to eczema. About 10-20% of the world’s population suffers from eczema. Extreme pain and an extreme desire to scratch at affected areas of the skin are common to people who suffer from eczema. Skin becomes scaly and in the worst cases eczema can cause pus-filled pustules, which can open up and ooze. Permanent damage can be the result.

Eczema and Sports

Sweating seems to trigger eczema in some people. When there is high humidity this is especially true.

Sweating is a natural reaction of the body as it helps to reduce its temperature when it gets too heated. But, sweat is salty and this dehydrates the skin, triggering eczema.

Here is a list of other factors in sports that can irritate the skin:

- Team sports t-shirts: sports jerseys are made of synthetic materials that make the skin sweat even more

- Hot showers after doing exercise: the hot water dries the skin further

- Using chemical based shampoo and soap: this dries the skin

- Swimming pools: the chlorine causes further skin irritation

- Bacteria: locker rooms are a haven for microorganisms, these cause infections in already weakened skin

- Lessened skin care: not showering enough after sweating or showering too many times in one day can also cause skin damage

Dry Skin Relief

1. Lower the number of times you work out, and the intensity of each session.

2. Switch to activities which do not cause so much sweating, such as pilates.

3. Exercise in well ventilated areas with low humidity.

4. Stick to natural skin care products. These types of products will impede further irritation.

Short of giving up sports completely, the best thing to do is to use only natural products.

The key to natural skin care is all natural yet potent ingredients. For dry skin relief choose products with naturally moisturizing elements such as rose hip oil. Known in South America for decades as ‘rosa mosqueta’, rose hip oil has been used to moisturize the driest skin. An excellent choice for an eczema treatment would include rose hip oil and a regenerative substance to stimulate new cell growth in damaged skin. Choose wisely when looking at all natural skin care products, not all of them work.

There are several skin problems that we can develop such as acne vulgaris and dry skin, which are the most common among skin problems, while other such as severe acne and rashes, can be quite devastating. As for eczema and dermatitis, they fall somewhere in between.

Neither one of these conditions can be cured, but they react quite well to treatment. Keep in mind that early diagnosis and treatment is very important. If they are not treated on time, they can lead to infection.

Are you Sure you Don’t Have Dermatitis?

Dermatitis is used to describe a group of skin problems that are characterized by inflammation and irritation. All of the problems grouped under dermatitis are the result of some type of allergic reaction. In other words, dermatitis is a term used to refer to a rash on the skin.

Do you have Eczema?

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a type of dermatitis. Eczema symptoms include skin dryness, itching, skin redness and inflammation. If it is left untreated, eczema can escalate into cracking skin, oozing, and bleeding.

This condition worsens with age so it is very important that you treat it. Making sure that you get the right diagnosis is also very important.

Find out how to Deal with Eczema and Dermatitis

The general procedure for treating dermatitis begins with identifying the allergen. Treatment has to do with knowing what triggers the dermatitis and avoiding it. While eczema, on the other hand, is a bit more difficult to treat.

To date, experts still disagree on the causes of eczema. There does seem to be a connection to genetics and specific triggers. Treatment is based on topical products and on avoiding these specific triggers.

Commonly, hot and humid weather can trigger flare-ups of eczema. Physical contact with dry, itchy fabric can also cause redness and irritation. Embarrassment and blushing are also factors the lead to eczema flare-ups.

However, these aren’t the only triggers, so it is important that you identify what sets off your eczema so that you can treat it successfully. For example, if heat seems to trigger your eczema then try sipping cool water to keep your core temperature down. Exercising in places that are well ventilated will also help keep your temperature under control.

Changing your skin care routine can also help minimize eczema flare-ups. Try using natural skin care balms, dry skin lotions, and healing balms instead of traditional products. Remember, natural skin care products contain less irritants than traditional products and can keep your eczema from acting up.

Before going out to purchase the first natural product you find keep in mind that some natural extracts can also irritate your skin. In order to avoid this, keep away from products that contain menthol, cinnamon, ylang-ylang among others.

BIOSKINBALM is a gentle skin care product that can be used for dry skin care. It contains snail serum which is ideal for the treatment of all kinds of rashes. This natural eczema cream is a great addition to your skin care treatment, especially if you have sensitive skin.

The skin care effects of Eczema can be tremendous on the individuals psyche. In addition, there’s no real cure for this irritating skin disorder that effects more the 20 millions North Americans.

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