Doctor V - How To Treat Eczema | Skin Of Colour | Brown Or Black Skin

Summary

Dr. Benito Ratan's video focuses on eczema treatment for skin of color, addressing common mistakes and offering a step-by-step skincare routine. He emphasizes avoiding fragrances and essential oils that can irritate the skin barrier, especially in children. Dr. Ratan discusses the importance of using 'clean' products, managing eczema flare-ups with moisturizers and steroids, and the link between eczema and hyperpigmentation in skin of color. He advises waiting until skin is fully recovered before treating pigmentation and invites viewers to join his community for further support.

Takeaways

• 👨‍⚕️ Dr. Benito Ratan is a doctor and cosmetic formulator specializing in skin of color, focusing on eczema treatment and care.
• 🔍 Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, presents with symptoms like itchiness, redness, inflammation, and skin thickening.
• 🧒 Eczema is more common in children, with an estimated 10% of children affected, and often starts in childhood.
• ❌ A common mistake in treating eczema is using products with fragrance or essential oils, which can further irritate the skin.
• 🚫 Dr. Ratan advises avoiding products with denatured alcohol, fragrance, and essential oils, as they can dry out and sensitize the skin.
• 🛡️ For eczema care, it's crucial to use 'clean' products that are free from harmful irritants to protect the compromised skin barrier.
• 🚿 Shortening showers to 5-10 minutes and using lukewarm water can help prevent skin dryness, which is exacerbated by hot water.
• 🧴 Applying body oil immediately after showering while the skin is still wet helps lock in moisture and prevent dryness.
• 💊 Antihistamines and steroids can provide temporary relief during eczema flare-ups, but their use requires careful balance to avoid side effects.
• 🔄 Eczema can lead to a cycle of inflammation and hyperpigmentation, especially for skin of color, due to the body's response to scratching and irritation.
• 🌟 Post-eczema care should focus on healing the skin and maintaining moisture before addressing pigmentation issues with products like tyrosinase inhibitors.

Q & A

What is another term for eczema?

Another term for eczema is atopic dermatitis.

What are the common symptoms of eczema?

Common symptoms of eczema include itchiness, redness, inflammation, and thickening of the skin known as lichenification.

Why is it important to be cautious with products used on eczema-prone skin?

Products used on eczema-prone skin should be cautious because the skin barrier is compromised, making it less protective and more susceptible to irritation from ingredients like fragrances and essential oils.

What are some ingredients to avoid in skincare products for those with eczema?

Ingredients to avoid in skincare products for eczema include denatured alcohol, fragrance, and essential oils, as they can further irritate and dry out the skin.

What is the significance of the 'Inky List' mentioned in the script?

The 'Inky List' refers to the ingredients list on a product, which is in descending order of quantity. It is important for consumers to understand what is in their skincare products to avoid harmful ingredients.

What is the 'Triangle of Atopic' mentioned in the video?

The 'Triangle of Atopic' refers to the common co-occurrence of atopic dermatitis (eczema), asthma, and hay fever, which often appear together.

Why does eczema in skin of color often lead to hyperpigmentation?

Eczema in skin of color often leads to hyperpigmentation because any form of inflammation can cause darkening of the skin, and constant scratching and inflammation from eczema exacerbate this issue.

What is the recommended shower duration and water temperature for someone with eczema?

For someone with eczema, it is recommended to keep showers to 5 to 10 minutes and use lukewarm water to avoid drying out the skin.

Why should individuals with eczema avoid using bar soaps?

Individuals with eczema should avoid bar soaps because they tend to be more alkaline, which can further compromise the skin barrier.

What type of moisturizer is recommended for eczema-prone skin?

For eczema-prone skin, it is recommended to use an occlusive, thicker moisturizer with petrolatum, which feels thick on the skin and helps trap water in, rather than lotions with high water content that can evaporate quickly.

How can antihistamines help with eczema?

