The epithelial (skin) inflammation that occurs in eczema is a consequence of immune-mediated inflammatory processes that are constantly being heightened and fed within the body. There are always unique factors (like food) that are contributing to this cycle, and until we can identify and treat them, then the cycle just continues.
So, what factors can we look at to help heal eczema holistically and naturally?
We need to consider the genetic predispositions, environmental influence, allergenic picture, infection and immune function that each person with eczema has. All of these factors will play a part in the progression and management of their eczema.
It has been shown that your risk of developing eczema increases if:
your mother has or had eczema or eczema in her family history (genetic predisposition)
your mother consumed dairy whilst pregnant with you
you live in urban areas with higher levels of pollution
you live in colder climates (due to lack of moisture and irritation to the skin)
The gut also plays a significant role in eczema due to the intrinsic interrelation of the gut and the immune system. I work closely with balancing the microbiome of the gut and healing the lining of the gut to reduce allergenic responses and dampen the cycle of inflammation that’s fed from the inside when there’s compromised gut function.
In my experience, there are always these main drivers to assess and treat from the inside out:
Dietary triggers
Removing items that are increasing inflammatory processes, along with those that we know are triggering to eczema and damaging to the gut, like gluten and dairy. I always start with personalised food analysis using a small sample of hair or saliva, so that we can immediately remove items that are not compatible with your body. We also explore potential food allergies and intolerances.
Immune system dysregulation
The immune system needs to be calmed down, and given some input that tells it that it doesn’t need to fight everything all the time. Eczema is also often coupled with allergenic reactions like hayfever, which increases the importance of focusing on immune system balance. I do this with hypoallergenic herbs and nutrients.
Skin barrier function
This needs to be improved with essential fatty acids, along with topical assistance to help heal and calm whilst encouraging better skin barrier function to reduce likelihood of secondary infection. Skin barrier function is affected by diet, immune-mediated inflammation, trauma to the skin by scratching or infection, and also topical steroid/cortisone creams.
Gut and microbiome
Repairing damage to the gut and creating a healthy environment for a healthy microbiome is essential in long-term changes to eczema. Often, the microbiome has been disrupted since infancy in those suffering with eczema due to the use of steroid medications and antibiotics.
Skin microbiome
The microbiome of the skin is affected by skin barrier function, and changes according to environment and trauma to the skin. The microbiome of the skin (microbiome = ecosystem of bacteria that inhabit a certain area of the body) incorporates bacteria that naturally live on the skin that cause harm, don’t cause harm and everything in between. Bacteria that don’t cause harm are called commensal bacteria. They take up space on the landscape of our skin, so that harmful bacteria don’t have room to grow and cause infection. When there is a change in our skin microbiome, then harmful bacteria have the potential to grow and cause infection, which is one of the biggest problems with eczema. The microbiome of the skin can be influenced by the microbiome of the gut and use of probiotics.
There’s so many facets to explore with eczema, and creating a personalised approach that will help to bring things back into balance that have been out of whack for you (or your baby).
