Let’s talk about the ongoing debate in skincare: prescription treatments versus natural remedies for stubborn conditions such as rosacea and eczema. These are chronic skin conditions, often requiring long-term management, usually involving prescribed medications. However, there has been a rise in concern over potential side effects and withdrawal symptoms, causing more individuals to seek alternative routes to manage their condition (National Library of Medicine).
Common over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription treatments for rosacea include Brimonidine, Azelaic acid, and Metronidazole; each one works to reduce redness and inflammation. For eczema, common treatments include topical calcineurin inhibitors (like tacrolimus and pimecrolimus), antihistamines, and hydrocortisone, with each one aiming to alleviate itching and inflammation. These are only a few of the numerous other medications out there for rosacea and eczema.
Most of these medications, prescription or OTC, require a period of time for the skin to adjust. Therefore, a lot of the common side effects include itchiness, redness, dryness, and other irritations. Many prescription formulas contain harsh chemicals that can further irritate the skin. Certain chemicals like azelaic acid may even cause a burning sensation when in contact. Some treatments, such as Metronidazole, only have a temporary effect. If you stop the treatment, symptoms could return.
Another issue people may have with steroid-based prescription medications is topical steroid withdrawal (TSW), which is a real struggle, especially for those battling with eczema. This term refers to a plethora of symptoms that pop up after a person stops using topical corticosteroids. It is still unclear if there is a certain amount of steroid use that leads to TSW, but it most frequently happens when there has been a prolonged and daily use of medium to high potency of steroids. Read stories and see images of those who struggled with this syndrome here! Prolonged use of steroids can also lead to skin atrophy, which can further trigger allergic reactions due to the thinning of the skin.
Due to these reactions, researchers recommend exercising caution with steroids, starting treatment with non-steroidal therapies before turning to steroids, or even using non-steroidal products alongside prescription medications.
At LEMYKA, we recognize the importance of addressing these issues. Our goal with all of our products is to help ease symptoms and prevent flare-ups for different skin conditions, all while healing and repairing the skin barrier! If you are on a medical prescription, our products are excellent for applying between doses. Many of our customers do this, and have expressed that it allowed them to space out their treatments due to experiencing fewer and less severe flare-ups.
Our products are also great to use solo! They don’t include any steroids, parabens, dyes, or any other harsh chemicals, so you wouldn’t experience any withdrawal symptoms if you stop using them. We carefully choose high-quality, natural and organic ingredients to create effective skincare products that can do wonders for your skin concerns!
For Eczema, we suggest trying our Eczema UV Defense Care Bundle, a great start for any first time users. It includes our Gentle Hair & Body Wash, Natural Gentle Body Lotion, and ZnO Baby Mineral Sunscreen - perfect for both you and your little one! Using these products every morning and evening (sunscreen only in the morning) will help decrease eczema symptoms significantly and prevent future flare-ups. Using all of these products, you can achieve thorough, gentle cleansing from any irritants that exacerbate the skin, routine hydration to replenish the skin and lock in moisture, and safe, fragrance-free sun protection. We also have a Daily Face Care Bundle if you are targeting eczema on the face, and a Body Care Bundle for focusing on treating eczema on the body.
For Rosacea, we recommend our Healing Lotion, which was formulated to calm down rosacea redness, itching, and inflammation. It also provides deep hydration to help repair the skin barrier, leaving your skin less vulnerable to irritants and potential flare-ups. We include nature’s best ingredients, including aloe vera, calendula, chamomile, and plant oils. All of these ingredients are very gentle and calming for the skin. Unless you have an allergy to any of them, you should not have any side effects from using our products. This lotion pairs great with our Ultra Gentle Face Cleanser, perfect for rosacea-prone skin. This creamy, foamy cleanser is made up of plant derived, gentle ingredients to ensure your skin gets thoroughly cleaned while not stripping the skin. It is so gentle, you could use it on babies worry-free. Lastly, include our ZnO Baby Mineral Sunscreen in your routine as well to ensure your skin is properly nourished and protected.
Navigating the struggle of rosacea and eczema isn't just about dealing with discomfort – it's about reclaiming your confidence and feeling your best self. The visible symptoms can really take a toll, making you feel self-conscious in social situations and even affecting your day-to-day interactions. Here at LEMYKA, we understand the emotional rollercoaster these conditions can be, and we're here to walk alongside you every step of the way. Our mission is simple: to offer safe and clean skin care products that you will be comfortable using on you and your little ones, helping you feel empowered, comfortable, and confident in your own skin!
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