My personal struggle (still) with eczema

by purelytwins

My personal long struggle with eczema.

Today I (Michelle) am sharing something that really is hard for me to talk about sometimes, so please excuse the tears.

As I mentioned in the video I am feeling great in all other parts of my life. So…why do I still have my eczema and why did it get worse? This is the big mystery!!! Very frustrating and embarrassing as I thought I knew my body!

In the middle of March 2014 and going into April I noticed my eczema creeping back.  I have been seeing a naturopathic doctor since March and she has been trying to help me. I got blood work done, she has heard my issues and together we have been trying to find what is causing my itching skin. Both at a lost. Then in May she had me go on a very strict cleanse for 21 days. I did it. I recorded it all inside purely fit life. I shared what I ate and how I was doing every day. The cleanse was very hard as I was still itching bad.

I took pictures of my legs during this time. About half way through the cleanse they got EXTREMELY worse and I had to no idea why.

my journey to heal eczema on legs

As you can see my legs at the beginning of my cleanse in May my legs and red patches were not that bad, but I had horrible itchy skin that I would be itching all the time. Over the course of the cleanse and changing things the red patches started to come. Slowly. And still to this day they haven’t stopped.  And I HAVE NO IDEA WHY?!?!?! Lori and I discuss everything that I have done and we come up with a few ideas, but nothing solid. I have some things I am currently trying and playing around with, which I hope will give me some relief soon. And please note the most recent picture of my legs yesterday – my legs look very red due from just taking a bath.  They are always more intense whenever I get hot.

The only conclusion was it was die-off symptoms from the candida, as that was what my doctor thought I needed to fix. I don’t know any more if candida is my issue or not. There are moments I think yes it could be candida, as I have read more about eczema is caused by candida overgrowth. But the reason I am not convinced completely is that 3 MONTHS later I still have the same “look” and itchy legs. Now die-offs don’t normally last that long, right?

My body is trying to tell me something, but I honestly have NO IDEA what…very frustrating. I literally have tried EVERYTHING that people recommend for eczema.

  • food elimination
  • gut healing protocol (eating more paleo-like, etc)
  • candida protocol
  • omega 3 supplements and oily fish
  • zinc supplement
  • probiotics
  • essential oils to help
  • water filter and hepa filter
  • reduce working out
  • reduce stress
  • taking epsom salt baths**

**which while I was on vacation down in the keys my legs did get a little better! I think one reason was being in salt water everyday. So I have now added sea salt (& baking soda to help with ph) to my baths along with epsom salt, and I just ordered bentonite clay to add to the baths.

before after keys front

before and after keys vacation

Picture on the left is before we left for vacation down at the Keys. And the one on the right is of my legs at the end of our vacation. As you can see my legs seemed to get a little bit better. I think this is from not having much stress, ate and drank what I felt like, used doTerra essential oils heavily, and was in salt water everyday. So interesting to me how the body changes. I know my body wants to heal. And I know it can. I will continue to move forward in finding my solution!! 

I wasn’t sure if I wanted to share this update but I then I realized I need too. Lori and I are always honest with our struggles and I want people to see that this is real for me. I have no idea why my eczema has been so severe this year. I am totally lost..confused…scared.

But I do have hope.

My legs have cleared before and I know they will again.

I do have two different doctor appointments scheduled this month, so for now I will keep doing my own experiments of trial and error.

Thank you for letting me vent and share my struggle.

And to all of my eczema sufferers YOU ARE NOT ALONE!!! HUGS!!! I only pray that you get healed!!!!

I will continue to share things that have been helping me. I have found a few essential oils that I rotate around that give me some relief. My red patches are still here and my itching comes and goes. I have removed more things from my diet in addition to supplements. If I notice any improvement I will give a full report.

Click here to see my eczema update.

xoxo

Michelle

P.S. Please no rude comments as this is a very emotional time for me.

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147 comments

Ashley August 1, 2014 - 10:12 am

Sending you love + healing thoughts. Hang in there Michelle!! xo!!

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 10:32 am

Thank you Ashley!!

Ashley P September 9, 2015 - 3:30 pm

Hi, I know it’s been quite a while since this post, so I don’t know if you will read this or if it’s even relevant anymore for you. Nevertheless, I have keratosis pilaris, and I read about soaking in Bragg’s apple cider vinegar with fresh ground ginger root and epsom salt, and with one 30-minute soak, I can already tell a difference (and my diet has actually been crappier than usual, so I know that probably shouldn’t help as much as it did) Just thought I’d throw this out there for anyone reading

purelytwins September 9, 2015 - 9:22 pm

Thanks for the idea, keep us posted!

Ashley August 1, 2014 - 10:15 am

p.s. I know that being in the sun helps with psoriasis, so maybe the sun also played a role in your legs healing a bit on vacation….? Just a thought. 🙂

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 10:33 am

Yes I think the sun helped too! Wished I lived closer to a beach 😉

sophie August 1, 2014 - 10:16 am

Hi Michelle,

First off – I appreciate and admire your forthcomingness and openness about your personal struggles. You are truly a strong, strong, strong woman. Your vulnerability is a breath of fresh air and made me think of Brene Brown’s TedTalk (here’s a link if you’re interested: https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_on_vulnerability)

Second – that doesn’t necessarily look like eczema…Could it be an allergy? I have a few friends who went through this a little bit and it turned out that they had allergies to the “weirdest” things (i.e. something they were not expecting). One of them was allergic to RUBBER…and even has to special order special socks that don’t contain the elastic that has rubber. He can’t wear certain types of clothes, shoes, etc. The other has a nickel allergy…

I do hope that someone IS able to help…You’ve already done so much for yourself.

Keep your head up. You’re beautiful and inspirational and no matter what, you should be proud of who you are. I wish you all the very best <3

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 10:35 am

Sophie thank you thank you thank you! I will check out that video. And funny you mentioned allergy, as I have been thinking it is no longer eczema but something else. I hope these other too doctors can find what I am allergic too. Thank you again for your comment.

eimearrose August 1, 2014 - 12:19 pm

It doesn’t look like eczema to me either, looks almost like psoriasis without the flaky scabs. It looks really sore pet. I hope you get some good relief! Is it possible that rather than taking things out of your diet to help, maybe it got worse during the cleanse because you were missing certain things, perhaps you metabolise something very fast or something, and your reserves ran out during the cleanse, like one of the fat soluble vitamins. Just thinking out loud, I’m sure you have thought of so many possibilities for so long already. I really hope it gets better soon *hugs*

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 1:49 pm

thanks sweetie, you’re right, thanks for the ideas. I will consider all of them. I will add it all to my what happened list 🙂 thanks for the support!! xoxox

Natalie August 1, 2014 - 10:18 am

Hey there Michelle! I love your blog and I’m sorry you are going thru this! I know you have tried going gluten and dairy free but what about the bulletproof coffee you drink? I have read that coffee can mimic gluten in the body and perhaps the ghee could still be bothering you.

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 10:36 am

Natalie, I am starting to wonder that too. I am thinking of stopping ghee. The thing that is weird is that I have had ghee many times in the past with no issues. But I do know your body can develop new allergies. So maybe.

Emily August 1, 2014 - 10:51 am

Michelle, I am in awe of your courage and clarity in this struggle. My mom struggled for so long with giant open sores on her skin. She never saw a naturopath, but she did see some of the best dermatologists in the country at the University of Michigan. They all thought she had “pseudo porfyria” that was causing the sores. This went on for years and years. She was not nearly as proactive and open-minded as you are, e.g. she didn’t incorporate diet, gut health, stress reduction as treatments, but oh well. Eventually for some reason she stopped taking Aleve, which she had been taking daily for pain for years. Within a week, all her sores cleared up. You are doing everything you can do, and I know it will work out in the end. I am inspired by your courage and vulnerability in sharing this. You’re never alone!!

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 11:14 am

Thank you for sharing your mom’s story with me. Yes I am hoping I find the culprit.

mbreeding August 1, 2014 - 11:03 am

Love and hugs to you!! I know this was a hard video to watch. I am thinking why is it just your legs? How do you shave? I was also thinking an allergy. I mentioned this before to dairy like the eggs, but I noticed I have an intolerance to bananas after eating them for years. I can’t have them now. I get more tired, acne, digestive issues, etc… They say there is a connection with bananas to avocado and kiwi.. not sure this helps. I know you used to make the plantain bread with the eggs.. I have no idea and I am sure that you have thought of everything. I would hate to say the coconut oil since you love it and have it all the time, but just as the bananas are for me now, it could be.. my son is allergic to coconut. I think the appt. with the allergist would be helpful to have a skin test of a bunch of stuff!! I am so sorry and will be praying for you! HUGS!

