Calming Eczema: 5 Natural Remedies and Tips

According to the National Eczema Association, in the U.S. alone, almost 31.6 million people are affected by eczema. Globally, eczema affects about 15-20 percent of kids and 1-3 percent of adults.

Eczema is a long-term inflammatory skin condition that often worsens due to environmental triggers, stress, or the wrong skincare products. If you’re one of those who struggle with eczema, you would know how frustrating the flare-ups can be.

Read below this article to explore some of the best natural remedies and tips to calm eczema.

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that is often indicated by inflammation, redness, and itching. Eczema flare-ups can be triggered by allergens, irritants, stress, or sudden weather changes.

Below are some top natural remedies to give you relief from eczema symptoms.

Coconut oil is an effective natural moisturizer that provides hydration to dry, eczema-prone skin. Due to its lauric acid content, it's helpful in preventing infections in cracked or irritated areas.

Moreover, regular application of virgin coconut oil has shown significant improvement in skin barrier function and reduced skin inflammation.

Colloidal oatmeal, which is derived from finely ground oats, is another effective natural remedy for eczema due to its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties.

Just add it to a lukewarm bath, and it will form a protective barrier on the skin, thereby reducing itching and irritation. Furthermore, it has a gentle nature, which makes it suitable even for kids dealing with eczema.

Aloe vera gel, extracted from the aloe plant, has soothing and anti-inflammatory effects. It is known to provide immediate relief from itching while promoting healing of irritated skin.

Besides, its hydrating properties also help to repair the skin barrier, which further reduces the frequency and intensity of eczema flare-ups.

Apple cider vinegar is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it another effective home remedy for eczema care. It is primarily effective in restoring the skin's natural pH balance.

Eczema-prone skin typically has a higher pH level, which hampers its barrier function and makes it more prone to skin irritation. Diluted ACV, when applied as a compress or added to a bath, actually helps to normalize the pH, making it less susceptible to microbial growth.

However, it's important to dilute ACV before application; typically, a ratio of one part vinegar to ten parts water is recommended for safe use, as a higher concentration may cause irritation.

Tea tree oil is also known for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. It contains terpinen-4-ol, an active compound that helps combat the growth of bacteria and fungi, thereby reducing secondary infections linked to eczema.

In fact, topical application of diluted tea tree oil has shown significant improvement in itching and redness by minimizing inflammation and bacterial presence in several studies.

While applying, make sure to dilute it with a carrier oil such as coconut oil to avoid skin irritation.

While eczema doesn't have a cure, with proper treatment and home remedies, such as lifestyle and dietary changes, baths, and natural oils, you can actually manage the symptoms effectively.

However, if your eczema is severe, consult your healthcare provider immediately for more effective prescription treatments. If you notice your little one developing rashes, it might be a sign of eczema in babies, and you must seek immediate medical attention.