Eczema is a highly uncomfortable inflammatory skin condition affecting millions of people worldwide. The most commonly prescribed medications for the treatment of this condition include topical or oral corticosteroids, antibiotics, immune-modulators or antihistamines.
Since none of these potent medications are suitable for long term or repeated use as they are well known to cause a variety of serious side effects, to begin with it is always wiser and safer if you try using home remedies for eczema.
The following prevention techniques and management approaches will help you keep your symptoms under control without the need of having to use any prescription medications:
1 – Use Hypoallergenic Cosmetic Products
When you suffer from eczema that appears anywhere on your body, none of the cosmetic and personal hygiene products you use should contain any petro-chemicals, propylene glycol, alcohol, lanolin, glycerin, artificial dyes, parabens or fragrance, since these irritants are known to aggravate your condition. Mild, soothing and PH neutral skin care products on the other hand, which have been especially developed for sensitive skin or eczema prone skin can effectively keep your outbreaks in check. Opt for organic, natural skin care products if possible and moisturize the affected area of your skin several times a day.
2 – Use Cold Compresses
An itchy eczema rash can be extremely irritating for a sufferer. However, you need to refrain from scratching the affected area of the skin. In order to relieve any itchiness, apply a cold compress to the rash for 5 minutes, which should alleviate this symptom.
A cold compress should be prepared by dipping a clean cotton wash cloth into a bowl of ice cold water, squeezing the excess water out and applying it to the affected region of the skin. For added benefit you can add a couple of drops of Roman chamomile, benzoin or lavender essential oils to the bowl before dipping your cloth, since these essential oils are well known for their skin soothing benefits.
3 – Apply Jojoba Oil to Your Skin
Jojoba oil is a gentle natural moisturizer, excellent for the treatment of dry, flaky and scaly skin conditions, which are the main characteristics of moderate to severe eczema. Jojoba oil is not an actual oil, but a waxy natural substance and its chemical composition is similar to sebum. When used sparingly, several times a day, it can relieve your upsetting symptoms as well as it will nourish your skin, restoring its healthy, natural elasticity. Even when your eczema symptoms are under control you should not stop using this excellent natural moisturizer.
4 – Use Oatmeal Baths
Taking regular oatmeal baths can effectively reduce all the discomforts associated with eczema. To prepare an oatmeal bath, any type of unflavored and uncooked oatmeal can be used. However, to obtain the most benefit, it is recommended to use colloidal oatmeal as it will not sink to the bottom of the bath rapidly, creating a milky dispersion. While running the water, add a cup of colloidal oats to your bath and relax in it for 10 to 15 minutes, washing your body with a mild, hypoallergenic body wash. If you have eczema on your hands or face, keep the oats in your bathroom and use them every time you need to wash your hands or face, following with a natural, chemicals free moisturizer.
5 – Consider Taking a Good Dandelion Supplement
Dandelion root extract contains vitamins and minerals which will enhance the function of many body organs, including the skin. Dandelion root extract, which is available in supplement, tincture or tea forms is rich in vitamin A, C, E,K as well as it contains generous amount s of zinc, which are all vitally important nutrients for skin health. It is recommended to take 0.5g of dandelion extract in supplement form twice daily following your meals. Alternatively, you can drink a cup of dandelion tea or infusion twice every day.
About the author: This article was provided by HolisticHubs.com.
Photo credit: Niels Olson