Eczema is characterized by itchy, inflamed skin. While your doctor will prescribe medications to ease those symptoms, it also helps to have some natural ways to complement that regimen. These natural remedies can also ensure that you don’t overuse the medications that you’ve been prescribed.
10 Ways To Soothe Eczema Naturally
1. Coconut oil
This popular moisturizer is known to keep your skin healthy by retaining moisture and encouraging collagen production. It may also have antibacterial properties – which help protect you from infections. You can apply coconut oil at any time.
2. Sunflower seed oil
Sunflower seed oil has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe itchy and inflamed skin. It may also improve the skin’s barrier so that you’re at a reduced risk for infections. Additionally, it works well for people who have sensitive skin. This oil is best applied after a bath when your skin is still damp.
3. Manuka honey
While many people will attest to the benefits of using honey on the skin, studies show that Manuka honey is the most effective. It’s great for easing itchiness, reducing redness, reducing swelling, and healing cracked skin. You can combine honey with olive oil and beeswax for an even better salve.
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4. Primrose oil
Unlike other natural remedies, evening primrose oil is taken by mouth instead of applied to the skin. While more studies need to be done, there is evidence to suggest that a little primrose oil can help to alleviate the symptoms of several inflammatory conditions, including eczema.
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5. Oatmeal
The best kind of oatmeal for treating eczema is the colloidal one. Colloidal oatmeal is finely ground and is available as a cream or powder. To use it, add the powder to lukewarm bathwater and soak in it for 10-15 minutes.
6. Witch hazel
Though witch hazel is an astringent, some people with eczema have been able to relieve itchiness when applying it to the affected area. If you’re experiencing cracked or weeping skin, witch hazel may dry these up as well.
7. Apple cider vinegar
Data on the effectiveness of apple cider vinegar for eczema treatment is sparse but it’s possible that it can help. Given its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, apple cider vinegar may help to decrease itchiness and swelling while protecting you from infections. A few tablespoons in a bath is all you need.
8. Petroleum jelly
Even with all the skincare products out there, petroleum jelly remains one of the most effective moisturizers on the market. It’s also safe for sensitive skin. You can apply it to the skin after a bath.
9. Cold compresses
Placing a cool cloth on the affected area can soothe itching and reduce inflammation. Once your skin feels a little better, you should apply a moisturizer or your prescribed medication.
10. Calendula cream
This is another herbal remedy that researchers need to study in depth. However, there is some evidence that using calendula cream moisturizes the skin and reduces inflammation.
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Why The Natural Methods Help
As with all types of medication, the topical creams and ointments that you use to treat your eczema can have side effects. Some of these issues can be immediate while others develop over time. Sometimes, they stay the same but there are a few side effects that get worse the longer you use the topical medications. A few of the side effects include dryness, redness, itching, stinging, thinning skin, discoloration, acne, and unusual hair growth. Additionally, thin skin is more prone to infections so you’re more likely to develop skin infections.
Using natural methods to ease your eczema symptoms can allow your skin to heal from these side effects. It also helps that some of the products you might use encourage your skin to replenish its moisture and protective layers.
When To See A Doctor
Everybody’s journey with eczema isn’t the same. It gets better for some while remaining the same for others. Sometimes, the condition gets worse for no apparent reason. If you’ve been using your medication in combination with natural home remedies but your symptoms haven’t improved, it’s best to talk to your doctor. It might be time to change the cream or ointment that you’ve been using.
Natural treatments are great for soothing your eczema while protecting your skin. If you’re not noticing a difference, however, you should talk to your doctor about whether or not your medical regimen is still effective.
