If you have eczema, you know how difficult it is to find relief from red, itchy skin. You’ve most likely tried a variety of products. Unfortunately, some products can make your skin feel even drier and more irritated.
Don’t give up on hope just yet! In addition to medications, you can try numerous home remedies to alleviate your symptoms. The eight natural remedies listed below may help replenish moisture and protect your skin’s natural barrier.
If you’re taking prescription medications for your eczema, consult your doctor before attempting new home remedies.
Evening primrose oil
Evening primrose oil is derived from the evening primrose plant. It is applied topically to soothe irritated skin.
It is used to treat systemic inflammatory conditions like eczema when taken orally. Evening primrose oil contains omega-6 fatty acids and gamma-linolenic acid, which may help to prevent inflammation in the body.
Use wet wraps
Use wet wraps to hydrate and calm the skin during a severe flare. Wrap warm water-soaked clothing or gauze around the affected area. Cover it with a dry layer of clothing and loose clothing. This can be left on for several hours or overnight.
Adding apple cider vinegar to your skin’s pH may help. 1 cup warm water and one tablespoon of vinegar is a good starting point. Consult your doctor first, as it may cause some people to react.
Bath with bleach
Adding bleach to your bath water may be beneficial. Bleach can kill bacteria that cause eczema and skin infections. Add 1/2 cup regular-strength (6%) bleach to a full bath. 1 teaspoon bleach per gallon of water is recommended for a baby bath. Before attempting this method, consult with your doctor first.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is used for various purposes, including tooth cleaning and hair conditioning. Is it suitable as a moisturizer for eczema-prone skin? It’s conceivable.
There is no evidence that coconut oil is superior to other gentle moisturizers. However, it may have antibacterial properties that can be beneficial. If you try it, use raw coconut oil with no added ingredients.
Petroleum jelly
This medicine cabinet staple isn’t glamorous but can be an excellent moisturizer. It is non-stinging, moisturizes well, and rarely causes allergies. Stick with a thin coat applied to damp skin to avoid getting grease on your clothes.
Witch hazel
Witch hazel is a drying agent derived from the bark and leaves of the witch hazel shrub. It has been used for centuries as a topical treatment for skin inflammation. Despite this, research on witch hazel for eczema is limited.
Even so, the remedy is frequently used to soothe inflamed skin, dry up oozing areas, and relieve itching.
Acupuncture and acupressure
Acupuncture alters energy flow by inserting fine needles into specific points on the body. Although more research is needed, some findings suggest that acupuncture may relieve itching.
Acupressure is similar to acupuncture because it applies pressure with the fingers and hands rather than needles. Acupressure has been shown to relieve itchy skin caused by eczema.
Sunflower seed oil
Sunflower oil is produced by pressing sunflower seeds. It protects the skin’s outer layer, which aids in keeping moisture in and bacteria out. Sunflower oil hydrates the skin and may help with itching and inflammation.
Sunflower oil can be applied directly to the skin, undiluted, preferably after bathing while the skin is still damp.
Colloidal oatmeal
Colloidal oatmeal can be found in many bath soaks and body lotions. It can help reduce inflammation, which is common in eczema. It is soothing to the skin and extremely beneficial to some people.
Honey
Honey is a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent used for centuries to heal wounds. It can aid in wound healing and immune system function, allowing the body to fight infections. Furthermore, honey has antibacterial properties and may be useful in treating various skin ailments such as burns and wounds.
When applied directly to eczema-affected skin, honey may help prevent infections while moisturizing and speeding healing.
Dab a little honey on the affected area to get the most out of it. Manuka honey products for wound care and skin application are available in drug stores and online.
Tea tree essential oil
The leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree are used to make tea tree oil. This oil is frequently used to treat skin conditions such as eczema. Its oil is anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and wound healing. The oil may relieve skin dryness and itching while also preventing infections.
However, essential oils should always be diluted before applying to the skin. Before applying the solution, combine tea tree oil with carrier oil, such as almond or olive oil. Some products contain diluted tea tree oil.
Dietary modifications
Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that causes inflamed, red, and sore skin.
Because certain foods can cause or reduce inflammation, so making key dietary changes may help reduce eczema flares.
Eating more anti-inflammatory foods, such as fish and leafy greens, may be beneficial. You can also try the following;
- Lentils and beans
- A variety of fruits and vegetables
- Cinnamon and turmeric
Dairy, eggs, soy, and wheat are all inflammatory foods. To help identify which foods may be problematic, try eliminating some of these from your diet and keeping a food diary.
