Eczema, a chronic skin condition that causes inflammation and itchiness, is usually characterized by red or black, brown-coloured patches which are itchy and inflamed on the skin. Some symptoms also include the skin being dry and cracked, darkening of the areas around the eyes and oozing from affected areas.
A report published by the Eczema Council revealed that approx. 223 million people were living with eczema in 2022. Out of this number, around 43 million people affected were aged 1-4.
Research has further proven that there is a strong link between genetics and eczema. The family one hails from also sheds light on whether a person is prone to eczema or not. If an individual’s parents or siblings have experienced eczema, their risk of developing it is higher. But aside this, variations in an individual’s genes also plays a role.
Let’s Get Technical
The filaggrin gene, which is responsible for maintaining a healthy skin barrier, when affected by mutations, compromises the skin’s ability to protect itself. This leads to the development of eczema in an individual. Research shows that with about 50 percent of people living with eczema, a filaggrin mutation in their DNA sequence causes their cells to produce less filaggrin. This compromises the skin’s upper layer leading to dryness and skin prone to infections and allergic reactions.
Environmental Irritants
But while genetics lay the groundwork, environmental factors also play a significant role in eczema development. Allergens and irritants such as detergents, soaps, and air fresheners, and also negative lifestyle choices such as an unhealthy diet can trigger or exacerbate eczema symptoms. Therefore, there is a complex interplay between genetics, environment and diet.
O No...Not My Diet!
One should be mindful of their triggers, especially in food, so as to avoid the mismanagement of their eczema symptoms. Some foods that have been highlighted as eczema triggers include milk, nuts, citrus and spices such as cinnamon and cloves.
Alas - Managing Eczema
Despite genetic predispositions, environment and diet, there are proactive steps one can take to manage eczema which includes using natural skincare products and reducing skincare routines tot he bare minimal.
Queen Jojoba Oil
Using 100% natural skincare products ensures that there are no chemicals or fragrances which can further agitate the skin, but rather the natural compounds can aide the skin by working with your body and providing it with elements which it already works with. A great example of the latter is Jojoba Oil - our hero skincare oil at Nzema Appolo, check out its benefits below (source healthline.com);
Jojoba oil is a humectant ingredient - This means that it works to attract water to the top layer of the skin, helping to keep the skin hydrated. This may help prevent bacterial infections, acne, and dandruff from forming.
Jojoba oil contains natural forms of vitamin E. This vitamin works with your skin as an antioxidant. This means that jojoba oil can help your skin fight oxidative stress caused by everyday exposure to pollutants and other toxins.
Although jojoba oil is a botanical substance, its makeup is so similar to the oil (sebum) your body naturally produces that your skin can’t tell the difference. When you put jojoba oil on your skin, your skin is soothed and moisturized. This sends a signal to your hair and sweat follicles that your skin doesn’t need additional sebum for hydration.
On a molecular level, jojoba oil is a wax. Although it can be absorbed into your skin, its waxy nature allows it to create a soothing seal on the surface.
Jojoba oil has anti-flammatory and healing properties. Topical application may help relieve dryness, flaking, itching, and related symptoms.
As such people with psoriasis and eczema will find Jojoba Oil beneficial.
Just Remember
Remember that although genes may set the stage, your choices and lifestyle also play crucial roles in the eczema story.
Written by Abigail Aderemi