Antihistamines can provide temporary relief from itching during eczema flare-ups by reducing the histamine response in the body.

What is the role of steroids in managing eczema?

Steroids can help reduce inflammation and itching in eczema, but they should be used with caution as long-term use can lead to skin thinning and other side effects.

Why should tyrosinase inhibitors not be used during an active eczema flare-up?

Tyrosinase inhibitors should not be used during an active eczema flare-up because they can further irritate the already compromised skin and worsen the condition.

Outlines

00:00

🧴 Skin Care for Eczema in Skin of Color

Dr. Benito Ratan introduces the video's focus on treating eczema, particularly for skin of color. He clarifies that eczema is also known as atopic dermatitis and explains the common symptoms such as itchiness, redness, inflammation, and skin thickening. Dr. Ratan emphasizes the importance of using safe products, free from denatured alcohol, fragrance, and essential oils, which are common irritants. He points out the prevalence of eczema in children and the common mistake of using baby products containing these irritants. The video aims to educate viewers on how to manage eczema and avoid exacerbating the condition with the wrong skincare products.

05:02

🚿 Eczema Management and Skincare Routine

In this segment, Dr. Ratan discusses the management of eczema, including the importance of short, lukewarm showers to prevent skin dryness, and the avoidance of bar soaps and shower gels with irritants. He advises using body oil immediately after showering to lock in moisture and recommends occlusive moisturizers over lotions. Dr. Ratan also touches on the use of antihistamines for temporary itch relief and the cautious use of steroids to manage inflammation. He warns against the long-term use of steroids due to the risk of skin thinning. The paragraph concludes with a reminder to use 'neat safe' products and to avoid tyrosinase inhibitors until the skin has fully recovered from eczema.

10:04

👩‍⚕️ Community Support and Skincare Education

Dr. Ratan invites viewers to join a private Facebook group called 'Dr. V Inky Hackers' for an inner circle of skincare enthusiasts and experts. The group aims to be a safe space for discussing skincare issues, particularly for skin of color. He expresses gratitude for the community's growth, with over 25 million views on the channel, and encourages viewers to join the group for support and education. The video ends with a call to action for viewers to download a free skincare guide, follow Dr. Ratan on social media, and engage with the content.

Keywords

💡Eczema

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition characterized by itchiness, redness, inflammation, and thickening of the skin. In the video, Dr. Benito Ratan emphasizes the importance of treating eczema, especially in children, due to its prevalence and the potential for long-term skin issues such as hyperpigmentation. The video discusses various aspects of eczema management, including the avoidance of certain products that can exacerbate symptoms.

💡Skin Barrier

The skin barrier refers to the outermost layer of the skin that protects against environmental factors and pathogens. In the context of eczema, the skin barrier is compromised, making the skin more susceptible to irritants and infections. Dr. Ratan advises on the use of products that do not further damage this compromised barrier, such as avoiding those with denatured alcohol, fragrance, and essential oils.

💡Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is a type of skin inflammation caused by direct contact with an allergen or irritant. The video highlights that fragrance is the number one cause of contact dermatitis, which is particularly problematic for individuals with eczema. Dr. Ratan stresses the importance of choosing skincare products that are free from fragrance to prevent further skin irritation.

💡Denatured Alcohol

Denatured alcohol is a type of alcohol that has been altered to make it unfit for human consumption and is often used in skincare products for its drying properties. However, as explained in the video, it can be drying and harmful to the skin, especially for those with eczema, as it can further compromise the skin barrier. Dr. Ratan advises against using products containing denatured alcohol.

💡Essential Oils

Essential oils are concentrated aromatic compounds extracted from plants, often used in skincare for their fragrance and potential therapeutic properties. However, the video explains that essential oils can sensitize the skin, making them unsuitable for those with eczema. Dr. Ratan warns against the use of essential oils in products for individuals with compromised skin.

