When red, itchy, flaky patches of skin suddenly appear, causing discomfort and occasionally even pain, eczema can feel like an unwanted guest that keeps returning. Although there is no known cure for the most prevalent type, atopic dermatitis, many people find relief with simple lifestyle adjustments and natural home remedies.
Dermatologists concur that household tips and lifestyle changes can greatly help to soothe your skin, even though medical treatments may be beneficial for more severe cases. These 11 treatments are worth trying if you’re experiencing flare-ups of your eczema.
1. Moisturize With Coconut Oil
Not only can coconut oil be used in the kitchen, but it can also save your skin. Since dry skin is one of the main causes of eczema, its natural fats aid in retaining moisture. According to studies, virgin coconut oil may help maintain your skin’s natural barrier, lessen inflammation, and control dangerous bacteria.
2. Keep a Humidifier by Your Bed
Dry air can exacerbate eczema, particularly in the winter months. In order to keep your skin hydrated throughout the night, a cool-mist humidifier replenishes the air with moisture. Consider it your skin’s water drink while you sleep.
3. Take Oatmeal Baths
Soaking in a lukewarm bath with colloidal oatmeal can soothe irritated skin if the itching becomes too much. Redness and itching are reduced by oatmeal’s inherent anti-inflammatory qualities. Just keep in mind that heat can further dry out your skin, so make sure the water is warm rather than hot.
4. Use a Thick, Fragrance-Free Moisturizer
After taking a shower, pat your skin dry (do not rub!) and use a thick moisturizer right away. Pick one that says “fragrance-free” and “for sensitive skin.” Because they better retain moisture, thick creams or ointments perform better than lotions.
5. Try Meditation or Relaxation Techniques
One of the cunning triggers that can cause an outbreak of eczema is stress. Your skin might appreciate you taking the time to meditate, practice deep breathing, or even just listen to soothing music. Numerous applications are available to facilitate the initiation of guided relaxation.
6. Exercise Smartly
Being physically active can improve your general health and reduce stress, which may help with eczema. The catch is that perspiration can cause skin irritation. Choosing enjoyable workouts, avoiding overheating, and always washing off perspiration with mild, unscented soap are the keys.
7. Eat an Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Although there is no “eczema diet,” many people find that eating more foods that reduce inflammation, such as nuts, olive oil, fatty fish, and leafy greens, helps to calm flare-ups. One excellent example is the Mediterranean diet. Cutting back on processed foods and sugar may also help your body feel less irritated.
8. Shower the Right Way
Although taking a hot shower can be soothing, it depletes your skin of its natural oils. Instead, use mild cleansers free of harsh chemicals and fragrances, and limit your showers to brief, lukewarm ones. You will continue to have calmer, less irritated skin.
9. Switch to Gentle Laundry Detergent
Everything that comes into contact with your skin is important, including your clothing. Ordinary detergents may leave behind residues that aggravate skin prone to eczema. To avoid irritating sensitive skin, look for products that are marked “free and clear” of fragrances and dyes.
10. Dress in Breathable Fabrics
Despite their coziness, wool sweaters are harsh on eczema. Cotton and bamboo are softer materials that let your skin breathe. Another way to lessen friction, which can exacerbate itching, is to wear looser clothing.
11. Calm the Itch With Soothing Creams
Scratching only exacerbates eczema, even though it may feel good at the time. Choose over-the-counter creams that contain hydrocortisone or ingredients that relieve itching, such as calamine, camphor, or menthol. These can reduce itching momentarily without making your skin more irritated.
When to Get Medical Help
It might be time to see a dermatologist if using natural remedies isn’t helping your symptoms. To soothe your immune system and shield your skin, they can suggest more potent creams or prescription drugs.
Although eczema can be annoying, there are ways to combat it. Little daily changes, like changing your shower schedule or moisturizing with coconut oil, can have a significant impact. Comfort can truly begin at home, so try out these natural solutions and see which ones help you the most.
