Five Ways to Relieve Symptoms of Eczema Naturally

Eczema is an inflammatory, chronic and non-contagious skin condition usually characterised by a dry, itchy and tight skin. Eczema can vary in severity while its symptoms might come and go for months, years or throughout life, making it essential to try various treatments to manage your eczema.

Many people with eczema use products that go beyond the medications prescribed by their doctor as a complementary treatment for this skin condition. Here are five tips that are believed to help soothe eczema symptoms or prevent future flare-ups. However, before considering any type of treatment, it is crucial to discuss it with your dermatologist.

Identify Food Allergies

Food allergies are a common trigger of eczema, particularly if the onset or worsening of the symptoms is correlated with food exposure. Perhaps the great place to start is with an elimination diet for up to 4-6 weeks. This is the gold standard for food sensitivity testing, which includes eliminating common food allergens, such as dairy, gluten, eggs, peanuts, corn, soy and sugar. 

It's important to monitor for any changes in symptoms and reintroduce foods one at a time to see first signs of eczema or any changes in its symptoms. Also, it is highly recommended that you follow the elimination diet under the guidance of a healthcare practitioner and do it in phases.

Moisturise Regularly

Moisturising regularly with a thick ointment or cream can help you achieve two important goals. First, it helps to relieve (or even prevent) dryness, which usually contributes to itching. Second, a dense moisturiser acts as a barrier to address potential irritants that might cause you discomfort or increase your risk of infection.

Make sure to apply a heavy-duty ointment, cream or petroleum jelly at least twice a day to lock in moisture and create a strong barrier for your skin. Use the moisturiser within a few minutes after bathing and reapply as often as needed. For serious hand and foot rejuvenation, put it on your skin before bed and wear cotton socks or gloves. 

Try To Avoid Heat

A hot shower or bath might seem relaxing, but for individuals with eczema, this can worsen the symptoms. Too hot water can irritate the skin, so instead of raising the temperature, make sure to keep the faucet set to warm or cool.

What's more, refrain from sitting near a furnace or next to a fireplace as hot and dry air dehydrates the skin and increases the itching of eczema. During the dry winter months, consider using a humidifier and avoiding strong heat sources like heaters and fireplaces.

Apply Natural Remedies To The Skin

Applying natural remedies like aloe vera, honey, sunflower oil and coconut oil and essentials oils like tea tree oil are believed to be helpful to some people with eczema. They can help to reduce inflammation, prevent bacterias and protect, moisturise and heal damaged skin.

A good idea to buy CBD oil to help diminish inflammation, dryness and itching, regulate sebum and relieve eczema flare-ups. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural and generally safe compound that is thought to interact with receptors of the body's endocannabinoid system to promote homeostasis. It also possesses potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, analgesic and moisturising qualities, which can help to manage eczema symptoms.

Eliminate Possible Skin Irritants

There are many factors in your environment that can be a reason for eczema flares. These include possible outdoor allergens (such as grasses), indoor allergens like house dust mites, chemicals in the water and harsh chemicals such as dyes and odours in detergents. 

Therefore, it is important to reduce your exposure to eczema triggers. You might want to invest in a water filter for your water, use dust mite protectors on bedding and pillows, wash with gentle detergents that are free from dye and fragrance-free and turn on an air conditioner, especially in the summer when the pollen count is high.