💡Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation refers to areas of the skin where there is an excess of melanin, resulting in darker patches or spots. In the video, Dr. Ratan discusses how inflammation from eczema can lead to hyperpigmentation, especially in skin of color, where any form of inflammation can result in long-term darkening of the skin. This is a significant concern for individuals managing eczema.

💡Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is the medical term for eczema, an inflammatory skin condition. The video script uses both terms interchangeably to describe the same condition. Dr. Ratan uses this term to emphasize the medical nature of eczema and to discuss its treatment and management.

💡Lyconification

Lyconification refers to the thickening of the skin, a symptom of eczema where the skin becomes rough and leathery due to chronic inflammation and scratching. The video mentions this term to illustrate the chronic phase of eczema and the importance of managing the condition to prevent such skin changes.

💡Emollient

An emollient is a substance that softens and soothes the skin, often used in skincare to alleviate dryness and irritation. In the video, Dr. Ratan recommends the use of emollients to help trap water in the skin and maintain skin hydration, which is crucial for managing eczema and preventing flare-ups.

💡Steroid Creams

Steroid creams are topical medications containing steroids that help reduce inflammation and itching. The video discusses the use of steroid creams for eczema flare-ups, highlighting the need for a balance in their use to avoid potential side effects such as skin thinning while effectively managing symptoms.

💡Tyrosinase Inhibitors

Tyrosinase inhibitors are a class of compounds that can help reduce pigmentation by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, which is involved in melanin production. Dr. Ratan advises against using tyrosinase inhibitors during active eczema flare-ups, as they can further irritate the skin. Instead, they should be considered after the skin has fully recovered.

Highlights

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is common in children and presents with symptoms like itchiness, redness, and inflammation.

The biggest mistake in treating eczema is using products with fragrance or essential oils, which can further compromise the skin barrier.

Denatured alcohol in skincare products can dry out the skin, which is detrimental to those with eczema.

Fragrance is the leading cause of contact dermatitis and should be avoided in skincare products for eczema.

Essential oils can sensitize the skin, even normal skin, and should be avoided in products for compromised skin.

Dr. Benito Ratan emphasizes the importance of reading the INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) list to ensure product safety.

The 'Triangle of ATOP' includes eczema, asthma, and hay fever, which often co-occur.

Inflammation from eczema can lead to hyperpigmentation, especially in skin of color.

Shortening showers and using lukewarm water is recommended for managing eczema.

Bar soaps should be avoided in favor of pH-balanced cleansers to prevent further skin barrier damage.

Applying body oil immediately after showering helps trap moisture in the skin.

Lotions with high water content can evaporate quickly, leaving the skin dry; occlusive moisturizers are recommended instead.

Antihistamines can provide temporary relief from itching during eczema flare-ups.

Steroids can reduce inflammation but should be used with caution to avoid skin thinning.

Dr. Ratan advises against using tyrosinase inhibitors for pigmentation treatment while the skin is still compromised by eczema.

Maintaining a consistent moisturizing routine is key to managing eczema and preventing flare-ups.

Dr. Ratan offers a free guide for skincare for skin of color and encourages following on social media for more information.

A private Facebook group, 'Dr. V Inky Hackers', has been created for an inner circle of skincare enthusiasts to discuss and share knowledge.

Transcripts

hello i'm dr benito ratan and this

channel is dedicated to skin care for

skin of color as you know i'm a doctor

but i'm also a cosmetic formulator

specifically for skin of color so

today's video is all about eczema how do

we treat it the mistakes that get made

the step-by-step routine and also with

our children and what we can be doing in

order to help with their ex math if that

sounds good to you give me a thumbs up

let's dive right in

[Music]

