Skin Concerns - Eczema

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Eczema is an inflammation of the skin, usually causing itching and sometimes accompanied by crusting, scaling, or blisters. Eczema affects nearly a third of Australians during some stage of their life.

Often (but not always), it will develop near the crooks of the elbows or knees with small, itchy bumps. Sometimes it initially looks like small bites. It can then spread from there with itching.

Scratching the skin can worsen the appearance of affected areas, which typically appear very dry, thickened, or scaly. Exposure to allergens worsens a type of Eczema known as "Atopic Dermatitis." Dry skin is often susceptible to a type called "Dry Skin Dermatitis."

Experts believe that Eczema is linked to an overactive response by the body's immune system to a perceived irritant. This can happen inside your body, such as when you eat something. It can also happen outside your body. This occurs when you come into contact with pollen or a skin product.

Common external irritants include pollen and dust mites, skin care products or very dry skin. Common internal irritants can be reactions to fruit, nuts or dairy products. However, there are many other possible irritants and they can be very hard to identify.

The best long-term solution for Eczema is to try and eliminate the cause of the reaction. However, finding the trigger can take time. Eliminating suspect items from the diet or skin for a week to check for improvement is one common method used to search for triggers. Allergy specialists can also help.

To bring relief, medical practitioners will often prescribe an anti-inflammatory cortisone (steroid) ointment. This is very effective but is generally recommended for short-term use or as advised by your practitioner.

Using a topical steroid cream or ointment can also cause side effects such as topical steroid withdrawal. This occurs when you use too much or stop the steroids too quickly which can cause rebound symptoms such as burning, redness, and itchy skin.

MooGoo Eczema and Psoriasis Cream, AUSTL196718 is a steroid-free, lightweight cream for the symptomatic relief of mild Eczema, Dermatitis & mild Psoriasis. This cream can be used whenever the skin becomes itchy or dry. Less itch, less spreading.

Eczema in Children

Eczema in children is a non-contagious skin condition which is quite common affecting around 10% of babies. It usually appears in early childhood and disappears around six years of age. The skin becomes dry, cracked and itchy, and may weep. It often starts at the elbows or knees.

Eczema can vary in severity and alter on a daily basis. In some cases, Eczema may continue into adulthood.

The immune system of children is immature and so many react inappropriately to a perceived irritant. This could be something on their skin, a food or a drink. Eczema is more common in children who have other allergies, such as asthma and hay fever.

Practitioners can help find the cause of the response. Parents can also try to identify the irritant through trial and error. Children will often "grow" out of the problem as their immune system matures. However, that is of little comfort right now to the baby who has Eczema, and the parents who are missing out on sleep.

There is some more useful information on Infant Eczema here: http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/diseases/facts/infantileeczema.htm

What MooGoo Makes for Eczema

Always see your medical practitioner for advice on Eczema. We created a cream that is free of steroids and is lightweight. It quickly absorbs into the skin to help relieve symptoms of Eczema, Psoriasis, or Dermatitis.

This is suitable for children and adults and they can use it whenever the skin becomes sensitive and as often as needed. We list all our ingredients on our website, so you can check they are natural and healthy before purchase. If symptoms persist, consult your health care practitioner.

Choose from the MooGoo Eczema and Psoriasis Cream, AUSTL196718, Eczema and Psoriasis Cream with Marshmallow, Elderberry & More, AUSTL196727, or Baby Eczema and Psoriasis Cream, AUSTL335464. Always read the label. If symptoms persist consult your health care practitioner.