Skin eczema

Skin eczema: recognition, treatment and care

Skin eczema is a widespread skin condition that can affect people of all ages. It manifests itself as dry, itchy and inflamed patches of skin and can have a significant impact on quality of life. In this blog post, we will define eczema, discuss the role of occlusive cosmetic products in the treatment of this condition and highlight the beneficial active ingredients in these products.

What is skin eczema?

Skin eczema, also known as dermatitis, is an inflammatory skin condition characterized by redness, swelling, itching and sometimes blistering. The exact causes can be varied and include genetic factors, allergies, irritants and environmental factors. There are different types of eczema, including atopic eczema, contact eczema and seborrhoeic eczema, each with their own triggers and symptoms.

Treatment options with occlusive cosmetics

Occlusive cosmetics play a decisive role in the treatment of skin eczema. They form a protective barrier on the skin that prevents the penetration of irritants and traps moisture in the skin. This is particularly important as dry skin is one of the main complaints of eczema.

What is occlusivity?

Occlusivity refers to the ability of a cosmetic product to form a physical barrier on the skin that minimizes water loss and retains moisture. Occlusive ingredients, such as petrolatum, mineral oils (better: medicinal white oils), silicones, waxes and oils, are known to be particularly effective at binding water in the skin and supporting the skin’s natural barrier function. Although the mechanism of action of occlusivity is very important for diseased skin, silicone oils and mineral oils are often heavily criticized in this respect. We would like to shed some sober light on this below:

Silicones in skin care

Silicones are popular in the cosmetics industry because of their smooth texture and their ability to form a protective barrier on the skin. They help to soften the skin and retain moisture. This can be particularly beneficial in products for the treatment of atopic dermatitis. Silicones are also hypoallergenic, making them a good choice for sensitive skin. However, there are concerns about their impact on the environment, as silicones are difficult to break down and can have potentially harmful effects on aquatic ecosystems.

Mineral oil in skincare products

Mineral oil is often used for its excellent occlusive properties, which help to retain water in the skin, preventing dryness and cracking. It is particularly effective in products for very dry or eczema-prone skin. However, there are concerns about the purity of mineral oil and the possibility that contaminated or not fully refined forms can cause skin irritation or clog pores. There is also debate about the environmental impact of mineral oil, as it is a petrochemical substance and can produce environmentally harmful emissions during extraction and processing.

Conclusion on silicone and mineral oil

The decision as to whether to use products containing silicone or mineral oil depends on individual skin needs and environmental aspects. It is important that consumers weigh up the pros and cons of these ingredients and choose products that are effective and safe for their specific skin conditions.

When you ask us to develop new products, we need to discuss the yes/no of silicones and mineral oils. In the best case scenario, we can also provide your customers with scientifically sound information.

Beneficial active ingredients in cosmetic products for the treatment of skin eczema

Choosing the right active ingredients in cosmetic products can be crucial to relieving the symptoms of skin eczema and promoting skin health. Here are some of the most effective ingredients:

Ceramides: These lipid molecules are important for maintaining the skin barrier, helping to keep the skin supple and prevent moisture loss.

Glycerin: A humectant that absorbs water from the environment and binds it in the skin.

Hyaluronic acid: Known for its ability to bind large amounts of water, hyaluronic acid helps to deeply hydrate the skin and retain moisture over a longer period of time.

Niacinamide (vitamin B3): This active ingredient has an anti-inflammatory effect and can help to strengthen the skin barrier and reduce redness and irritation.

Aloe vera: Aloe vera is known for its soothing and healing properties. These make it an ideal ingredient for treating inflamed and irritated skin.

Colloidal oatmeal: It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that soothe itching and calm the skin.

Here you will find other active ingredients that could be used in a new product line for the treatment of skin eczema:

Summary

The treatment of skin eczema often requires a holistic approach that includes both medical and cosmetic products. Occlusive cosmetics provide important initial protection by protecting the skin from further damage and supporting its natural moisture barrier. By selecting products with the active ingredients mentioned above, the symptoms of skin eczema can be effectively alleviated and skin health improved. Proper care and the use of appropriate products can make a big difference in dealing with this difficult skin condition.

Cosmacon can develop and manufacture new, high-quality products for you to treat skin eczema. Just get in touch with us.

Literature:

Oral and Topical Probiotics and Postbiotics in Skincare and Dermatological Therapy: A Concise Review.

De Almeida CV, Antiga E, Lulli M.Microorganisms. 2023 May 27;11(6):1420

A 1% colloidal oatmeal OTC cream is clinically effective for the management of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis in Black or African American children.

Lisante TA, Kizoulis M, Nuñez C, Hartman CL.J Dermatolog Treat. 2023 Dec;34(1):2241587

Prevalence of major food allergens in skincare products for atopic dermatitis.

Ryczaj K, Chojnowska-Wójtowicz M, Dumycz K, Feleszko W, Kulus M.Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2023 Dec;40(6):762-765.