so another word for eczema would be

atopic dermatitis so even if you googled

atopic dermatitis it'd be the same thing

as x-men so the symptoms would be

itchiness redness

inflammation

thickening of the skin called

lyconification but the overriding

symptom is the itchiness the itchiness

can be so bad it can keep you up at

night it is more prevalent in childhood

and it's been thought that 10 of

children get eczema so those numbers

change depending on which paper you're

looking at but it it's a significant

proportion of our kids now the biggest

mistake i see

with eczema and children are the

products that get used imagine that with

eczema the skin barrier has been

compromised

so it's not as protective already

children's skin is not as well protected

as adult skin but now on top of that

the itching and the inflammation

means that the skin is even less

protected this means you have to be even

more careful with what you put on the

skin so the things to avoid on the skin

would be things like fragrance or

essential oils unfortunately the vast

vast majority of baby friendly products

contain fragrance and essential oils in

fact some of them even market the

fragrance or market the essential oils

the problem is fragrance is the number

one cause of contact dermatitis

and essential oils sensitize normal skin

let alone compromise skin so the first

thing i want you to look at is is the

product

safe that means no denatured alcohol no

fragrance and no essential oils

denatured alcohol dries the skin which

you absolutely do not want on

compromised skin the other mistake i see

being made is it baby friendly products

saying that they are

natural

now it's fine if they're natural but

fragrance is natural essential oils are

natural so actually there are irritating

ingredients that are natural that they

get put into these baby safe products

and then market themselves as natural i

just want you to be aware of the

irritancy profile of ingredients and not

get

swayed by marketing that's what this

whole channel is about is about

education and empowerment so that you

don't fall for marketing

so at the back of every uh product so

this is our uh unzincable mineral

sunscreen for skin of color at the back

you'll see the inky list inci the inky

list is the ingredients list it's in

descending order at the back

if you've watched more than 10 of my

videos you should be able to

decode the ingredients more than 50 of

the ingredients on your skincare sitting

in your bathroom right now that would

then make your doctor the inky hacker

that's my aim is that you should know

what's in your product and not have to

read the front of the packaging to

you know which is basically someone in a

boardroom who wrote whatever they wanted

on the front of the packaging now if you

have eczma it may be that you have the

triangle of a to p so it may mean that

you also have asthma you also have hay

fever so often they all go hand in hand

so the classic pathway that you see is

initially you have the redness and the

scratching and the itchiness that's the

acute phase the chronic face happens

over a longer period of time and this is

can happen over months and years where

the constant scratching has now led to

the thickening of skin and the secondary

infection so every time you break the

skin you're allowing bacteria into the

skin because that's one of the

functions of the skin is to protect your

skin from fungus and bacteria that's in

our environment so if that's no longer

being protected you're allowing bacteria

into the skin which leads to more

inflammation so it becomes this vicious

cycle the worst thing for skin of color

is that we this all ends in

hyperpigmentation for us because any

form of inflammation

as i always say one scratch one bite or

one burner we hyper pigment so imagine

years of scratching and inflammation

leads to these patches of darkness and

it usually happens wherever the

inflammation is so

often it happens

in the inner elbows the back of the

knees

around the eye area so there's specific

areas that does tend to take place the

confusion i've heard often actually is

that people say oh i started using

steroids and that led to the

pigmentation that's incorrect

the what esteras do is that it reduces

the inflammation

once you've reduced the inflammation

what you're left with is the

pigmentation that was happening because

of the inflammation so it's not the

steroid cream that's leading to the

pigmentation the steric cream is

actually good and it slows down reduces

any inflammation

but

at the after you have the inflammation

phase after it goes red it goes brown

and so people incorrectly correlate the

two when it comes to the cause of eczema

we don't know the exact cause it could

be genetic it could be immune it could

be due to

barrier dysfunction it tends to also be

exacerbated by allergens so you might

find it worse for example in the summer

when there's pollen or if you have a pet

that

um you know goes outside to plane then

comes back in and dander can worsen

eczema so how do you manage it so first

