Research: Kelp beds could help relieve eczema
Do you suffer from a skin condition? The answer to your problems might come from the Western Cape’s kelp beds.
Eczema is one of the most prevalent skin conditions. It causes excessive dryness and itching.
According to nationaleczema.org, one in 10 individuals will develop eczema during their lifetime, with prevalence peaking in early childhood. The few studies that have been done in South Africa among children of different age groups showed one-year prevalence rates of 1 - 13.3%, states The South African Medical Journal.
How kelp beds can help treat eczema
The pristine kelp beds which recently featured in the Oscar-winning film 'My Octopus Teacher’ have been proven to have amazing benefits. They are thought to treat a variety of skin problems.
They are not only home to an amazing array of marine life, but contain compounds that can help address a host of debilitating skin conditions.
CEM-K is the nutrient-rich active ingredient found in the Cape’s Ecklonia maxima species of kelp. According to research it may provide relief from various skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis.
This is because it contains potent vitamins and minerals such as iodine and zinc as well as phlorotannins and fucoidans. These vitamins and minerals have been proven to have anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-viral properties.
READ: This week with Danny and Izelle - healthy skin
How kelp is harvested
The kelp is sustainably harvested by hand, before undergoing a patented manufacturing process to yield the CEM-K, the powerful potent active ingredient in the Dermikelp® range of non-chemical alternatives to soothe skin conditions.
Side-Effects
Before using any treatment, it is important to be aware of the side effects. Research shows that CEM-K’s efficacy in helping relieve skin irritations may be comparable to some allopathic medicines, but without the side effects.
Pharmacist, Giulia Criscuolo explains that those wishing to avoid chemically-laden treatments could now consider clinically proven Dermikelp® with a gentle and natural active ingredient.
READ: Why certain clothes can cause an allergic reaction to your skin
Competition
It’s time to win. Jacaranda FM is giving away an amazing Dermikelp hamper worth R760.
Each winner will each receive hampers that contain:
Dermikelp® Itch Relief Lotion R145
Dermikelp® Skin Spray R165
Dermikelp® Nourishing Milk R190
Dermikelp® Cream 25g R85
Dermikelp® Body Wash R175
To stand a chance to win the competition, take part in the poll below.
READ: Tips to ensure your skin looks moist and radiant in winter