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 11:16 am

Thank you! I have not had bananas in months!! Same for plantains, I have drastically cut back. I took out eggs for the whole month of May. And since then have gone and off them. So not sure where I stand on that. And coconut oil is something I have been back and forth on, the reason is because I have had it since 2010 and never had patches. But thank you for your comment!!

mbreeding August 1, 2014 - 11:27 am

I don’t know then 🙁 I am very sorry. I meant to say, I know this video was hard to make for you. Appreciate you sharing your struggles and we are here for you every step of the way! HUGS!

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 12:11 pm

thank you sweetie, xoxo

Casey @ Casey the College Celiac August 1, 2014 - 11:07 am

Michelle, I’m so sorry about your struggles and can’t thank you enough for sharing your journey with us. It must not have been easy to share this with us, but we appreciate your vulnerability! I’ve been dealing with a weird, strange itchy rash all over my face for nearly 8 weeks now and it is driving me crazy, so I totally understand your frustration! Good luck and I hope we both will get some answers soon! 🙂

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 11:17 am

Oh no Casey sorry to hear this! Hugs to you!! Hope you find what is causing your rash.

Marin August 1, 2014 - 11:15 am

Dear Michelle,

so sorry to hear you are still struggling. I know how frustrating it can be when you´ve tried to do your absolute best and it never seems good enough. I want you to know I admire the way you´ve been sticking with it and how you keep trying. Don´t give up! As for the comments above; I do have a feeling a change of perspective as to the nature of your condition could be the key. I know you’ll get loads more comments giving you tips and tricks, but I just wanted to give you (like we say in Dutch) a little mental ‘support in the back’. I can imagine being emotional about it doesn’t always feel great, but better out than in, right?

Keep your head up, ok? <3

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 11:19 am

Thank you Marin! And yes better out 😉

Meg @ A Dash of Meg August 1, 2014 - 11:17 am

i am so proud of you for being so open sis! i can do my best to try and figure out something that maybe you have not tried yet! i will look into things today

love you

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 11:19 am

Meg you are too sweet!! Thank you sis.

Heaven August 1, 2014 - 11:22 am

I am allergic to some metals. When I was younger and lived with my parents, my chore was doing the dishes. I would rest my arms on the edge of the metal sink while I washed dishes and my arms started to break out like this. We couldn’t figure out what it was for the longest time. I had several eczema creams that I was supposed to use but they never helped. We finally realized it was from resting my arms on the metal sink and when I stopped doing that, the rashes on my arms eventually cleared up. I pray that you can find some relief!!

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 12:10 pm

thank you Heaven for sharing, hearing your story gives me hope! thank you, I am trying to look elsewhere in my life to see if I am allergic to other things.

Jessica August 1, 2014 - 12:17 pm

Hugs and healing to you, Michelle. I’m so sorry you’re struggling with this. I pray you find a solution soon.

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 1:47 pm

thank you Jessica!!

Meghanne August 1, 2014 - 12:19 pm

Oh Michelle. Stay strong, that must be so uncomfortable. That must be so hard. You are so brave for sharing. Sometimes our body just does things that we can’t explain regardless of diet. Be patient, keep trying new things, you will find a cure.

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 1:48 pm

Thanks Meghanne, I hope so 🙂 I will continue to try thanks for the support!! xoxo

Willowrose August 1, 2014 - 12:24 pm

Thank you for sharing your journey, from someone who struggles with allergies from time to time its great knowing you aren’t alone in this. I really hope you can find out what your trigger is as you can see how difficult you are finding this.
Sending Lots of hugs and positive thoughts, hope maybe your upcoming doctors appointments will help.

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 1:50 pm

thanks! I hope the doctors and test can help too! xoxo

Keri August 1, 2014 - 12:43 pm

Hi Michelle! I’m so sorry to hear about your struggles. I struggled with eczema like yours on my hands for many years. It took me a long time, but I figured out that fermented foods and probiotics were the culprit. I read up on something called histamine intolerance which seemed like what I was going through. I stopped eating kimchi, yogurt, and taking probiotics and it all went all. I haven’t had any symptoms for about six months now. I used to think fermented foods were the answer, but I guess not for everyone. I’m not sure if this information will help, but it worked for me. Also, this lotion called TheraNeem made a world of difference when I had eczema. It was the only topical treatment that gave me relief. I hope you find your answer very soon.

Warm wishes,
Keri

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 1:52 pm

thanks Keri, that’s too funny that you mentioned probiotics, as Lori and I were just thinking that they could be my issue too. I have taken out fermented foods, but have been having lots of probiotics in supplement form, I am slowing cutting back to see if it helps. And I will look into that lotion, thanks!!

Lara August 1, 2014 - 1:16 pm

Hi. I’m sure your head is spinning with everyone’s recommendations 🙂 I would highly suggest you look up an N.A.E.T. Specialist in your area. My husband broke out on his face, arms and stomach (so interesting how it shows up for different people) and the NAET doctor was a lifesaver for him that along with accupunture really helped. Best of luck to you!

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 1:53 pm

thanks Lara that is on my list of things to do, is find a N.A.E.T specialist as I have heard good things. Thanks for sharing!

Whitney August 4, 2014 - 12:17 pm

Hi Michelle,

Just catching up on this and reading the comments, if you are interested, I can send you the name of a naturopathic doctor who also is a NAET specialist in Charlotte. She is a friend of my family, and I trust her a lot. She has helped my sister with allergy and eczema struggles. Praying for you, I know this is a struggle, it looks so painful.

purelytwins August 4, 2014 - 6:46 pm

Whitney that would be great – can you email the information to purelytwins@gmail.com !! thanks!! xoxo

Mariel Cuddihee August 1, 2014 - 1:18 pm

Aw Michelle. It must have taken a lot of courage to post this and I want to congratulate you on being so authentic in this space! I pray you will heal and it was a reminder that I’m not the only one who gets emotionally over my health issue sometimes. After seeing so many people looking perfect it is really refreshing to see your struggle and realize I’m not alone, so thankyou!

xxx

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 1:53 pm

thanks sweetie, and yes you ARE NOT alone!! Lori and I have our issues, we are far from perfect. Hang in there! Love ya

Nicole August 1, 2014 - 2:00 pm

I have very similar issues to you and I saw a naturopath about 6 weeks ago. She made me do bloodwork, an igg food test and stool test. After it came back I cut our all high and moderate foods I was sensitive too and she told me to take grapefruit seed extract, a different super strong probiotic and gave me 3 different tinctures to help my liver. I’ve seen HUGE improvements. It was mostly the food for me. My high and moderate foods were avocado, carrots, zucchini, eggs, walnuts, bananas and almonds. Basically what I ate everyday. Once I cut those it helped tremendously! I hope you find relief soon!

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 3:07 pm

Nicole so sorry to hear that you are having issues too, but so happy to hear that it is getting better!! I hope to get more food allergy test done among other test, but can’t see the doctors until a few weeks, so until the test I will continue to play around with my food. thanks for the support!! xo

MarieNielsen88 August 2, 2014 - 10:22 am

Dear Nicole,

I’m just jumping in to say, I’m SO happy – first of all – to her that you’re having major improvements after getting those results. Cause it makes me calm down a bit to see, that things CAN and WILL improve. I’m going through some very tough times myself, and found out 2 weeks ago that my stable foods ( Banana, sesame and eggs – I’m a true PurelyTwins-girl you know!) 😉 – those were on my IgG-test as problem-foods! I’m 11 days into medication, and still having flair-ups, but reading your story hear gives me a kick in the butt to stay positive!

Thanks! Love Marie

purelytwins August 2, 2014 - 1:39 pm

Yes do not give up!!!

