Masterclass on Eczema: The Skin-Gut Connection with Dr. Barbara Paldus
In this special Skin Anarchy Masterclass episode, host Ekta is joined once again by Dr. Barbara Paldus, the founder of Codex Labs, for an in-depth discussion on eczema. Dr. Paldus shares groundbreaking insights into the latest research on the skin-gut-brain microbiome axis, as well as an exciting new inside-out approach to eczema treatment.
The Inside-Out Approach to Eczema
Dr. Paldus recently presented a TED Talk on the connection between the skin, gut, and brain microbiomes, highlighting how gut health, inflammation, and hormone balance all play a crucial role in skin conditions like eczema. The latest research shows that treating eczema from the inside out — by supporting the gut and skin microbiomes in addition to using functional skincare — can yield three times the benefits of using skincare alone.
Understanding Eczema: What You Need to Know
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes redness, itching, dryness, and rashes. It typically appears in skin creases, such as elbow folds and behind the knees. More than 30 million
Americans and over 200 million people worldwide suffer from eczema, making it one of the most common dermatological conditions.
Key facts about eczema:
- 60% of cases develop by age one
- Another 30% of cases develop by age five
- Eczema is not contagious but can significantly impact quality of life
- Children with eczema have a 50% higher risk for ADHD due to systemic inflammation (sometimes called leaky brain)
What Causes Eczema? The Two Competing Theories
The root cause of eczema remains unclear, but there are two main scientific theories:
- Inside-Out Hypothesis: Systemic inflammation from a leaky gut weakens the skin barrier, allowing allergens to penetrate the skin and trigger eczema.
- Outside-In Hypothesis: A weakened skin barrier fails to protect against environmental allergens, which then leads to systemic inflammation and allergic reactions.
Scientists are still debating whether eczema starts in the gut or the skin, but what’s clear is that a compromised skin barrier is a major factor in itching, inflammation, and infection.
The Genetic Component of Eczema
Eczema has a strong genetic link, with a mutation in the filaggrin gene (FLG) being one of the key culprits. Filaggrin is essential for skin hydration and barrier integrity, and people with eczema often have lower levels of it, leading to excessive water loss, dry skin, and increased allergen penetration.
Other genes linked to eczema include:
- AQP3 (regulates hydration and skin elasticity)
- IL-4 and IL-13 (control allergic inflammation)
- KIF3A (plays a role in immune response and skin cell function)
The Role of Staphylococcus Aureus in Eczema Flares
One of the most important discoveries in recent eczema research is the role of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), a bacterium that thrives on eczema-prone skin. Studies have shown that 80% of eczema patients are colonized by S. aureus, compared to only 10% of healthy individuals.
S. aureus produces toxins that trigger itching and inflammation, making eczema symptoms worse. In severe cases, it can cause infections that require antibiotic treatment.
How to Manage Eczema Holistically
Dr. Paldus emphasizes that managing eczema effectively requires a holistic approach that includes:
- Topical treatments: Moisturizers with ceramides, lipids, and natural oils (e.g., sunflower seed oil) to strengthen the skin barrier
- Microbiome-friendly skincare: Gentle, fragrance-free products that nourish rather than strip the skin
- Diet and gut health: Prebiotics, probiotics, and anti-inflammatory diets to support the gut microbiome
- Environmental adjustments: Avoiding harsh soaps, wearing breathable cotton clothing, and using hypoallergenic detergents
- Stress management: Meditation, yoga, and relaxation techniques to reduce flare-ups triggered by stress
Codex Labs’ Game-Changing Eczema Solutions
Dr. Paldus reveals Codex Labs’ latest inside-out eczema solutions, including:
- Bia Unscented Soap — A clinically tested, microbiome-certified soap that protects the skin barrier without stripping moisture.
- Bia Eczema Relief Lotion — Featuring Colloidal Oatmeal, Calendula, and Meadowfoam Seed Oil, this new formula hydrates, soothes itch, and restores the skin barrier.
- ANTÜ Skin Barrier Support Supplement — A breakthrough nutritional supplement designed to repair and strengthen the skin barrier from within.
Clinical Trial Results: A Major Breakthrough in Eczema Treatment
Codex Labs conducted an eight-week clinical trial on their new eczema lotion and found incredible results:
- 95% reduction in eczema severity (SCORAD score)
- 93% decrease in itching
- 78% improvement in skin hydration
- 40% reduction in skin barrier leakage
- 65% improvement in roughness and exfoliation
The Future of Eczema Treatment: Combining Science & Holistic Health
Dr. Paldus believes the future of eczema treatment lies in combining scientific innovation with holistic health. By addressing both the skin and gut microbiomes, Codex Labs’ new approach offers more effective, long-term relief than traditional treatments alone.
For anyone struggling with eczema, the key takeaway is that you can manage and reduce symptoms by taking care of your skin both inside and out.