Have you ever experienced a relentless, itchy rash that leaves you uncomfortable and frustrated? If so, then you are not alone. 1 out of 10 people also suffer from eczema, a condition that is often seen as red, naturally inflamed patches on the skin that become severely itchy and can even lead to infections if scratched. This constant battle against this condition feels like a never-ending cycle of discomfort and irritation for many.
Even though modern medicine provides many treatments such as eczema treatment creams, sometimes the best relief comes from nature. People are learning that natural remedies can soothe the skin and provide the relief they seek. So here we are sharing some of the natural ways to heal eczema and restore your skin health with practices and remedies that can be easily found in your homes.
Let’s begin!
How to Stop Eczema Itching Immediately
If you have experienced the eczema flare, you might have an idea of how annoying the itch can be. All that is needed is a quick relief. So consider these methods to soothe the skin immediately.
1. Apply Cold Compress
First and foremost, try applying a cool compress or a cold pack to the affected area. It can do wonders in stopping eczema itching immediately, making it one of the most effective eczema itching remedies. Just remember to leave it for 5-10 minutes on the area for the best results.
2. Take a Bath
When you are in search of natural ways to heal eczema, nothing can beat the goodness of baths. You can try taking a bleach, sea salt, or a colloidal oatmeal bath to help with the relief you need. Just remember to keep the water lukewarm so it doesn’t irritate your skin.
- Bleach Baths: Diluted bleach baths can be very effective in reducing the bacteria on the skin and helping with eczema flare-ups. In fact, some research even claimed that these baths reduced the need for topical medications. So, to try it at home, there is a special recommendation by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) to add half a cup of regular strength (6%) bleach in a whole tub of water. For the best result, soak for not more than 10-15 minutes and apply fragrance-free moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated and healthy.
- Colloidal Oatmeal: On the other side, oatmeal baths are another remedy that many find incredibly calming. This is because oats contain compounds that reduce itch and inflammation. To prepare the oatmeal bath, use freshly ground oats and soak them in water for about 15 minutes until they swell. Then, use this thick, cream-like material for bathing. After that, avoid rubbing your skin harshly with a towel, and only pat it dry and apply moisturizer.
3. Wet Wraps
Wet wraps are a relatively new method of treating eczema. It has also been studied and found to be very effective in reducing eczema flare-ups and repairing the skin barrier.
To perform a basic wet wrap, make sure the skin is damp, then apply a moisturizer over it. Next, cover the surface with a layer of moistened fabric or gauze. Then, cover it with another dry layer of gauze. This method has some major advantages over the other methods. First, when you cover the area, there is less chance that you will scratch it. Secondly, it keeps your moisturizer from rubbing off your clothes or sheets.
How to Heal Eczema Naturally with Topical Methods
Apart from bathing and cold compresses, there are some topical methods that you can use to get effective eczema rash relief.
1. Petroleum Jelly
Petroleum jelly, often branded by the name Vaseline, is one of the go-to recommendations doctors make for treating eczema. Because of its occlusive properties, it forms a barrier on the skin that stops water from evaporating. Along with it, petroleum jelly also has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, skin-regenerating, and healing properties, making it a great choice for controlling eczema symptoms.
Another great thing about petroleum jelly is that it doesn’t have any scents or allergens in it, so it’s safe for sensitive skin in both adults and kids. Research backs up its effectiveness, showing that regular use can greatly enhance the skin’s protective function and lower eczema flare-ups.
The best way to use Vaseline for eczema is to use it on your skin after showering when the skin is moist and it is easy to rub it in.
2. Aloe Vera
Who isn’t aware of the soothing properties of aloe vera? The gel found inside its leaves has been shown to moisturize the skin, reduce inflammation, and promote healing, making it a remedy to heal eczema naturally.
You can make your own aloe vera gel and cure eczema fast at home by just splitting the fresh aloe vera leaf and scooping out the gel from it. Apply this gel to the affected area several times a day. If you choose the store-bought options, select from the unprocessed versions that are free from fragrance and alcohol.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
Another kitchen ingredient that can be used to cure eczema fast at home is apple cider vinegar (ACV). It has been approved to regulate skin pH levels, easing inflammation caused by eczema.
To use it for eczema, dilute it with water in a ratio of 1:1 (one part vinegar to one part water). You can apply the mixture directly to the affected area with a cotton ball, make a wet wrap, as we have mentioned above, or add it to a warm bath to soothe larger areas of skin.