Jesca August 1, 2014 - 2:11 pm

Hi Michelle,

I understand your pain in this. I used to have eczema so bad I had scarring. I had it so bad on my hands that they were constantly bleeding and I think there was a bit long-term damage, because I have delayed reaction to touching really hot things (just on my hands) and when I do burn myself, it won’t blister. My hands also look like they belong more to a 45 year old woman instead of a girl in her late 20s. I used to get it really bad on the back of my legs and around my ankles, inside my arms, over my hip joints. Now, it’s completely clear and has been for years. The eczema around my ankles cleared up some when I started wearing cotton socks under my shinguards (I played soccer all through high school). The rest of my eczema really cleared up completely when I stopped eating gluten around 6 years ago. I know you don’t eat gluten, but I think it’s got to be some sort of allergy to something your getting by eating it or touching it. I have had minor flair ups here and there when some sort of pollen or something is in the air gets on my skin or I breathe it, but it’s rare and minor. I did have a really bad flair up recently, it was all over me and I couldn’t figure out what it was. It ended up being baby oil! I had been using it as a moisturizer and it was fine for like months but then all of a sudden I get allergic to it! I switched to coconut oil mixed with lavender oil and, eventually it cleared up and I’ve been ok since then, but it took about a month to clear up. It was the worst I’d had in years! But coconut oil and lavender is amazing moisturizer. It’s amazing for your face too because both are anti-microbial (and lavender is anti-aging too!) so they don’t cause acne breakouts either! They actually prevent them! My younger sister has had trouble with eczema too that was caused by things like certain laundry soaps, shampoos (I’ve gotten it from shampoos too), perfumes, soaps, and even fabrics and believe it or not, dog food! She didn’t eat the dog food! haha! it was from reaching her hand into the dog food bucket to feed our dog! Fabrics that she reacts to are actually the kinds that are used in most athletic clothing. This might be something you might want to test out too since you do wear athletic clothing all the time. Maybe try wearing only cotton for awhile, or change your sheets to something organic and cotton even maybe. I don’t know. I hope this helps a little or a lot I don’t know. I’m just telling you everything I’ve figured out because eczema is miserable and it itches and hurts and bleh. Oh and something that has helped when I’ve had little flair ups here and there more recently has been this silver shield gel http://www.naturessunshine.com/us/product/silver-shield-gel-3-oz-tube/4950/ . I used to use a steroid cream like cortisone or something but I really don’t think those are good for you. This works just as well. I hope I’ve helped some! Good luck in all this and prayers. Difficult things have to end eventually – at least that’s what I keep telling myself these days, haha! I have trouble holding to the hope sometimes though, but yeah. I believe it for you though!

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 3:11 pm

thanks Jesca, I hope to get tested for a lot of things here in a week when I finally get to see the allergist. It’s so interesting to hear about what others are allergic too. Crazy how the body works. That’s a great idea about the athletic clothing, etc. I will definitely look into that more. Thanks for the comment and for sharing your story!! hugs

Gina @ Running to the Kitchen August 1, 2014 - 2:13 pm

Oh girl, sending lots of love your way. I can completely relate. I’ve had ezcema all my life and have outbreaks here and there. About 5 years ago it got so bad (all over my legs, up my torso and into my armpits) that after 2 months of trying everything I could (and even having a biopsy taken at the dermotologist), the allergist was finally my savior. Well her and steriods. haha I hate resorting to them but it was the only thing that worked. It’s like my body needed a jump start of something intense because it was so inflammed before it would respond to anything else. So between the oral steroids and then some creams, it finally went away. I can so vividly remember crying to my mom on the phone (she’s a nurse practitioner) thinking it would never go away and I’d have to live with it forever during that episode. It was horrible. I’d try so hard to not scratch it and then once you start, it’s like impossible to stop. Hang in there. I hope you get some relief and answers soon 🙂

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 3:13 pm

thanks Gina, so sorry to hear that you suffered from eczema too, not fun. I have tried the steroid creams in the past and got no relief, but maybe this time it would be different. Thanks for sharing your story! Glad things are better for you now. HUGS

amanda jewell August 1, 2014 - 2:39 pm

Oh Michelle,

I’m so sorry you’re struggling with this right now. I can only imagine how frustrated you must feel as I’ve watched you try just about everything to heal your body. I really hope that you find comfort in knowing that you have a whole community behind you who think you are beautiful, strong, and incredible. <3

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 3:13 pm

Me too Amanda 🙂 Thanks for the sweet words and support, it means a lot to me. Thank you!

the delicate place (@misathemeb) August 1, 2014 - 2:57 pm

hey michelle, sorry to hear you are going through this. it looks like plaque psoriasis to me and i think a combo of a systemic pill like methotrexate (initially used for cancer tx, but now inhibits an enzyme involved in the rapid growth of skin cells and slows down their growth rate for people suffering with skin disorders). additionally, a topical corticosteroid might help ease the symptoms. uv light therapy is often used to help improve the condition (which aligns with your beach vacation and marked improvement). hope this helps!

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 3:15 pm

thanks sweetie, I will look more into plaque psoriasis! And yes thinking the sun helped 🙂 guess I need to get out more. Thanks for the suggestions!!

jen August 2, 2014 - 10:41 pm

I agree looks like psoriasis and that would explain why the salt water helped. I’ve had eczema all my life and I’m allergic to aloe which is in all the natural and sensitive skin stuff, so I have to read everything. I found this lady at my farmers market and she makes a sea salt soap and it has done wonders for my skin. scroll down to were it says Sea Salt Detox Soap Pink Himalayan VEGAN. I’m now thinking I would love to try my hand at making my own! I hope your able to figure it out, skin issues are the worse but your brave to share your story. http://rockycornersoapworks.com/catalog.php?category=3

purelytwins August 3, 2014 - 8:19 am

thanks Jen!

Allison August 1, 2014 - 3:00 pm

Dear Michelle,

I am so sorry to hear about your struggle. I think that it’s incredible that despite your pain and suffering, you are willing to share your journey with others in order to help them. I also admire you for not having a defeatist attitude towards your eczema-maybe allergy, and I think that it is for this reason that you will find the answer to “why this is happening.”

Good luck and best wishes!
from the heart,
Allison

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 3:15 pm

Allison thank you so much!!! I hope I find why it’s happening soon 🙂 thanks xoxo

Cassandra August 1, 2014 - 4:52 pm

Hi Michelle,

I have been following your blog and recipes for a few years now. I really feel that this is a powerful video that will create community and hope. Thank you so much for sharing. I had eczema as a kid so I know how bad that itch is. As a yoga teacher, I wanted to offer some ideas from Ayurveda. Now I am not a professional ayurvedic specialist or anything, but I do know that rashes are a pitta imbalance and can come from excess “heat” conditions like anger, overdoing and overthinking things, or even something like over-working out, perfectionism, intensity, etc. There are lists of pitta aggravating foods, ie maybe rash aggravating. For example, spicy foods are pitta aggravating. Dr Vasant Lad is awesome and has some books https://www.ayurveda.com/, Here is an article on excess pitta. http://www.banyanbotanicals.com/nl/807.html

Also, wide leg forward fold in standing position and any wide leg postures usually help dispel excess heat. Finally, I do offer energy healing which you might consider. It has always been dramatically helpful for me and can get to the roots of some hard to see stress.

All light and healing to you,
Cassandra

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 6:26 pm

thank you Cassandra for your ideas, I know all about Ayurveda, I used to always think I was vata but I will look into pitta. So interesting. Thanks for the yoga tips too!! xo

Sara August 1, 2014 - 4:56 pm

Have you tried Complete Omega by Nordic Natutals? It has GLA in it from borage seeds. GLA can be very helpful for the skin, and Nordic is the best fish oil, imho. Good luck!

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 6:26 pm

I have taken borage oil before, and got some relief. I take FCLO and like it. THanks for the brand suggestion.

Raw-Mama August 1, 2014 - 5:50 pm

Stay strong, Although I don’t suffer for eczema now, I went through a long period in my 20’s when It use to cover the whole of my face. Thank you for sharing.

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 6:27 pm

thanks for the words of encouragement!

