Using natural products could make your eczema, dermatitis or psoriasis worse, according to new study

They can exacerbate sensitive or allergy-prone skin and lead to symptoms worsening

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13:31, 19 MAR 2019
Updated14:40, 21 MAY 2020

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It is been revealed that more than 1 in 5 or almost 750,000 adults in Ireland believe they have suffered an allergic skin reaction within the past 12 months.

More than 51% of all adults believe they suffer from above average or hyper-sensitive skin.

Six in 10 claim to experience red itchy skin, with just over half citing redness/inflamed skin and 51% claiming to have experienced a rash. Many Irish people shun treatments or opt for natural remedies to help clear their eczema, dermatitis or psoriasis, among other issues.

Now, new research from sensitive skincare brand La Roche-Posay to mark Skin Health Month 2019 has revealed that the use of naturally derived products as remedies to allergic skin, could, in some cases exacerbate sensitive or allergy-prone skin and lead to symptoms worsening.

Contrary to advice from a leading dermatologist, the above study also found that more than 3 in 5 adults perceive ‘naturally derived treatments’ as being most effective at caring for allergy-prone skin.

Furthermore, 10% believed that refraining from using any products is the most appropriate skincare strategy for allergy-prone skin.

Consultant Dermatologist, Dr. Niki Ralph, La Roche-Posay has advised that: “We have seen an increase in the number of naturally derived skincare products coming to market but when it comes to protecting against allergies and maintaining the skin’s barrier function, we would advise people to be mindful of the ingredients that could be causing allergy symptoms to worse.”

Supporting the skin’s protective barrier function or ‘microbiome’ which is made from good and bad bacteria, is important not only for effective management of all allergies, but also for preventing their development.

La Roche Posay says that disruptions to the microbiome can lead to the skin’s bacterial culture breaking-down and the skin becoming more susceptible to allergens. Central to ensuring the skin’s microbiome is properly maintained is daily use of a replenishing moisturiser daily.

Dr. Niki Ralph added: “The level of misconceptions around appropriate solutions for allergy-prone skin is concerning. The use of unsuitable products on the skin is one of the most common causes of skin sensitivities.

"There are many skincare myths that often go unchallenged and can lead to unnecessary distress and discomfort.

"I welcome research such as this as it helps to drive the necessary awareness to ensure those with sensitive skin types can manage their skincare routines effectively.”

Skin solutions

Now in its third year, the ‘Skin Health Month’ initiative aims to empower those living with sensitive skin through awareness and encouraging them to seek advice. The campaign will take place in pharmacies nationwide from March 1 to 31.