From the Guidelines
Natural remedies for eczema include avoiding provoking factors such as soaps and detergents, and using a dispersible cream as a soap substitute to cleanse the skin, as recommended by the British Association of Dermatologists and the Research Unit of the Royal College of Physicians of London 1. To manage eczema, it is essential to avoid irritants and maintain skin moisture.
- Avoiding extremes of temperature and keeping nails short can help prevent skin irritation.
- Wearing cotton clothing instead of irritant clothing like woollens is recommended to reduce discomfort.
- Using emollients liberally, as prescribed, can help maintain skin moisture and reduce inflammation 1. Some natural remedies that may help soothe eczema symptoms include:
- Applying coconut oil, sunflower seed oil, or colloidal oatmeal directly to affected skin areas 2-3 times daily to reduce inflammation and moisturize.
- Taking lukewarm baths with a cup of colloidal oatmeal or a half-cup of baking soda for 10-15 minutes to soothe irritated skin. However, it is crucial to note that severe cases of eczema may still require medical treatment, and natural remedies should be used in conjunction with, not in place of, medical advice. Dietary changes, such as increasing omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics, and stress reduction techniques like meditation, may also help prevent flare-ups, but individual results may vary, and it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes.
From the Research
Natural Remedies for Eczema
- There are several natural remedies that can help alleviate the symptoms of eczema, including:
- Botanical anti-inflammatory agents, such as allantoin and bisabolol, which have been shown to reduce irritation, erythema, and itching in patients with mild-to-moderate eczema 2
- Emollients and moisturizers, such as dimethicone, shea butter oil, glycerin, and ceramides, which can help repair the skin barrier and reduce dryness and inflammation 2, 3
- Topical corticosteroids, which can be used to reduce inflammation and itching, although their use should be limited to severe cases and under the guidance of a healthcare professional 4, 5
Key Ingredients in Natural Remedies
- Some key ingredients that have been shown to be effective in natural remedies for eczema include:
- Allantoin, which has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties 2
- Bisabolol, which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties 2
- Dimethicone, which can help repair the skin barrier and reduce dryness 2
- Shea butter oil, which can help moisturize and soothe the skin 2
- Glycerin, which can help retain moisture in the skin 2
- Ceramides, which can help repair the skin barrier and reduce inflammation 2, 3
Importance of Moisturizer Use
- Moisturizers are an essential part of eczema management, and can help reduce the frequency and severity of flares 3, 6
- Parents and patients with eczema prefer moisturizers that are non-fragrant, non-herbal, and white or transparent, and that need only be used two to three times per day 6
- Compliance with moisturizer use may be enhanced if the recommended moisturizer conforms to the patient's preferences 6