Sonja August 1, 2014 - 6:01 pm

Hi Michelle,
This is Sonja from 105 Degrees. I feel for you. It is very annoying, and very persistent. I have suffered from eczema since my childhood. I had bad bouts of it here and there. I now do not have any eczema. Stress is a big thing. For sure. But what I did was to completely remove dairy and gluten from my diet AND did a flush of my childhood vaccines with homeopathy. Something is definitely triggering your skin to react. The good thing is that is does not leave any issues on your skin once healed and it is absolutely possible to heal. Keep searching and I hope you find a solution soon!
All the best!
Sonja

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 6:28 pm

thank you Sonja!!! This helps me to know that I can heal and gives me more hope. thanks

Averie @ Averie Cooks August 1, 2014 - 6:32 pm

Thank you for being so open and sharing so freely and I am so sorry you are suffering and going through this!!!!! ((HUGS)) I have psoriasis and I can relate to it all. Gosh, sweetie, hang in there and stay strong. It’s so hard, I know, but sending you love and healing vibes!! xoxo

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 7:36 pm

thank you Averie!! xo

Abby August 1, 2014 - 6:57 pm

Sweet girl. Can I just pray for you?

God, I pray that you would heal Michelle from every single bit of her eczema. Bring peace and hope to her heart. Show her that her total loss for direction and frustration is the ultimate reason to seek you and trust you in all things! You made her beautiful and you love her so so so so much!

You girls mean a lot to me and I want you to know that I care about your struggles and success, even though I’m just a fellow web workout friend. I do your workouts multiple days per week even thought I’m not a part of the club yet.

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 7:37 pm

Abby I would love that 🙂 Thank you so much!! We appreciate the support of doing our workouts! xoxo

Trista August 1, 2014 - 7:54 pm

Thanks for sharing! I can share in your frustration, but I can honestly say your eczema looks much more uncomfortable. For me, it’s on one of my hands. But it gets bright red and inflamed, the skin splits open and it’s embarrassing when people notice it. I’ve been trying to figure out how to heal mine too, and I think it’s all trial and error. And I think it’s going to take some time to heal. Hang in there!

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 8:04 pm

Trista yes it takes time but don’t give up!! Sending you healing HUGS

shanna August 1, 2014 - 7:59 pm

When I was in my early 20’s (I’m 34 now) I had extreme breakouts on my legs just like you. Now I only deal with a small rash on my hands and sometimes on my face. To treat it I use apple cider vinegar with “the mother” in it. Bragg’s brand is what I use. You can dilute it in a spray bottle with water and spray it on the rash throughout the day. It stings a bit but its worth it to get some relief. I pour it undiluted on my hands when they breakout too. It doesn’t make it go away completely but it does provide relief and keeps it from getting out of control.

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 8:04 pm

Thanks Shanna for sharing!

Ana August 1, 2014 - 9:11 pm

Hi Michelle,

Thank you for sharing your story! I agree this does not look like eczema but rather the result of a severe nickel allergy, MY friends son has this and he develops a similar rash if he eats any food that contain nickel or have been exposed to nickel while growing or manufacturing. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3667300/

May be worth investigating? Best of luck to you! Don’t worry, it will pass and it does not define who you are! We all love you and your blog is an inspiration! My husband demands I make your protein brownie bread once a month minimum!

XO,

Ana

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 10:06 pm

Ana thank you for your comment and I have actually thought about nickel. I will look more into it thanks! Glad you husband enjoys the recipe 🙂

Andi August 1, 2014 - 9:37 pm

I’m so glad you have some medical appointments coming up. That must be biopsied! It coul be psoriasis (I do not think that is eczema!) but more concerning is mycosis fungoides, which is a T cell lymphoma. It is becoming much more prevalent in younger folks and is very serious. Please keep is posted. I use natural remedies myself but this has clearly crossed into far more serious territory. Please keep is posted.

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 10:10 pm

Thank you Andi for your comment!

Sam August 1, 2014 - 9:58 pm

Big hug, Michelle! Wishing you all the best in figuring this out. You are beautiful no matter what, always remember that!! Xoxo

purelytwins August 1, 2014 - 10:10 pm

Thank you Sam!!

QQ August 1, 2014 - 10:43 pm

I’m going to say something that will probably ruffle a lot of readers’ feathers: not every unhealthy condition is caused by a dietary problem, and therefore won’t be solved by a dietary change. It’s very likely that your condition got worse during the cleans since you were throwing off your entire immune system, either due to inadequate nutrition that’s often the case in “cleanses”, or simply because you were forcing your body to adjust to a new regime, taking away from its healing processes.

If it’s autoimmune, like Psoriasis, it can certainly be triggered or worsened with stress or poor diet – or with immune changes from switching diets. But a dietary solution will not change your genetics, and you might need “Western” medicine for relief.

I’m not saying dietary or natural remedies are bad – if they work, they absolutely should be the first line. But they aren’t the solution to every problem. Especially if your health and nutrition are otherwise immaculate.

purelytwins August 2, 2014 - 9:56 am

Thank you QQ for sharing and yes I agree.

Kat August 2, 2014 - 12:21 am

<3<3 Healing thoughts your way… I know you are helping so many people struggling with this right now by being so open and sharing your journey. You are truely blessed. I know you will figure this out <3<3

purelytwins August 2, 2014 - 9:56 am

Thank you Kat!

Kat August 2, 2014 - 12:25 am

Oh, I hate to be that person that piles on the advice but I wanted to mention that I used to break out in hives because of my protein powder (I do ok with hemp though) Once I stopped that I was ok, my after workout protein is raw farm eggs in organic chocolate milk, weird I know but if it was good enough for rocky… Hugs sweetie xox

purelytwins August 2, 2014 - 9:57 am

🙂

Sylwia August 2, 2014 - 12:28 am

You are so beautiful Michelle, inside and out. Sending lots of love and respect to you and bunch of hugs too. Stay positive and strong, you are one amazing chick. We all are here for you to support and listen! Thank you for sharing!

purelytwins August 2, 2014 - 9:57 am

Thank you Sylwia!

tina August 2, 2014 - 3:07 am

Hi Michelle,

I could honestly feel your pain while watching this video. We all have struggles and can relate in our own ways, so offering support to you is all I can do. Given that you’ve hacked just about every dietary component with so many elimination diets and eating styles over the past view years, I have a sense that it’s something you’re being exposed to environmentally. Have you thought about pets/fur/dander as the cause. Pets are an extremely common allergen and eczema trigger. You’re around Lori and her dog often so that’s constant, repeated exposure. When you were on vacation there were no pets (primarily dogs and cats) around, were there? Just a thought. Sending you many hugs and positive wishes.

tina

purelytwins August 2, 2014 - 9:59 am

Tina yes that is a thought we have had too!!

Emma August 2, 2014 - 5:03 am

Sending lots of love and courage to you Michelle. I’m so sorry you’re dealing with this and I really admire your strength and commitment to doing what you can to heal.
I don’t have any advice as I’ve never dealt with eczema, though I had a horrible bout of psoriasis when dealing with candida which fortunately cleared up after following a candida diet for a few months.
Stay strong, we’re all rooting for you xx

purelytwins August 2, 2014 - 10:00 am

Thank you Emma! Glad you found relief.

Melissa C August 2, 2014 - 8:04 am

Hi Michelle, I am so sorry you are still battling eczema 🙁 I know you must be so frustrated as you are working so hard to heal it. I had a couple thoughts for you…. has your naturopath tested you for other autoimmune disease? I know from experience, once you have one autoimmune disease you are more susceptible to others. The other thought is, have you thought about taking the ALCAT blood test to look for other food allergies? One of my co-workers suggested this to me once I deliver my baby to find out what I am allergic to. Hugs to you!!!

purelytwins August 2, 2014 - 10:00 am

Melissa she has not tested me for other things. And I have her looking into MRT testing.

MarieNielsen88 August 2, 2014 - 10:09 am

Dearest Michelle.

Thank you for sharing your struggle. So inspiring, though it’s a very tough time for you! I know how hard it is, when it seems like you’re doing everything you can, you spend huge amounts of money on special products, naturopaths and so on, eliminating this and that ingredient, but nothing helps!

I send my biggest hugs and blessings too you <3 I hope the next appointment will help you get to the core problem.

Last year my mom had this serious attack (looking very similar to yours), though she hadn't changed anything in her diet or done anything different. She got tested for allergies, but nothing stood out. But it was very clear it was her nickel allergy flaring up and giving her these hive-attacks. She tried to stay away from foods which could cross-react, that helped a bit.
BUT the big Q was still – why did it happen?

It turned out it was because she was under major psychical stress. She had so many fears inside herself, which were totally normal, since it happened during the time when after/while I was still on the edge of life because of my ED. She simply feared that I would die. (Any mother would do that!, so of course her body responded when the worst storm was over).
She kept saying that she wasn't stressed, that she felt fine and was doing okay (despite the night-long-raches-attacks).