4. Coconut Oil
Next on our list is coconut oil, which is not only great for cooking but also works really well for soothing dry and inflamed skin. Virgin coconut oil especially has shown promising results in reducing eczema symptoms, with some studies seeing a 47% improvement.
Using coconut oil is very easy; just apply it on the skin like your regular moisturizer twice daily to see the symptoms improve. However, if you have an allergy to coconuts, then it is better not to apply it on the skin at all or do a patch test beforehand.
5. Sunflower Oil
Just like coconut oil, sunflower oil has also been studied to be effective in treating eczema symptoms. It helps to boost skin barrier function, prompting it to retain moisture. It also has its own anti-inflammatory properties. To reap the benefits of sunflower oil, simply apply it twice daily to the affected areas or your entire body.
6. Honey
Another ingredient from the kitchen that can be used as one of the natural ways to heal eczema is honey. It is famous not only for being a natural sweetener but also for its antimicrobial properties that help soothe the itchy rash very easily.
The best in this regard is manuka honey, which has been shown to improve eczema symptoms within 7 days. This honey is specially sterilized in the labs to remove any pollens for its use in topical treatment for itch wounds and burns.
All you have to do is apply manuka honey after cleaning and drying the skin, then spread a thin layer over the rash, and then wrap it in a bandage. Let it be covered for a few hours, remove the bandage, and clean the area.
Even though all of these ingredients are safe to use on the skin, it is always a good idea to play it safe. Just do a patch test before trying anything new on the skin. It will help you avoid any unpleasant reactions and enjoy the relaxing effects without worrying.
Natural Ways to Heal Eczema With Diet & Food
Now that we have learned some of the best natural remedies to deal with eczema, it is equally important to follow a consistent care routine to avoid future eczema flare-ups.
Here are some tried and tested methods on how to cure eczema permanently while keeping your skin smooth and calm.
1. Take Probiotics
Probiotics are the nutrients made up of organisms like bacteria and yeast. These foods can help with balancing the gut microbiome that is linked to eczema flares as symptoms. Research has shown that consuming probiotic-based foods can help with eczema, promoting healthier skin from the inside out.
While there are many probiotic supplements available on the market, we suggest getting these benefits from natural foods instead. Foods like sauerkraut, yogurt, and kimchi are examples. Try adding these foods into your daily meals no matter what meal of the day it is—a scoop of yogurt for breakfast, a side of kimchi for lunch, or a platter of sauerkraut for supper.
2. Vitamin D
Research has shown that people who have lower vitamin D levels in their bodies tend to have more chances of developing eczema. To help fight this, you can consider adding a vitamin D supplement to your diet. Vitamin D has been shown to help people with eczema by up to 67%.
This vital vitamin improves the skin’s defenses, lessens the intensity of eczema flare-ups, and strengthens the body’s reaction to inflammatory diseases.
Summing it Up
So there you have it! We have recommended you the best eczema treatment options available that you can try from the comfort of your home. From soothing baths and topical treatments to dietary adjustments and probiotics, all of these methods can surely make a difference in your skin health and manage eczema.
So don’t let that itch take control of your life. Try any of these natural ways to heal eczema according to what you feel will work for you. Still, you have to remember that consistency is the key. Just make these methods a part of your daily routine, and you may find the relief you were searching for!
And if you have tried any of these tips, do share your experience in the comments down below.
While you look into these natural remedies for eczema, why not take a moment to learn about the thoughtful wellness gifts that can help your health journey? Our article on Wellness Gifts has a lot of great ideas for gifts that will not only make someone feel better but also show them you care.
FAQs
How do I naturally cure my eczema?
Many people have found that using a regular skincare routine and adding natural remedies like coconut oil and meditation have helped reduce eczema flares.
What is the fastest way to heal eczema?
Eczema does not have a complete cure as yet, but the symptoms are very easily managed by natural remedies, such as moisturizing the body, using soothing baths, applying aloe vera, and avoiding triggers.
What is your body lacking if you have eczema?
Though not necessary, the body can be lacking in some fatty acids, vitamin D, or hydration deficiencies that can damage the skin barrier and trigger eczema.
Which oil is best for eczema?
Coconut oil is an excellent choice for eczema due to its moisturizing properties and ability to help reduce inflammation. Some research also suggests sunflower oil.
Does Vaseline help eczema?
Yes, petroleum jelly (Vaseline) is very good for eczema because it keeps moisture in the skin and forms a shield to protect it. This helps to soothe and heal the skin.
References
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