Eczema is a skin condition where patches of skin become inflamed, itchy, red, cracked, and rough. There are several types of eczema: atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, nummular eczema, seborrheic dermatitis and stasis dermatitis.
It develops in early childhood and is more common in people who have a family history of the condition. In some forms of eczema, blisters develop. Eczema is usually accompanied by uncontrollable itching that worsens when you scratch it.
Some creams and medications can irritate your sensitive skin. Below are 5 effective natural treatments you can use to treat eczema:
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a natural moisturiser and may even have some antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Many people with eczema find that it soothes the skin and relieves symptoms such as dryness and itchiness.
Honey
Humans have been using honey for various purposes for centuries which includes its healing potential. Honey moisturises the skin while preventing infections and speeding up healing. It is a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera gel is a natural antibacterial moisturizer. It also has wound-healing properties that aim to repair broken skin and promote healing.
Colloidal Oat Bath
According to a 2012 study, colloidal oatmeal can protect skin and soothe the itching and irritation from eczema. An oatmeal bath includes oatmeal and warm water, but the oatmeal used is ground into a fine powder called colloidal oatmeal. It’s suspended in water and won’t sink to the bottom.
Bath
Of course! You might say.
The skin needs extra moisture because the outer layer is not functioning as it should.
It is recommended that you bathe or shower at least once a day. And use lukewarm water, eczema might get worse if the water is too hot. Don’t spend too much time in the showers. Limit bathing to 10–15 minutes. Avoid scrubbing the skin. Use gentle cleansers instead of soaps.
Source: Guardian Newspaper