I don't know – I'm sure you have checked this too, but maybe it was worth trying to approach it more psychical? Are you fearing anything in your life right know? Something you keep thinking about, any trauma?

According to Louise Hay in "You can heal yourself", hives is caused by small, hidden fears. Like mountains out of mole hills. And she recommend creating a new thought pattern: "I bring peace to every corner of my life". (Maybe you already know this?)

I'm no doctor, expert or anything (I learn a lot of the things I know from you girls 😉 ) hehe… I'm just sharing my thoughts because I care So much for you, are beyond grateful for YOUR support and want you to get better ASAP <3 <3 <3

With lots of love
Marie

purelytwins August 2, 2014 - 1:38 pm

Marie THANK YOU!!! I think you are so right, actually these past few weeks I have been thinking more and more about why did this happen now. And I do believe it is stress and emotional things I have been facing these past few years. I actually just got a Louise Hay book, so now I am more excited to read it. Thank you again for sharing 🙂 Happy loving thoughts to myself xoxo

Marie August 6, 2014 - 4:11 am

You are more than welcome! So glad it served you well, sweetheart 🙂 I hope you will find more ease and relief by reading her books! I guess we both know deep inside that lots of our gut-troubles has to do with the stress and emotional things we’ve been going through, right. That’s why we’re also the ones to change it. Easier said than done – but first step is to see it 🙂
– just read the update on your latest post. So proud of you to step out of the supplements AND not do any special diet other than YOU own, and already doing better… awesome!! <3 <3

Hugs! (Keep up the yoga, girl 😉 haha..)

lindsay August 2, 2014 - 7:58 pm

you are beautiful, no matter what! but i truly think stress damages so much. You know i can relate to how the body reacts. Maybe we need to move to an island? praying for you and thank you for sharing your reality with us. we are here, alwas! just like you are for us!. xxoo

purelytwins August 2, 2014 - 8:54 pm

I would love to move to island with you!! Thank you dear friend for the support and love!

Casey August 3, 2014 - 2:54 am

Hi Michelle

I’m so sorry for the pain you are in, physically and emotionally. I feel for you deeply.

I’m not sure if you know my background already but I was covered literally from head to toe in eczema from childhood and it was about 10 times more severe than yours. And so so itchy. I was admitted to hospital and put on morphine many times as well as using steroids daily for 25 years to be able to live with the pain. I thank you for sharing your struggle and frustration so openly. It takes guts I know.

Many things eventually helped me bit by bit to dramatically lessen my eczema, but the two that made the biggest difference in the least amount of time were:
Going on a low histamine diet. You can just google this. Helps a ton to reduce itchiness right away. If you’re itchy your histamine levels will be super high and so eating any histamine contain got triggering foods sends the itchiness over the top.
And secondly getting tested for food intolerances and steering clear of those things religiously. They change as you know but it helps with the current inflammation. Your body can’t heal until what it’s reacting to is removed as it is in a constant state of reaction and stress otherwise.

Also a heck of a lot of meditation and visualization kept my mental health managing through the extreme and savage pain.

Sending you so much love and seeing you healed very soon!
Xoxo

purelytwins August 3, 2014 - 8:21 am

thank you so much Casey, I am so sorry to hear that you suffered with this issue but so happy to hear that you are better 🙂 yay! And yes I am looking to get some food test done to help give me a place to start and I am trying to watch my histamine foods! Thanks for the suggestions and support!! xo

joanne August 3, 2014 - 3:37 am

Michelle,
You are so brave and strong for sharing this video. I am so sorry you are dealing with skin rashes and truly hope you find the cause or allergy so that you can heal. I know the pain of what you are going through in the way that you are trying to heal yourself and nothing seems to be working.

I know many of the comments have mentioned some allergies and foods that could be causing your eczema. However, I did just want to mention something else to think about. Many people are deficient in the enzyme to convert folic acid to it’s methylated form..leading to mthfr deficiency. It’s actually quite common and is genetic. Genetic testing can be done to determine if you are deficient but also asking for a blood test to check homocysteine levels is another option. If someone is deficient, not only will homocysteine be higher than normal, but it can also lead to many other symptoms including skin rashes or psoriasis, if you think it may not be eczema. This may or may not be an issue for you, but I just wanted to give you something to think about.

Thank you for sharing your story, and I wish you the best in your healing journey!

purelytwins August 3, 2014 - 8:22 am

thanks Joanne for sharing your thoughts, I will add that to my list to consider! thanks!

Caitlin August 3, 2014 - 8:13 am

Michelle,

I know the pain and emotions and despair and everything that goes along with eczema and it’s outbreaks. I know that you’ll find a light at the end of the tunnel – soon I’m sure!
I am also on a journey to healing my eczema – after having it as a child, then it disappearing for many years only for it to reappear with a vengence a couple of years back.

Big hugs, rainbows & light being sent to you! =)

purelytwins August 3, 2014 - 8:23 am

thanks Caitlin! Wishing you all the best as well. xo

Amy August 3, 2014 - 3:31 pm

Hi Michelle,

I have been struggling with eczema too; however, I have found only one way for me to bear my skin. I have it on my scalp, face, and legs the worst. I began my personal research for help when the products my dermatologist gave me only gave relief for certain patches of eczema. The other products were ineffective for the rest. For my scalp, I use Neem oil products (Theraneem), and it works very well. It doesn’t take care of all of the flakes, but my head doesn’t typically bleed anymore. And the itching is usually bearable and intermittent. For my face, I’ve had to resort to a prescription because I cannot figure out a way to eliminate or even alleviate any of the symptoms in any other way, even with all of my experimenting. I’m trying to find natural products, but they are not working. And my face would look like your legs and be raw and bleeding if I didn’t. 🙁 This frustrates me because I know the negative side effects of using the prescription and am nervous about it. My next attempt will be to eliminate gluten completely…so it is an ongoing experiment. However, for my legs, I buy Tate’s Miracle Conditioner from my local health food store, a BufPuf (from Amazon) that I use on my legs every shower or bath that I take, and Aveeno Baby Soothing Relief Creamy Wash from Target. Using all three of these has provided the most relief on my legs that I have experienced ever. Otherwise, my legs were constantly itchy all the time and in so much pain I would cry in the shower or in my room. I nearly threw out anything that exposed my legs I was in so much pain. The Tate’s Conditioner I use like a lotion after every shower or bath on a daily basis. The relief is IMMEDIATE, and I tried eliminating it once. But I was back to crying and in extreme pain. So, I’ve been using it consistently for about five years now. In the first few years, I used it every day without fail. The BufPuf was EXTREMELY painful at first, but it wasn’t more painful than when I shaved my legs. So, I put up with it. All of a sudden in about a week, it felt good! And I won’t take a full shower without using it anymore all over my body! It relieves the eczema and keratosis pilaris on other parts as well! The patches and spots on my legs faded and disappeared! And the Aveeno Baby Creamy body wash was because I read that creamy body wash was the best for eczema plus I began shopping in the baby section because all of my research led there. And I found other products that worked well including California Baby products. Those are amazing, and I recommend any mother use them for their baby, or even the mother! I used the lotions, shampoos, and conditioners for a while, and they continued to work. But I had other issues with them, so when I found the Theraneem products worked to clear the eczema in the same way and cleared up my other issues, I moved away from them. I don’t know if you tried any of these products or are open to them. But I thought I’d share because I have found them to be very effective and my only solution that has worked. I’ve tried the other things people recommend too…and nothing worked. I do still get flare-ups, but I treat them with Aveeno Active Naturals Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Cream, which is another baby lotion from Target, and almost immediate relief from the pain or itch. Typically, the patch or spot eventually disappears within a couple of hours. My method is not perfect, but for now, it’s as close to normal as I can get with my busy life. I hope some of this helps. It’s an expensive, long road of research, trial and error. I feel for you and know exactly how it feels. Keep moving forward and experimenting!! 🙂

purelytwins August 3, 2014 - 8:27 pm

Amy thank you sweetie for sharing your story!! So sorry you are in pain, but glad you have found some relief!! And I would not worry too much about taking medicine for your face because sometimes if it helps then it’s worth it!! And I have not heard of these products I will look into them for sure. As I will be curious if my skin likes them as I have yet to find something that they do!! Even natural oils are not working. So thank you!

