Eczema is an allergic rash that affects people who are prone to allergies, asthma and hay fever.
A person can also just have it as an isolated event.
It can cause quite a lot of stress and discomfort as it brings with it itching, disfigurement, and the wondering about what the actual cause is.
Fortunately, there are things you can do at home that are excellent remedies for this condition.
The following are just some of the eczema home remedies that people can try:
- One thing you can create is an oatmeal bath.
You basically use colloidal oatmeal that you can get at any drug store or pharmacy.
Colloidal oatmeal is oatmeal that is ground into a powder that you mix with a tub of lukewarm water.
You use two cups per tubful of water.
Bathe in it for about 15-30 minutes and it will take away the itching and soothe the skin. - You can also use plain petroleum jelly on the skin after you bathe in an oatmeal (or any) bath.
You apply a thin layer while the skin is still wet in order to prevent moisture from leaving the skin.
You can also use over the counter creams and ointments such as Moisturel, Eucerin and Lubriderm creams.
Do not use lotion because lotion contains alcohol, which is ultimately drying to the skin. - Do something as simple as changing your laundry detergent because it can be the culprit in causing the eczema to flare.
Instead use laundry detergent with no coloring agents and no fragrances in it. - You may need to remove certain foods that can cause eczema.
The most common foods to consider include gluten products, soy products, milk products, seafood (shellfish) and peanuts or other nuts.
Once you determine what it is that is causing the allergy, you can actually get rid of the irritation without the need for further eczema home remedies. - Wear cotton clothing that has been washed in hypoallergenic detergent after buying it.
You need to avoid polyester clothing which doesn't breathe.
You also need to refrain from wearing wool as it itches and can make eczema worse. - Take only lukewarm showers or baths.
Water that is too cold or too hot is irritating to the skin and can make the condition worse.
Use a hypoallergenic soap or a hypoallergenic body cleanser.
Use no fragrances in your soap and also make sure that the soap is white in color. - Avoid doing any strenuous exercise when you have a flare up of eczema.
This is because exercise will make you sweat and the sweat can irritate the skin.
If you do exercise, wash yourself in a lukewarm shower afterward in order to get the sweat off your skin.
Don't use any soap and instead use a hypoallergenic alternative.
Dry with a soft cotton towel and apply your emollient. - Avoid mental stress and try to eat a healthy diet.
Getting enough sleep can even help to make your eczema better.