If you're dealing with skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, or perioral dermatitis, you know the struggle is real. It can feel like a never-ending search for effective treatments, hopping from one dermatologist to the next, only to be left frustrated and searching for answers.

While we're not doctors, our decades-long journey exploring holistic skin care and lifestyle approaches has led us to some game-changing insights. Along the way, we've discovered a treasure trove of methods that can help soothe your skin, calm the relentless inflammation, and bring relief to those pesky flare-ups!

Are Eczema, Psoriasis, Rosacea, and Perioral Dermatitis Related?

These conditions have different underlying causes and characteristics. However, they can sometimes be confused due to similar symptoms or appearance, such as redness and inflammation.

For instance, eczema is a chronic condition characterized by inflammation of the skin, resulting in dry, itchy, and red patches. It's often linked to allergies, a compromised skin barrier, or a weakened immune system.

Similarly, psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition marked by the rapid growth of skin cells, leading to thick, silvery scales and red patches. While not directly related to eczema, they can sometimes coexist!

In contrast, rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects the face, causing redness, visible blood vessels, bumps, and sometimes thickened skin. Its exact cause is still unknown.

Finally, perioral dermatitis is a facial rash often occurring around the mouth, nose, and eyes. Its exact cause remains unclear, although, based on Jenette's years of study and experience, it usually stems from environmental conditions, allergies, stress, and diet.

Skin Triggers and Solutions

Flare-ups can be caused by various sources triggering inflammation: sun exposure, spicy foods, alcohol, excessive sugar, greasy food, nicotine, caffeine, stress, emotional imbalance, lack of sleep, and even weather changes. Additionally, many skincare products, lotions, and fragrances can exacerbate the situation.

To truly address this, soothing and reducing inflammation in the body is key. This requires a personalized, multi-pronged approach, which may include:

1. Eating an Anti-inflammatory Diet
   Focus on foods with anti-inflammatory properties, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fatty fish (like salmon), nuts, seeds, and healthy fats (olive oil, avocado). Minimize processed foods, refined carbohydrates, and sugary beverages and snacks.
   
   
2. Manage Your Stress
   Practicing stress-reduction techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or spending time in nature can be beneficial.
   
   
3. Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking
   Limit alcohol intake and quit smoking to reduce inflammation and improve overall health.
   
   
4. Consider Supplements
   Certain supplements like omega-3 fatty acids, turmeric, ginger, and green tea extract have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce inflammation. Adaptogens can also reduce stress and help assist the body in overall health and balance. We love reishi and lion’s mane.
   
   
5. Get LED Light Therapy
   LED (Light-emitting diode) therapy has gained popularity as a non-invasive treatment. It involves using specific wavelengths of light to target different layers of the skin, promoting healing and regeneration.
   
   Experience the healing power of our remarkable light therapy bed! Found at our flagship spa, Being in LA
   
   While our LED light capsule may be exclusive to LA, you can still benefit from this innovative treatment by ensuring you invest in a quality product. When researching LED light therapy devices, prioritize those made in the U.S. with a warranty and featuring a combination of infrared, high-low red, and blue light.
   
   

What About Medications?

Prescription medications may be necessary to manage inflammation and certain skin conditions. These can include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, or immunosuppressants. While we’re thankful for these meds during a brutal flare-up, they’re far from ideal as a long-term solution.

The effects of corticosteroids can be extensive, often causing unwanted side effects such as weight gain, skin thinning, stretch marks, acne, and increased susceptibility to bruising. It's heartbreaking to see individuals who have battled eczema since childhood suffer the consequences of prolonged cortisone cream use.

Many of our clients bear the visible marks of their struggle — skin that has become paper-thin and wrinkled from years of corticosteroid use. This serves as a stark reminder of the importance of exploring alternative treatments and embracing holistic skincare approaches that nourish and heal the skin, without unwanted repercussions.

Unscented, Fragrance-Free and Sensitive-Skin, Skin Care

While widely recommended by physicians, popular drugstore brands like CeraVe, Cetaphil, and Aquaphor may not always be the best choice for everyone. It's essential to question whether these products are safe and suitable for your skin. 

Many of these ubiquitous drugstore brands contain ingredients like petroleum jelly, phthalates, and paraffin, which can raise concerns about their safety and potential long-term effects. Some of these ingredients have carcinogenic properties and other adverse health concerns.

When it comes to holistic skin care, transparency and understanding ingredient labels are crucial. Opting for products free from harmful additives and potentially toxic substances can help safeguard your health and overall well-being. 

It's worth exploring alternative brands that prioritize natural, organic, and clean ingredients to ensure your skincare routine aligns with your values and promotes optimal skin health.

Our Top Skincare Product Recommendations:

1. Epicuren Apricot Cream Cleanser:
   Gentle and softening, ideal for dry skin.
   
   
2. Jane Iredale BeautyPrep Face Cleanser: 
   Antioxidant-rich micellar cleansing water.
   
   
3. Epicuren Soothe Dermal Repair Mist: 
   Ultra-light toner for sensitive skin.
   
   
4. Jenette’s Be Divine – Age Defying Toner: 
   Anti-inflammatory and rich in probiotics and antioxidants.
   
   
5. Jenette's Be Radiant - Snow Mushroom Toner: 
   Anti-inflammatory,  antioxidant-rich and ultra-hydrating.
   
   
6. Jenette’s Serenity – Brightening Moisturizer: 
   Anti-inflammatory moisturizer safe for all skin types.
   
   
7. Jenette's Be Clean Detoxifying Elixir:
   Anti-inflammatory serum oil that's great for redness, bumps and acne.
   
   
8. Epicuren Acidophilus Probiotic Skin Cream: 
   Gentle hydration for a healthy microbiome.
   
   
9. Jane Iredale Mineral Powders: 
   Healing coverage and care without harsh ingredients.
   
   

Your Takeaway

In the pursuit of healthier skin, our journey through holistic skin care has provided invaluable insights into managing conditions like eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and perioral dermatitis. From anti-inflammatory diets to stress management techniques, we've seen the transformative power of nurturing the body and skin from within. 

While prescription medications offer temporary relief, we advocate for alternative treatments like LED light therapy and clean skincare products. By prioritizing natural ingredients and informed choices, you can transform your skin and reclaim your confidence!!