Beth M. August 3, 2014 - 5:19 pm

This may seem like a totally off the wall suggestion but my sister had a problem like this with a continual rash that varied in how bad it was. She thought it was allergies and tried elimating so many things but nothing helped and she couldn’t figure out what it was until she finally discovered she had bed bugs.Your pictures look similar. She also suffered an allergic reaction to the bites which is not uncommon and can cause a severe rash.I know it sounds gross and may seem far out there but it would be worth checking. They are pretty easy to find if you check the folds of your mattresd and under your mattress and in other crevices. And it is very common to take them with you even when you relocate since they hide well (or even to get them because they van hide in stuff and be spread that way). Hopefully that is not an offensive suggestion. I just know sometimes it’s not your body that’s the problem! So sorry you’re having trouble and I hope you are able to figure it out soon!

purelytwins August 3, 2014 - 8:28 pm

Beth oh no thank you!!! The more ideas the better as I am at lost. I do have really old mattresses and have checked for bed bugs, but it is worth a deeper look. Thanks!

Brooke August 3, 2014 - 7:10 pm

YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL AND STRONG!!! Sending positive thoughts your way. Thank you for sharing your story.

purelytwins August 3, 2014 - 8:29 pm

Thank you Brooke!!

Jessi August 3, 2014 - 8:25 pm

Instead of changing you diet maybe try treating it from the outside? I don’t have eczema, but I have super sensitive skin, and it’s always been a huge problem until now, until I tried natural products and oils to treat it instead of commercial stuff loaded with chemicals, I use coconut oil everyday as a lotion, regular lotion would make my skin break out and become itchy, now that never happens. On my face I use the most natural baby sunscreen I can find (I use baby products because their gentle), and my problem skin has gotten better and better everyday since I started using it. It works because of the zinc oxide in it, it’s the main ingredient in diaper rash cream, so it works like a dream for inflamed and itchy skin. That’s what worked for me, I thought maybe it could help you too. 🙂 I found one cream, I have not tried it yet though, but I will soon, it’s made for rashes and problem skin. http://vegancuts.com/offer/skinagain-relief (awesome website, lots of vegan & natural body products!) just suggestions! I really hope you find something that helps Hun! Much love <3

purelytwins August 3, 2014 - 8:52 pm

I only use natural products and have been for years. For some reason my body is not liking them on my legs, they get worse when I do. Thanks for the suggestions though.

Sara August 3, 2014 - 11:55 pm

Michelle, thank you! This really touched me, as it reminds me of my struggle with my auto-immune disease. I have periods were I think I am getting better and then out of no where I get terrible flare ups (I feel worse). I hate that feeling of when you try everything and you feel that nothing is working….its almost exhausting at times….like getting punched in the stomach! (anyway, that is I feel at times with my body).
I am praying for you…through the fight, the tears, the good days, and the bad.
I am not going to offer any suggestions, as every BODY is different….I just hope and believe that you will get better 🙂 Faith and Hope will give you the energy to keep fighting!
All my best!

purelytwins August 4, 2014 - 9:12 am

Thank you Sara for your support!! Wishing you all the best too!

Sara August 4, 2014 - 12:28 am

Dear Michelle,

I don’t think that I have ever commented on a blog before, but your story was so familiar and moving that I have to share my story. I have struggled with atopic skin and eczemas caused by it since the age of three. Couple years ago my eczema got out of hand: i had rash on my face, arms, back, legs… Basically everywhere. The rash was so itchy and painful that I cried myself to sleep every night. I did do cortisol creams and pills as well as sunbathing on a clinic (in UVA machine) as well as abroad, but my skin didn’t really get radically better until I changed several aspects of my life. I don’t want to use this as a commercial break, but I would like to share with you some of the products that helped me as you might find some of these helpful as well.

First of all, as you said yourself, stress was definitely a factor for me. Reducing work stress as well as changing the place where I work were one factor. We had had water damage in the building that I used to work and afterwards I have started to suspect that there might have been mould. I also changed my diet dairy and gluten free (I don’t even use ghee). Skin specialists here in Finland recommend that skin with eczema should be washed often with soap-free products and mild water, so I started using SebaMed Olive Oil wash in shower: http://www.sebamedusa.com/pafrolfabowa.html After trying several creams and products, I have found relief with Aqualan Duo (which I use every day as a daycream for my whole body): http://www.itsehoitoapteekki.fi/tuotteet1/perusvoiteet/aqualan-duo/ and Ceralan Plus (which I use every night as a nightcream): http://www.itsehoitoapteekki.fi/tuotteet1/perusvoiteet/ceralan-plus/ I’m sorry that I couldn’t find information in English about the creams, but thank God for Google translator, right? 😉

In addition to reducing stress, changing my diet, starting to wash my skin according to doctor’s order and finding the right creams for daily use, I also started to take vegetable omega oils. Nowadays sea buckthorn oil capsules and blackcurrant seed oil capsules are essential part of my daily diet, especially during the winter. I use these brand available in Finland: http://www.seabuckthornoil.com/en/products/omega7-double-sea-buckthorn-oil-capsule and http://www.valioravinto.fi/iho-omega (in Finnish again, sorry…)

The bottom line is that my ezcemas are now a thing in the past. I still have mild rash time to time, but mostly it is if I slip from my diet or skin care routines. One last tip: a friend of mine spent a year in Iceland, where they treat eczemas and psoriasis with geothermal water rich in minerals. There are several spas but Blue Lagoon might be the best known: http://www.bluelagoon.com/ I have a spa holiday in Iceland on my to-do -list, maybe we’ll meet there? 🙂

I wish you all the best! Don’t let the ezcema stop you for enjoying life, you deserve more.

BR,
Sara from Finland

purelytwins August 4, 2014 - 9:14 am

Sara thank you for sharing what works for you! And yes thank goodness for translator 😉 I would love to meet you at the Blue Lagoon spa!! Maybe one day. Thank you again for commenting it means the world.

Judy Sanchez August 7, 2014 - 2:25 am

Michelle,

I know you are hurting right now, both physically and emotionally, and I admire you for being able to share that with so many of us, all whilst staying positive. While my eczema began as a kid on my forearms—think where you would rest your arms to wash dishes or take notes, it went away, only to return with a vengeance in my 20’s, mostly confined to my face. My eyes would swell shut, the skin around them cracking and oozing, as well as around my mouth and along the center of my neck. I tried various dermatologists, steroids, creams, only to find that all of the symptoms returned when I stopped using them. At a loss with western medicine, I turned to a combination of self-education help, and the help of a Chinese herbal doctor and acupuncturist. He recommended food aversion therapy, beginning with the elimination of all dairy and gluten. Fast forward 5 years, and I have learned to really tune into how what I eat makes me feel. Eliminating all Gluten, Dairy, Red meat, and avocado from my diet cleared it up. For the occasional flare up, I swear by the following cream, which stops my skin from scaling and cracking and is made from all natural products: http://www.navajoaccents.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=7&products_id=14 They make both a small jar, and a large jar, and a little goes a long way. I hope that you find relief soon. You are beautiful and courageous and I am sending all of my love and healing thoughts.

Judy S.

purelytwins August 7, 2014 - 10:18 am

thanks Judy, I will look into the cream, so happy to hear that your eczema is better!! yay! I hope to find my solution soon!

Shal August 13, 2014 - 1:13 pm

Hi Michelle,
I suffer from eczema too. I am 22 now and it has improved so much over the last year I sometimes stop and just marvel at it. My skin is very scarred on my hands, feet and legs. But my skin is smooth and for the most part breakout free! If I am working too many days in a row (I am a nurse) then I notice my hands breaking out with cracking and rash. But some zinc ointment or Vitamin E serum helps to clear that up.
What did I do? A part of it might have been that I grew out of it.(?) But the change happened over 1 year for the most part so Im not sure. I used a lot of moisturizer, the thicker the better. I loved Nivea, or aveeno. I used Vitamin E serum to help with the bad itchy patches, this also helped a bit with my scars. I avoided spicy or acidic foods, especially tomatoes. I avoided dairy products. I avoided allergens, such as dogs, cats and horses. These all helped I noticed, but not clearing it up, it would always come back. In my childhood and early teens I had a few hospital stays because it was so bad my skin was just seeping. As I’ve gotten old I can control my scratching more with will power.
Then I went to my doctor because I was at my wits end. I was soo itchy and my face was red and patchy, my legs were scabbed and sore from scratching. I was just miserable. She directed me to a dermatologist. I began light treatments twice a week. I was not sure about this because I didn’t want to be at risk for things like skin cancer! But the UV B light treatments were a miracle. About a month later I felt like I was seeing results! I dropped down to once a week a few months later, and now I don’t go at all. They said if I started having outbreaks of rash again I should come back.
Like I said before, I am over a year later with hardly any ezcema! I can sleep at night without scratching. I am not as self conscious in public because of the rash. I still have self confidence issues with the scarring but I usually wear clothes that cover or partially cover most of my skin:P
So that’s my long story, haha. I hope you find what works for you!

purelytwins August 13, 2014 - 6:37 pm

Thank you so much Shal for sharing your story. I see a dermatologist at the end of the month and I will ask about the light therapy. Someone else mentioned it to me too. I am so happy you have found relief!!! hugs.

