5 natural keys to cure eczema without corticosteroids

The corticosteroid creams that are prescribed in the treatment of eczema or dermatitis not only do not cure them, but could aggravate the problem or even cause it in the medium and long term.

In fact, one in eight people affected could stop suffering from eczema if they stopped using the cream, according to a study published in the journal Drug, health and patient safety by a team of Japanese researchers.

These would be people affected by what is known as “topical steroid withdrawal syndrome”. The theory is that, over time, skin becomes “addicted” to topical corticosteroids. The moment you stop using the corticosteroid cream used to treat eczema, a reaction is triggered that worsens the problem, which leads to using it again.

Side effects of corticosteroids on atopic skin

To understand why this occurs, one must first understand How do corticosteroid creams used against eczema work?.

Topical corticosteroids prevent skin cells from releasing inflammatory substances that are often produced by an allergic reaction or irritation. It is intended that way avoid redness and inflammation and, in the short term, they are effective and can improve eczema or dermatitis. But for this they compress the blood capillaries that irrigate the skin.

It is believed that the continued use of corticosteroid creams for years it can clog those capillaries and cause a redness that is confused with eczema, but is actually a vascular problem.

A side effect known as erythroderma or red man syndrome which is often confused with a flare-up of dermatitis due to discontinuation of medication.

The study authors point out that the similarity of skin lesions to those of dermatitis or the initial eczema makes this confusion common among dermatologists, among whom there is resistance to accept and diagnose this syndrome. In fact, many doubt that such a syndrome exists.

Something that can help differentiate them is that, in general, atopic dermatitis mainly affects the neck, knees, and elbows, while addiction to topical corticosteroids spreads to other areas of the body (except the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet).

Should we stop corticosteroids?

stop corticosteroids In the long run, it could restore the skin to its normal appearance in many cases, or in the worst of them, to that of skin with atopic dermatitis, but without the aggravation generated by creams.

However, the fact that withdrawal of the creams initially causes an exacerbation of symptoms discourages many from trying it. In fact that “rebound effect” can last from several days to several months: an initial phase of exudation is followed by another of itching, dryness and flaking that can be frustrating, especially when the only treatment offered is to resume the use of corticosteroid creams.

Treat eczema naturally

Contrary to the use of corticosteroids, natural medicine recommends less aggressive methods of treating eczema. Natural treatment especially includes:

1. Changes in diet

Avoid dairy products and increase portions of anti-inflammatory foods: flax, turmeric, ginger, mushrooms…

2. Stress reduction

Dermatitis flare-ups are associated with stress. Therefore it is recommended to learn relaxation and meditation techniques and practice them daily.

3. Oats and chamomile

If corticosteroids have been used, when stopping the medication It is advisable to fast for 3 to 7 days and apply oatmeal cooking compresses and fresh chamomile to the affected area, to soothe and combat inflammation.

4. Natural creams

The aloe vera or calendula based creams hydrate and soften the skin. Choose a product with a natural or organic certification.

5. Supplements that help

Supplementation with gamma-linolenic acid It is effective in many cases. Homeopathy and Chinese medicine can also help.