Skin disorders are widely encountered, yet their specifics are relatively unknown. It therefore makes sense that confusion reigns with regards to the best means in which to treat them. In most cases, if we notice an inflamed patch of red, dry skin, we over react and consult our doctor. We must be careful however, not to blindly absorb everything doctors and dermatologists (skin specialists) say without further, independent, examination. Take the diagnosis and treatment of dermatitis for example.

Dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a common skin condition that can be caused by an allergic reaction or by irritating chemicals. As a result of the reaction or irritation, the skin often becomes red, swollen or blistered, and intensely itchy. However, it is important to note that dermatitis is used as a catch-all term for inflammation of the skin; therefore there are many specific derivatives and varied forms of treatment for each. So what do the experts say?

EXPERT'S OPINION: CONTACT DERMATITIS

The inflammation caused by contact dermatitis is largely a result of either contact with an irritating chemical, or an allergic reaction. Without stating the obvious, the first thing to do is cease contact or exposure to the 'irritant' or 'allergic'. This is great for future avoidance; however, it does nothing to reduce the current inflammation which can stay present for up to 6 weeks.

One of the common recommendations made by doctors and dermatologists is to apply moisturizer; a technique extremely effective in rehydrating the skin and therefore reducing itchiness. The problem is that the most medical experts recommend the use of Sorbolene creams which themselves commonly elicit allergic reactions. It is for this reason that the recommendation of 100% natural skin balms is a much safer option, due to the low percentage of unwanted reactions and the exceptional hydration properties they posses.

EXPERT'S OPINION: ATOPIC DERMATITIS

Although atopic dermatitis is most prevalent in newborns and toddlers, there are substantial numbers of mature age sufferers. 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.

In accordance with the ever-present characteristics of atopic dermatitis, medical experts often jump the gun and prescribe a varied array of corticosteroid creams and ointments to counter irritation. However there is a large degree of danger surrounding the use of such creams. Like all forms of steroids, their use goes hand-in-hand with a lengthy list of potential side effects. These include and are not limited to:

- High Blood Pressure - Poor Immune Defense - Pancreatitis - Abdominal Pain - Sleeplessness - Skin thinning (atrophy) and stretch marks (striae) - Easy bruising and tearing of the skin - Perioral dermatitis (rash around the mouth) - Enlarged blood vessels (telangiectasia) - Susceptibility to skin infections - Disguising infection e.g. tinea incognito - Allergy to the steroid cream

Natural skin balms are much more effective

With the long list of side effects associated with corticosteroid creams and ointments, most of which far more damaging the initial inflammation they are designed to treat, it is not hard to see why this treatment plan should be clearly avoided. In order to effortlessly bring moisture back to the skin in the most harmonious means available to the body, a natural solution is the only logical answer.