Rebecca August 14, 2014 - 8:35 pm

I assume this would be different than sitting in the sun?

Rebecca August 14, 2014 - 8:34 pm

I have a question. 🙂
So I have struggled with lesser bouts of eczema since I was young. But in the last 5 + years it has gotten progressively worse. My most current, long-running bout started two years ago this fall when I restarted the GAPS diet. Since then it has generally only gotten progressively worse with brief periods of some relief.
As far as diet I have all but given up. I eat generally homemade foods, but I have gone back to eating some grains and gluten and bits of diary (cheese).
My question to you, with your most current bout of eczema on your legs…
It is clear that you have labored and researched and tried many things. How do you continue to avoid many foods when you do not see progress, when you do not know what the trigger is? This is my current discouragement. When I see that my skin changes very little depending on what I eat.
I admire your perseverance and I hope you are able to find relief. It is such a frustrating ordeal as well as embarrassing at times, painful and itchy!
Hugs.

purelytwins August 14, 2014 - 9:29 pm

Rebecca, sorry to hear that you are suffering too! For me, I just go back and forth with what foods to avoid. It’s frustrating as I don’t know if its really food related or not, but I keep trying new things. I am just avoiding a few things at the moment.

Sandra August 15, 2014 - 2:53 am

I am so moved after watching this video and I can so relate. You are a strong and beautiful women.

My advice to you is to look at stuff you eat/use on a daily basis. For me, it turned out to be citric acid – it is found in beauty products (most shampoos and body lotions and/or shower gels have it or its derivative aka citrate); it is used as a natural preservative in food as well. Additives/preservatives (nitrites, etc), dyes, artificial flavorings and colors, and chemicals can be hidden culprits – even natural spices can trigger reactions (cinnamon makes me itch). It is hard to test for those. I had to make a huge lifestyle change after discovering what triggered my eczema. I totally avoid any beauty products containing anything that I am also allergic/intolerant to. Look at your laundry detergent, body lotions, perfumes, or household cleaners, etc. Try to only use non-toxic personal and cleaning products (for showering, laundry, etc). I often avoid anything with parabens, sulfates, dyes, etc. I use whipped shea butter for my body and face. Check this out: http://www.treehugger.com/organic-beauty/20-toxic-ingredients-avoid-when-buying-body-care-products-and-cosmetics.html

Stay strong. I battled eczema for years (since a kid till my late twenties). I am now eczema-free. I believe that you will find a solution to your problem.

Also, look into Autoimmune Progesterone Dermatitis or any hormonal issues.

Coconut oil and aloe vera can be very soothing for outbreaks – unless you are allergic to those.

Good luck.

purelytwins August 15, 2014 - 10:08 am

thank you Sandra for sharing your story and tips!! I was considering citric acid. And yes I have been using all natural – making my own products, but I will look at everything just to make sure. Coconut oil doesn’t seem to help, so I am still trying to find something that does. THanks again! So glad to hear you are doing well.

Danielle August 23, 2014 - 4:12 pm

Michelle, thank you for your bravery in being honest and humble about your struggles. It’s very inspiring to know that you can put yourself out there in hopes that others won’t feel alone and might have more hope. I pray it gets better! Don’t give up, you seem tough, very smart, and open to suggestion which are all great for healing your body

purelytwins August 24, 2014 - 7:51 am

thank you for your support!

tess August 26, 2014 - 11:57 pm

hi,

i wanted to tell you about a chinese herb supplement invented
here in austin, texas by the leading chinese skin doctor, doctor ma.

the product is call Eczemed, by Harmony Herbal.

it is a gentle giant of about 8 chinese herbs that brings
a system back into balance from deficiency/toxicity.

it has really helped my skin ( along with lifestyle changes, a
as i can see you have also made)

please check it out and love love love yourself!

best,
tess

Dan Leone September 18, 2014 - 7:37 pm

I am noticing not many men on your site, so PLEASE do not be creeped out. I want you to know that this video put tears in my eyes. I, too, struggle with an autoimmune skin condition (called pyoderma gangrenosum…DO NOT LOOK ThAT UP WITHOUT ADVANCED WARNING!). It is PROFOUNDLY painful, PROFOUNDLY gross and PROFOUNDLY stigmatized. I know it is not the same as eczema and I do not want to pretend that I understand all that you are going through.

Your courage to show your scars and current condition, your ability to openly discuss what is working and what is not, and your overall positive attitude are truly inspiring to me. I have enjoyed watching you and your sister for a couple of years now. You two make me smile the when you finish each other’s sentences. I love watching the journey you are on.

Just simply know that I wish you strength. But given all the strength you give your subscribers, I am confident that you don’t need it.

Thank you for listening.

Dan Leone

newsletter September 18, 2014 - 7:57 pm

thank you Dan!!

Janelle September 23, 2014 - 2:38 pm

I just wanted to say that I admire your courage. I am going through something similar although my rashes are on my back mostly, but I have had eczema all over all my life. It is very frustrating not knowing what is wrong. And I too suspect that my issue is stress related. I have been on the AIP diet for 3 months with no relief. My eczema looks different from yours so I don’t think that I can offer any advice. But I have dry skin and coconut oil does not help, it actually makes it worse. Although sweating makes me ichy I think the dryness does too. I use extra virgin olive oil mixed with Vitamin E oil, 30,000ui (i think) and it has helped a lot with the dry skin.

I have also noticed that I flare about the same time every month and wonder if it could be a hormonal reaction. Do anyone have knowledge about this and possible treatments?

Right now I am on an emotional healing path, trying to find the root cause of my stress and anxiety and heathly ways of coping. (although I admittedly don’t feel stressed or that I have a problem in that area).

Janelle

purelytwins September 23, 2014 - 5:33 pm

coconut oil does not help my skin either, I am still trying to find that oil that does. ya I have been doing the AIP almost to the T with no success either, some improvement but still struggling bad over here. very interesting about the hormonal reaction, I have not done much research on that yet, sounds interesting though! I wish you all the best Janelle with your healing journey!! I hope you find the root cause as well. I am still on my long journey! Hopefully I get some answers soon!

Tim October 3, 2014 - 4:31 am

Hi Michelle,

I too have had it for as long as i can remember and like you i have tried everything. It seems like my body was trying to tell me that there’s something i’m not doing right but what??? 2 months ago i gave up chicken meat altogether as a trial and i’m proud to say that today there’s is not a single open wound on me. I took a bite of chicken last week and immediately 30 mins later i knew that the eczema was creeping back on. I have come to accept it even if it means no chicken meat for the rest of my life. The docs actually said it was unlikely that the chicken meat causes the flare ups but i guess i’m my own doctor now. I’m actually just using Vitamin E Oil to clear up the scars now. Hope this helps.

purelytwins October 3, 2014 - 10:40 am

Thanks Tim for sharing, I have omitted chicken about a month ago and beef and pork. The only meat I am having is turkey and bison, which I have reduced the amount. Thank you for sharing and glad you found relief!!