of all we want to shorten our showers to

5 to 10 minutes maximum you want

lukewarm water when you use that

steaming hot water i know it feels

relaxing on your muscles i know you feel

like all the stress of the day is being

washed away but it is drying your skin

you are opening up those pores you have

more trans epidermal water loss your

skin is going to feel tighter and drier

afterwards it's a big mistake

please avoid bar soaps bars hips tend to

be more alkali

which it can compromise your skin

barrier further i want you to make sure

that your

shower gels are knife safe that means no

denatured alcohol no fragrance no

essential oils and i would say only use

shower gels in dirty areas that's

underarms green area don't use it

everywhere because it's unnecessary when

you come out of the shower while you're

still wet apply your body oil because it

traps water in the skin basically your

skin's going to feel very tight very

quickly which is a mistake i want you to

first trap water in the skin pat

yourself dry don't uh dry yourself too

harshly avoid lotions lotions have a

high water content water evaporates very

quickly and you're left feeling dry much

quicker so i would rather you use more

of an occlusive a thicker moisturizer

with petrolatum

that's more of an ointment based

moisturizer that actually feels thick on

the skin antihistamines are tablet that

you can take which has also been shown

to relieve the itching temporarily if

you have a flare-up you can use steroids

it's it's a fine balance because what

you're trying to do is to reduce the

inflammation so that you reduce the

itching so you reduce the chance of

secondary infection and you reduce the

chances of skin thickening but if you

use steroids for too long it can lead to

thinning of skin and then the skin feels

like paper and it cuts quickly and

people don't like the appearance of it

you know you've been wearing steroids

for a long time so it really is a fine

balance it's not something to be afraid

of but it's something to be aware of

don't forget all your skin is now

basically compromised this means you

have to use products that are neat safe

no denatured alcohol no fragrance and no

essential oils denatured alcohol dries

the skin it's volatile it's a short

chain

alcohol that evaporates quickly and as

it evaporates it takes water away with

it

fragrance is the number one cause of

contact dermatitis which i want you to

avoid and essential oils basically

sensitize the skin so look for naive

safe products in fact if you follow me

on instagram

dr anita ratan i've actually

i list all nate safe products um that

are good for skin of color as you know

none of my content has ever been

sponsored and it will never be sponsored

it is purely a reference library for our

skin of color community now a lot of you

ask me can you start using tyrosinase

inhibitors to treat the pigmentation

when you have eczema now even with the

dark circles ket or the facial

pigmentation kit the skin of color i

would say don't use this until

your skin has fully recovered because if

you start wearing tyrosinase inhibitors

when your skin is still compromised

you're only going to irritate it further

so even with our dr b kits they all

contain triple a that's retinaldehyde

retinol palmitate and retinol

those are already drying ingredients so

you wouldn't put that on the skin when

skin is already compromised so the most

important thing is to get your flare-ups

under control see what's triggering it

and moisturize you know religiously in

your bag you should always have your

emollient to be moisturizing throughout

the day almost like creating yourself a

second layer of skin only when you feel

like your skin has recovered and feels

healthy is

non-irritated and isn't flaking that you

can start thinking about tyrosinase

inhibitors to treat pigmentation post

eczema if you want me to make a specific

video on post eczema pigmentation for

skin of color can you write that down

below for me so i know if that's

something you really want or if it's you

know not something that's bothering you

just so i i'm aware don't forget to

download your free guide for skincare

skin and color as well the link is down

below don't forget to follow me on

instagram dr meteoratan skincare about

tv and also on tick tock talk to me

tarata and i've just created a private

facebook group for our inner circle of

doctor v inky hackers called dr v inky

hackers

and you have to answer some questions to

get into the into the group but the

group is

basically a safe space for you to talk

about your skin care talk about your

problems and we can all chime in and

help what i've realized is that our

community is massive we've had over 25

million views of this channel

the number of us out there actually that

are educated now on skincare for skin of

color is enormous

and if we can all come together to be

able to help each other that would just

be

incredible so please do join if this is

something that you know a place that

you want to be and

a topic you want to discuss

thank you very much for watching and i

will see you next time