Atopic dermatitis, better known as ‘eczema’ is something that 31.6 million people in the United States deal with. As an inflammatory skin disease, eczema can cause outbreaks of rashes, itchy, flakey skin, and just all around uncomfortable and painful spots on your skin. It isn’t contagious, and can get worse if you scratch the area that is flaring up. While not curable, it is manageable and treatable. Remember, if you have doubts, consult with a healthcare professional before trying any of these methods!
Health Fitness Revolution has curated a list of 10 easy, home, natural remedies to help eczema outbreaks, check them out:
Aloe Vera Gel
Research done in 2017 showed the benefits of aloe vera on the human body- it has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, it helps boost the immune system, and helps heal wounds- all great to heal irritated, cracked eczema skin. Just apply the gel to clean affected skin and let it work its magic!
Colloidal Oatmeal
Finely ground oats were found to help calm and soften the inflamed skin in a study done in 2020. It can be found as a powder or cream. If used as a powder, just add the powder to a warm bath and soak in it for 10-15 minutes. Pat dry to not irritate the skin and add an oil on top to lock moisture in.
Bleach Bath
Bleach is a good way to kill bacteria, and a great way to kill bacteria that can cause an eczema flare-up, as found by a study done in 2018. Adding ½ a cup of 6% bleach to a full bath of water and soaking in it is the best way to use it!
Evening Primrose Oil
Coming straight from the Evening Primrose plant, the extract helps soothe irritated skin. Containing omega-6 fatty acids and gamma-linoleic acid, a study found that Evening Primrose Oil can be taken by the mouth to help calm outbreaks.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Studies have shown that apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a good way to fight bacteria. In fact, the National Eczema Association deemed it as a good remedy. You can use ACV in a bath with 2 cups and soaking in it or as a wet wrap of 1 cup water and 1 tbsp of ACV and letting it sit on an area overnight. Always do a patch test before using!
Coconut Oil
Extracted from a coconut, it’s a great natural moisturizer. The National Eczema Association recommends coconut oil as a remedy due to its antibacterial properties to help prevent infection. Just use a natural virgin coconut oil and apply to the affected area!
Honey
Honey is an amazing source of natural antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Knowing its natural properties, we’ve seen a study that shows its effectiveness. Just apply to the affected area and let the work start.
Tea Tree Oil
Derived from the Melaleuca alternifolia tree, tea tree oil is anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and heals wounds as seen in a study. Apply to the dry and itchy areas of the skin and massage into the skin to help calm the skin and prevent infection.
Sunflower Oil
Extracted straight from sunflowers, research found that sunflower oil is a great protective skin barrier that hydrates- allowing the affected area to calm. Apply virgin oil to the skin to allow for absorption.
Petroleum Jelly
Vaseline is a good source of moisture for the skin, so it is very effective in treating eczema. A study done in 2015 showed that not only does it moisturize the area, but it also protects the skin barrier that can be damaged! Apply vaseline to damp, irritated skin to get moisture in!
