It is well known that environmental chemicals and pollutants can cause and exacerbate eczema. They damage the protective layer of the skin and are absorbed through the skin into the rest of the body. In 1997, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set the standard of allowable toxic emissions at 80 parts per billion (ppb). Now, a decade later, with hundreds of U.S. counties still not in compliance, the EPA has raised the bar – the new standard is now 75 ppb and compliance is set for 2020. In the meantime, eczema sufferers need to know how to protect themselves.
Although we can’t do much about the air we breathe – other than continuing to lobby for cleaner, healthier air – there are steps eczema sufferers, and others affected by environmental chemicals, can take to reduce the damage.
Get rid of chemicals in the home. This includes household cleaning products, soaps, shampoos, air fresheners and, wherever possible, furniture, flooring, clothing and other household items made with synthetic fibers. Slow down on the use of drugs and opt for natural remedies and a healthy lifestyle, including exercise to help the circulation of nutrients to the cells. Eat organic foods – fresh fruits and vegetables grown without pesticides, herbicides and other chemicals, meat raised naturally without hormones and antibiotics, and wild caught fish from unpolluted waters. Use a shielding lotion. A good shielding lotion bonds with the outer layer of the skin to form a new protective layer that locks in natural moisture and keeps out chemicals. Thousands of doctors now recommend shielding lotion for eczema treatment – some have found it so effective no other treatment is needed.
Unfortunately, as many nations industrialized they did not set strict enough guidelines to make sure citizens were protected. As a result, the incidence of skin disease has reached epidemic proportions.
Getting rid of chemicals in our home environment has helped many overcome their skin problems and live a generally healthier life. Take control of your personal environment and you will see the difference – but don’t forget the shielding lotion: it protects you from the chemicals you can’t control and is a vital component of any eczema treatment protocol.
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