I’m not sure why, but there are more people than ever, telling me that they suffer from some level of Eczema. This is a serious skin condition and it’s not “trendy”(e.g like eating “gluten free”), but it’s also not something most people used to admit freely. Maybe my readers are just more aware of what it making them itch, these days. It’s hard to ignore ezcema. Even a mild case ranges from being itchy and merely annoying, to feeling almost painful.
For those who don’t know what Eczema is, it’s an inflammation of the “epidermis” (outer layer) of the skin ( not contagious).the word comes from the Greek meaning “”to boil over.” Mild symptoms include dryness and sometimes, rashes, but these symptoms can be accompanied by crusting, flaking, blistering, cracking, oozing, or bleeding. Worse, eczema is usually a chronic condition that can be treated, but in many cases, it will continue to flare up from time to time. Eczema is commonly found in families with a history of other allergies or asthma, but you can also get a flare up when your skin comes into contact with rough or coarse materials, feeling too hot or too cold, exposure to certain household products like soap or detergent, or coming into contact with animal dander. Upper respiratory infections or colds may also be triggers. If you’re stressed out, that may be just the time that eczema flares up.
Luckily there are plenty of things that help deal with the itch of eczema. One new kit that is launching this month, by Aveeno Active Naturals, is the Eczema Therapy Care Kit. This kit includes a soakand a moisturizer that help you deal with Eczema flare ups, and the best news is that the kit has a suggested retail price of just $13.99-$15.99.
The set is nicely boxed with 6 bath packets for half a dozen soothing soaks, and a 15 oz moisturizing cream that is steroid and fragrance free. While I am not sure how many soaks and how long you’d have to use the moisturizer to relieve eczema flare-ups, I’m guessing 6 days of soaks plus additional use of the cream, would do it. I know that colloidal oatmeal is a skin protectant that is even used for itchy symptoms of chicken pox, and I’m guessing that you’d get almost immediate relief. The moisturizer can be applied as you need it, and should help with maintenance. Obviously, if the kit doesn’t make you feel better soon, you’d be best off seeing your doctor, but for mild symptoms, these two products seem like they’d really do the trick.
Two other exciting launches “hot off the press” from Aveeno are a bit more glamorous, but no less high performance: AVEENO ® Pure Renewal Dry Shampoo (a first for Aveeno) and Aveeno Ultra-Calming® Makeup Removing Wipes.
I’m particularly excited about the Aveeno Active Naturals Pure Renewal Dry Shampoo .It actually launched in July, but I just got my sample recently. I really love the sulfate-free Pure Renewal shampoo and conditioner products, and this sulfate-free, good for all hair types dry shampoo is equally lovely. It smells light and fresh, and doesn’t dump a load of chalky residue into your roots. Some of the older dry shampoos were so powdery that you just looked like you’d substituted limp greasy locks for dandruff. not a pleasing look! The dry shampoo comes in a generously sized 4.8 oz. spray bottle, for $7.49-$7.99. Aveeno says it is the first sulfate-free dry shampoo. If you have had a straightening or other type of treatment, you absolutely must use sulfate free products. The dry shampoo is not just a freshener, it is also good for adding a bit of volume and helping to tame frizz. It won’t make your hair look squeaky clean, but it will get rid of cigar and cigarette smoke and other pollutants, and it will remove enough excess oil to give your hair another day without having to wash it. If you travel, it is indespensible, because it really gets rid of “airplane” smell and soil (but stash it in your checked baggage because it is over the TSA limit–maybe Aveeno will consider making a 2 oz. size for travel). If you have 1-2 minutes to spray this (sparingly) into your roots, wait a few minutes, and brush it out, you’ve got fresher, better looking (and better smelling) hair!
Another new favorite that launched in the July, is a boon for those who have sensitive skin, but want the convenience of cleansing wipes. The newest are the Aveeno Ultra-Calming Makeup Removing Wipes ($6.49-$6.99/25 wipes). The nicely sized, soft, fresh smelling wipes do what all wipes are supposed to do: cleanse and remove dirt, and makeup. But these are gentle, gentle, gentle! The oil-free formula is no lightweight, however. It removed even long lasting makeup without a struggle, and it has Aveeno’s signature “active naturals” and Calming Feverfew ( an ingredient related to chamomile), tailor-made for for sensitive skin. These wipes are also noncomedogenic, and dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested. Whether your skin is sensitive or not, these are great wipes at a great price. Take a packette with you on the road when you want to freshen up. The soft package is made for travel (or for your bathroom or desk drawer), with a pretty peach flip top and a soft yellow bag. Although a bottle of any of the excellent Aveeno Facial Cleansers will last longer, wipes are so convenient! Even the perennially lazy who come home late and don’t feel like dousing their face with water, will no longer have any excuse to go to bed with a dirty face.
I am proud to say I’m an Aveeno Ambassador. All of the Aveeno products are easily available at mass market retailers and drug stores. or visit www.aveeno.com for more information
