Topical steroids are powerful medicines that can often provide immediate relief for itching and inflammation.
There are certainly times when they are of great benefit.
So, you may ask why look for an alternative?
Why you may want to find a topical steroid alternative.
As a practitioner of holistic dermatology, my answer is twofold.
First, topical steroids don’t get to the root of the problem.
They can often tame ared and angry flare-up, but relief is temporary.
They don’t address the underlying cause, prevention, or even a real cure.
The most effective way to heal the skin is to create changes from within.
Steroid atrophy is a condition I see often in my practice.
Blood vessels can be seen in detail, as the skin has become almost transparent.
It has been shown tobenefit seborrheic dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis1, reducing both inflammation and redness.
Used topically, it has anti-inflammatory effects, moisturizes the skin, and strengthens the skin barrier.
This ability to lock in moisture helps stop itching.
It helps alleviate pain from hemorrhoids and has powerful anti-itching properties.
Avoid camomile if you’re allergic to ragweed as the two plants are in the same family.
Drink a mug while you’re at it: a cup before bed makes for wonderful night’s sleep.
Tamanu nut oil
This rich oil is extracted from the seeds of a South Pacific evergreen tree.
It reduces inflammation, alleviates pain, has antibacterial properties andencourages the growth of new skin cells.
The benefits to the skinare wide-ranging.
It helps in the healing of chronic conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and rosacea.
Italso benefits burns, including sunburns.
To use topically, dilute the pure oil with a carrier oil such asjojoba, avocado or almond.
A small amount of sea buckthorn oil goes a long way.
I recommend using it at a strength of 10% or less.
The takeaway.
Although all these remedies are natural, that doesn’t mean they are safe and effective for everyone.
For those with sensitive skin, especially atopic eczema sufferers, verify you test any new topical product.
