QUESTION: About two weeks a month I have a lot of problems with a rash (or eczema?) in my armpits, on my ribcage and on my lower legs. Usually before and during my period. They are red bumps that sometimes itch violently. The removal of the bumps often takes a long time:my skin then remains bright red for another week. Are there creams that counteract the itching and that can speed up the removal of the redness?
ANSWER: “Red bumps that itch violently can indicate urticaria (hives, hives). However, these bumps always disappear within 48 hours. Often the cause remains unclear , but relationships can be made with foodstuffs, contact allergens, medicines and temperature changes, among other things.
Also eczema may manifest itself in the form of red bumps. Eczema is associated with dry, itchy and very sensitive skin. Often there is atopic eczema , which is caused by a reaction to allergens such as dust mites or pollen.
But it can also contact dermatitis e.g. due to a allergic reaction on body lotion or deodorant. Since it occurs with you during every cycle, it could be related to the fluctuating hormone levels in your body. The hormonal changes can cause your body to be more sensitive to substances that your skin would not otherwise react to.
Against the itching I recommend a soothing and soothing product † Also make sure that you use soap-free products for physical hygiene.
With extremely dry skin, the hydrolipid layer (skin barrier) disrupted and very sensitive to external aggressors. There are special shower gels for this in pharmacies that descale the water. A dermatologist will be able to give you a more focused and specific diagnosis.”
Yvonne Richardson, training manager La Roche-Posay Netherlands