Yanitsa K. October 3, 2014 - 6:16 am

Hi there, i hope everything will go away and you will do better. Well, my mother had something similar on her underarms… She got cured with one simple flower called Calendula (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calendula)… its DIY, please contact me if you are inrerested to give you the instructions for preparation

Greetings from Bulgaria 🙂

danique January 8, 2015 - 1:01 pm

heeyy michelle,

maybe you can try eating raw (80/10/10), raw till 4 or the mucusless diet =)

i really think that would help because of the elimination of fat and mucus in your body that probably prevent everything from flowing right..

personally i also had troubles with my skin (acne and hairloss) and i also thought for years what the cause could be, and what my body was trying to tell me, but when i started to listen to my body a bit more (and a lot of experimenting) i noticed that it made clear that it was better for my body to eat just fruits, roots, vegetables and in particularly no oils and a liiitlee amount of fats like nuts and seeds. i hope this information can help you a bit.

i really hope you will get better soon =)

much love,
Danique

Jennifer Jacksis July 5, 2015 - 11:17 pm

I am so grateful to come across your website. I have a 12 year old that has suffered since she was 2. We healed her gut and her eczema was under control for years. She was on a whole foods diet, eliminating processed foods and those she was sensitive to. Over a year ago her eczema began to flare again. She had been eating processed snacks at school, and not adhering to her juicing and fruit/veggie diet. We don’t use harsh chemicals, and we have an allergen free environment. She has eliminated all processed foods, she now has been eating raw for months and we eliminated several foods to try and find the cultprit. She is a wreck, emotionally. I have been sleeping with her for over a year, so she doesn’t hurt herself at night. She has isolated herself from friends and cries on a daily basis. Even raw coconut oil or shae butter cause flare ups. She juices, takes enzymes, probiotics, you name it! WE are perplexed as to why she hasn’t healed yet. Could her healing crisis take this long?

purelytwins July 8, 2015 - 10:35 am

Sorry to hear this about your daughter. She could be allergic to coconut and shea butter. Check out my other posts here on eczema http://bit.ly/1baBc2j Everyone’s healing crisis is different. It sounds like a lot of it is stress related, which is a huge culprit for all eczema suffers. I know I still get little outbreaks. Doesn’t matter what type of stress – stress is stress. I know she is young but really try to keep her positive. Have her focus on things that make her feel good. Every morning and night have her say – My skin is beautiful. I have glowing skin. Try to keep her mind busy on other things besides the eczema. I know it’s hard, but that was key for me. The less attention I gave it the less it bothered me. Also have you tried epsom salt baths? They saved me.

panooq September 3, 2015 - 4:19 am

just some possible things that might help

*food grade diatomaceous earth
*red palm oil
*moringa oleifera
*hydrogen pyroxide

A light dusting of FGDE may clear it up. If you have any questions about clearing any kind of yeast and reestablishing a healthy yeast balance, email me. panooq at gmail

Lauren October 22, 2015 - 3:13 pm

My daughter has eczema (according to all her doctors) similar to yours mostly on her legs (she’s only 2.5 so it may go away as she gets older since it’s “mild”). We’ve had some luck using newer probiotic creams and sprays (I’ve used http://www.motherdirt.com/, Avene Xerecalm AD and Laroche Posay Lipikar AP+ with some success). Before using these crèmes, the steroids she was prescribed would help but not heal her eczema and if I stopped using them it would come back with a vengeance, now I barely use the steroids. The theory is explained here YMMV

purelytwins October 22, 2015 - 9:11 pm

Lauren thanks for sharing, sorry to hear that you little one has eczema, but yes hopefully it goes away as she gets older. I am not a fan of steroids either, I am so happy that you find cremes that help her skin!!! xo

Heather November 24, 2015 - 1:46 am

Ugh! I’m in the same boat, though mine aren’t red, but I grantee they may very well as I get older, I’m 31 and every year it seems my skin is just getting worse… right now I got really bad stingy on my ribs just under my bra, and the rest of my skin seems to be following… the only skin that I’ve yet to have any problem with is the skin on my backside, butt and back. Of course, maybe it didn’t help that I was out in the cold and sweated… I have to apply vaseline or creams to my face even in the summer time, except for the rest of my skin.

I wish there was a darn cure. I know of a guy who’s son suffered with the same problems and he bathes his son in actually bleach water, I think… I don’t really remember, I do not suggest anyone tries that.

I’m about ready to jump in the shower and use an anti-stress body wash as well as maybe try coconut milk soap bar.

Emiko December 4, 2015 - 1:59 am

Hi. I know this is way overdue comment, as this was written in 2014 and now 2015 is almost over!

My son, now almost 2 years old, was born with eczema on his face and over the year it spread all over his body. His eczema was numular eczema. it didn’t bother him much, but it did look bad. Our family doc said his eczema was categorized severe and he should be applied with steroid cream and I said, no way. this doc criticized me that i was a bad mother to let my son suffer. Well, I am a recovering eczema person and i know how steroid screws you up! Having said that, when my son was turning one and I didn’t know what could help him because nothing was helping him. And then we went to mexico ans stayed at all inclusive hotel for a week. My other son is autistic so once he was scared by the beach ( i don’t know what happened, but probably a big wave scared him), all we went to was to the indoor pool. There was not so much ” healthy” food there. My eczema son ate everything. he wasn’t eating gluten, eggs, dairy ( this causes him nasal congestion to this day) , you name it, with plenty fruit and veggies. he would immerse himself in clorined pool everyday with his brother. He didn’t get as much Sun as we wished because the weather was a bit chilly. And on Day 2, his eczema was alreay clearing up. By the time we left Mexico, his skin was smooth and soft like an actual baby skin. Coming back to Vancouver, canada, eczema came back. He still has eczema, but it is under control. He seems to react, and me too, to fish oil, pork, and dairy so we don’t eat or take them. I am learning more and more again and again to learn about his and my eczema still to this day. I am going to read more of your story. I just found your website yesterday so more to read! Oh by the way, for us paleo didn’t work. too much protein caused the itch. best of luck to you guys! Oh, one more thing! when i was studying to become a hypnotherapist, one of the students had severe eczema on her arms and hands all her life. I saw her eczema disappear literary as the course went and she had lots of hypno therapy done as part of the course. So, yes, mind is the biggest key to healing eczema!

purelytwins December 4, 2015 - 10:24 am

Oh wow thank you so much for sharing your story!! You are a great mom and eczema is something that changes all the time. Which sucks. But glad to hear you are seeing patterns in things that cause it. For me I need protein, when I go to low I notice patches coming back. Plus avocado, citrus, sugar and nuts are also triggers. HUGS to you and your son. When you see more of my updated post you will that I am healed…I still get random flares when I let my routine slide but overall things are good.

Diane June 8, 2016 - 8:10 pm

Thank you so much for sharing! I’m going through this right now and it just helps to see you fight through and be strong. My battle is the eczema keeps getting infected and that’s always the downer for me.

Karla June 12, 2017 - 7:55 am

I have struggled with eczema my entire life. It really flares up when I’m stressed. It’s time for law school finals and my knee was enflamed and swollen and my rash was very itchy. Foderma serum Immediately the itching stopped and my skin’s temperature returned to normal. In just 2 days the rash is smaller and the skin is returning to normal. I apply foderma whenever it starts to itch and immediately I feel better. At this rate my skin should be back to normal within a week after scratching so much I had sores. I wish I had known about this before!!!

Sara Cruz September 12, 2020 - 4:39 am

I am so sorry you are going through this, it certainly looks painful 🙁 I am sure you’ve probably tried just about everything under the sun but I just wanted to share what worked for my daughter. My daughter was 4 years old when she got her first patch and then some. She had fine skin until she went to kindergarten and then she broke out. On Christmas break her eczema went away but would then come back when she went back to school. We tried figuring out if it was the school’s soap, the lack of humidity, the recycled air in the school! But then she was diagnosed with eczema. They were never as sore as yours but it was a struggle for her as well. The doctor prescribed a steroid cream called Fucidin H for the raw skin for 2 weeks and then Betaderm for when it was no longer raw and it worked for her. After the Betaderm I applied Eucerin Eczema Relief with Ceramide 3 (NOT Eucerin Eczema Relief Flareup, it didn’t work for my daughter) for maintenance and so far so good. We try to apply it every night and if for some reason we do not, after a day or two she starts to get some spots. So then I dab them with Betaderm and use Eucerin everywhere else. She also started on a 10 billion probiotic blend. I know everyone is different but I just thought I’d share. My thoughts and prayers 🙂

purelytwins September 15, 2020 - 11:14 am

Thank you for sharing. I am all healed. I healed a few years ago. So glad your daughter found what works for you as eczema is tricky.

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