The worst thing that anybody can say to somebody who has eczema is ... 'Don't scratch'.
Although great advice, its probably one of THE most hardest things to not do. Imagine feeling tiny little things moving around under your skin and then when you scratch you feel relieved and soothed, it truly is the best feeling, it's like a massage.
The Scratch Cycle
Living with eczema is not easy and can be very depressing causing suicidal thoughts, unhappiness and worthlessness. It is important that we do not pacify how somebody feels whilst living with eczema.
Honestly, nobody wants to scratch knowing that the scratch will exaggerate their problem but it is a temporary sense of relief. I have also found a warm (not hot) towel also helps subside the itch.
It is important that we understand the itch cycle and know the importance of using products which can help your skin.
Below is an image (sourced from www.healthmatch.io) which highlights the itch-scratch cycle.
When selecting an emollient it is important to to look out for ingredients which aide in working with your body in order to respond to its reaction.
1. Itch - Inflammatory signals are sent
2. Scratch - Break down of skin layers allowing germs, allergens to get in
3. Inflammatory Signals - Immune system response to allergens and germs
4. Damaged Skin - Skin barrier breakdown
When the skin barrier is broken down, the skin experiences loss of water and becomes dehydrated which further propels itchiness of the skin.
At Nzema Appolo, our skincare products have been carefully selected and curated to ensure that we are targeting the very ailments our skin presents, helping to heal, restore and rejuvenate the skin.
A majority of our skincare oils have anti-inflammatory, anti-histamines, anti-bacterial, soothing, cell rebuilding and hydrating compounds. Our oils have lipids which are similar to that within our body and work together to restore our skin. When we use products which have steroids, acids, chemicals and synthetics, our already damaged skin, and immune system now need to fight the foreign agents which are being applied.
If you are new to our skincare products, get started with Nzema Appolo Cold-Pressed Jojoba Oil, this oil is very light and easily absorbed by the skin and we call it our super oil.
Nzema Appolo Cold-Pressed Jojoba Oil is packed with so much natural goodness and has 98% natural vitamin E which gets to work. We recommend using oils for both day and night time skincare routine. Preferably without mixing it with other products so it can work its magic on its on.
If you have extra-dry skin, we advise you use our unrefined shea butter, which is deeply moisturising, protects, and hydrates the skin. Our shea butter also relieves itchiness and calms any flare ups.
Be patient when using natural products, it can take some up to 3 months to start seeing real change.
Remember you are beautiful, regardless of the condition of your skin - hold onto that, grow it and help normalise what is normal.