Dermatitis: Types, Causes, And Natural Remedies For Its Treatment

Did you know that there are different types of dermatitis? It is an inflammatory process in the skin that can cause blisters, redness, itching.

In the following article you will know all of them, as well as the best natural remedies for their treatment and prevention.

Types of dermatitis

Although some of the symptoms are similar, there are five different types of dermatitis  that can affect us at some point in our lives:

contact dermatitis

It is not infectious and appears when coming into contact with an irritating substance. It tends to affect adults not only in the irritated area but also in the surroundings.

It is mainly produced in the hands, feet and groin. The most frequent symptoms are itching, burning and redness.

atopic dermatitis

It can be caused by both internal and external factors. Appears on the back of the knees and shoulders or on the face.

It is common in children (in this case it is known as infantile eczema). Causes itching and inflammation.

Seborrheic dermatitis

It can be said that it is the most frequent type of dermatitis and appears on the scalp and behind the ears. Also in other areas with hair such as the eyebrows, face or armpits. The scales are white or yellow and oily.

Dandruff or seborrhea is one of its typical manifestations.

diaper dermatitis

It affects the lower extremities, especially in the groin and thighs, as well as the genitals and abdomen. That is, in all areas that have contact with the diaper.

In this place, moisture and heat are continuously present and bacteria “make the party” with liquid or solid waste.

nummular dermatitis

Causes circular spots that are very itchy. It affects the legs, hands, arms and buttocks. Causes purulent blisters, scales and scabs.

It tends to appear in winter and in people over 55 years old with a tendency to dry skin.

Symptoms

The main symptoms common to all types of dermatitis are:

• Itch
• crusts
• Signs that appear and disappear
• skin thickening
• bubbles
• Dandruff
• Redness
• Irritation
• dryness

Causes

The traditional causes of dermatitis are:

• Allergies
• Substances that we touch and ingest that can produce a reaction
• plants like rue
• Cleaning items such as soaps or disinfectants
• Metals like gold or silver
• insect bites
• Certain materials (wool)

Other causes of dermatitis:

Incorrect food

Following a diet based on a large amount of alcoholic beverages, animal fats, pasta, chocolate, fast foods, can cause dermatitis in certain people.

The temperature

Cold or heat can aggravate the condition. For example, we get overheated in winter with dry skin, or in summer by wearing certain clothes.

Genetics

Genetic inheritance may be responsible for dermatitis in some people. This is the case, for example, with seborrhea.

Illnesses

Diabetes is related to the appearance of atopic or nummular dermatitis.

Stress

Nerves, anxiety, pressure and problems cause the skin to peel, dandruff, redness and blisters.

Recommendations for avoiding dermatitis

In addition to knowing the type of dermatitis you are suffering from, the following advice can be very helpful in dealing with the condition:

• Use mild soap. Perfumes that are added to toiletries and cosmetics may be causing the symptoms.
• Always keep your nails short and clean. And it’s not good to scratch yourself, as your fingers and nails can be dirty when you do, which increases the possibility of infection.
• Avoid sudden changes in temperature. Also very strong exercises that make you sweat excessively.

• Moisturize your skin. Especially in winter, when we tend to pay less attention to aesthetics and health.
• Wear cotton clothing. Before putting it on for the first time, wash it by hand with a mild soap. Eliminate all fluff or rough surfaces from clothing.
• Do not use feather pillows. Also valid for stuffed animals, wool blankets, etc.
• Do not expose yourself to irritating products. For example, dust, industrial chemicals, aerosols, paints, varnishes, smoke, solvents. Do not use gloves either, as they aggravate eczema between the fingers.
• Avoid stress and tension. You will see how, little by little, the situation on your skin will begin to normalize.
• Don’t scratch yourself. It may seem impossible, but it will only make the situation worse. Some people choose to sleep with gloves on so they don’t scratch themselves while they sleep.

Natural Remedies for Dermatitis

Plants are always our allies for any problem we have, both internally and externally. Choose one of these species for a good topical treatment of dermatitis:

mallow

It has a component called mucilage which helps to  smooth the skin and treat wounds, blisters and pimples. Make an infusion to enjoy its benefits.

Ingredients

• 40 g of dry leaves
• 1 liter of water

Method of preparation

1. First, boil both ingredients.
2. Let it warm up.
3. Then filter and soak a cotton.
4. Apply to affected areas after showering and do not rinse off.

aloe vera

Of course aloe vera would be on a list of natural skin remedies. It has anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, bactericidal and regenerating properties.

Cut a sheet, open it in half and smear the gel on the area affected by dermatitis.

Calendula

A really wonderful wild plant. It has antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties. Prepare it in the form of an infusion.

Ingredients

• A spoon of marigold flowers
• One cup of boiling water (250 ml)

Method of preparation

1. Add the flowers to the boiling water.
2. let it rest for a few minutes
3. strain the infusion
4. When at room temperature, apply with a cotton.