One of the most common skin conditions is dermatitis, which is also known as eczema. It is usually caused by exposure to an allergic reaction or irritating chemicals. As a result of the reaction or irritation, the skin often becomes red, swollen or blistered, and intensely itchy. Dermatitis is an umbrella term used to associate various skin inflammations. Some of the more common forms are as follows:

CONTACT DERMATITIS

The most frequent cause of contact dermatitis is reactionary contact with irritating chemicals such as detergents, solvents, acids, and skin cleansers, or it may be triggered by an allergic reaction to gels, lotions, antiseptics in hand creams and bleach. Usually such outbreaks remain for as long as the skin is exposed to the irritant or allergic, but the inflammation may stay for up to 6 weeks. To assist in the reduction of inflammation moisturizers can be used to soften and add moisture to the skin, improving dryness and scaling. Corticosteroid creams and ointments can also be used to reduce the inflammation; however they often cause severe side effects that far outweigh the initial irritation.

ATOPIC DERMATITIS

Atopic dermatitis is another common form. Although common in babies and young children, it can persist through adulthood. Atopic dermatitis causes a pinkish-red, scaly rash that can get lumpy, weepy and crusty. In adult cases this is found mostly in the elbows, behind the knees, and/or on wrists and hands. It is a condition that can't be cured, only managed. Therefore it is best to avoid the use of soaps, while applying moisturizers to alleviate the dry itchy skin. Again, in some cases corticosteroid creams and ointments many be suggested; however there are risks associated with their use.

NUMMULAR DERMATITIS

Nummular dermatitis, also known as discoid eczema, usually occurs in middle-aged people. In most cases this causes small round patches with tiny blisters, scabs, and scales to appear in any part of the body. These patches tend to by dry and itchy and can last from weeks to months. Treatment of such cases is not easy, however skin moisturizers are often the best and safest form of reducing itchy irritation and dryness.

HOW NATURAL SKIN BALMS CAN BE OF USE

Due to the dangers associated with the use of corticosteroid creams, natural skin balms are seen to be a much safer alternative to reducing the dry inflammation of the skin caused by dermatitis. These natural products assist greatly in replenishing and moisturizing the skin and work much more harmoniously with the body than corticosteroid creams and ointments.