Eczema is a pesky skin condition that can be difficult to manage until you find the right solution for your skin type. Various triggers provoke an eczema flare-up, but finding relief may be easier than you think.
The best route will always be a product or home remedy that utilizes natural ingredients that won't further irritate your skin. There are a lot of triggers that you may be unaware of that we've researched and included for you in this article. We've also compiled a list of the best natural eczema creams and remedies that you can try if your previous attempts to manage the symptoms have been unsuccessful.
What Is Eczema?
In a nutshell, eczema is when certain conditions come together to cause your skin to be inflamed, itchy, or to appear as though you have a rash. Eczema is not only pretty common, but it can begin in any stage of life- adulthood, adolescence, or childhood. Eczema can also range from being mild to being very severe.
It's important to note that eczema isn't contagious, and the cause is unknown. It is thought to have some association with a particular combination of genes as well as environmental triggers.
Symptoms of Eczema
Everyone doesn't have the same eczema symptoms. Therefore, your eczema may not be triggered by or appear the same as someone else's eczema, even your own child. Eczema occurs in different areas of the body and not always at the same time.
Two of the most common symptoms of eczema are inflammation and itchiness, which can be mild or moderate. The itch can become so insufferable that someone may scratch their skin to the point of blessing, which usually makes it worse. Due to these cyclical phases that those living with eczema experience, it's a good idea to start finding an eczema cream as soon as you identify the condition.
Common Symptoms:
- Leathery patches of skin that may be rough or scaly
- Itchy skin
- Dry skin that's also sensitive to certain products
- Inflammation in certain areas
- Crusty, flaking skin
- Oozing pus on specific areas of the skin
- Redness
- Small bumps
You could have a few of these symptoms or all of them. You may experience eczema daily, an occasional flare-up, or you may find that as you get older, your symptoms disappear. Check here for a list of eczema triggers that you should be aware of.
Natural Remedies for Eczema
Below are some of the most effective natural eczema creams and remedies that have shown success for mild to moderate eczema symptoms. Be sure to always do a skin test first before applying any of these products all over your body. You want to be confident that these products themselves, while unlikely, won't cause any irritation to your skin.
1. Aloe Vera Gel (AVG)
You can purchase AVG from the store, or you can retrieve it directly from an aloe vera plant. A recent review and study of the substance has produced reports that Aloe Vera gel has multiple properties that can soothe eczema.
These properties include:
- Antimicrobial
- Antibacterial
- Heals wounds such as burns and cuts
- Boosts the immune system
The first two properties are excellent for preventing infection on your skin, which can happen if your skin is constantly cracked or split. The healing property helps with soothing the cracked skin and also enabling it to heal correctly.
Home use:
- One cup of Aloe Vera gel
- Two teaspoons of water
- One drop of lavender essential oil (optional, also promotes skin healing and has antibacterial properties)
Mix these ingredients and rub them onto the affected areas for immediate relief from itching and burning. Over time, this natural eczema cream should produce a bit of relief, as well as moisturized skin.
Unless you use the Aloe Vera plant directly, make sure you select an AVG product with very few other ingredients besides Aloe Vera. Your skin can be further irritated by alcohol, preservatives, colors, and fragrances. Some of these ingredients can actually make your eczema worse, so please read the label before making a purchase.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
Apple Cider Vinegar is popular in the world of health and fitness. Additionally, it can be a staple ingredient in natural remedies for various skin disorders.
The NEA (National Eczema Association) supports that ACV can have a positive effect on eczema symptoms. However, take precautions when using ACV because the acidity of the vinegar may damage the skin's soft tissue.
Here are several reasons as to why ACV may be beneficial:
- Apple Cider Vinegar can balance the acidity levels in your skin because it is highly acidic. Those with eczema have low skin acidity. This has been shown to weaken your defense mechanisms as it relates to skin barriers.
- Based on studies, Apple Cider Vinegar can help fight bacteria such as Staphylococcus Aureus and Escherichia coli. ACV can assist in preventing cracked skin from getting infected.
Note: You have to dilute the Apple Cider Vinegar before use on the skin because the vinegar can cause chemical burns if not properly diluted.
Home use:
Wet Wrap
- Start by mixing 1 tablespoon of ACV with 1 cup of water (warm).
- Shake the mixture and apply it to a piece of gauze or a cotton ball.
- Cover the patch of skin that's affected by Eczema with this wrap for precisely 3 hours.
ACV Soak
- Pour 2 cups of ACV into a bathtub filled with warm water.
- Soak your body for approximately 20 minutes.
- Rinse off thoroughly, and be sure to moisturize your body immediately after editing the tub.
Do not use this remedy for babies and small children. Their skin is generally more sensitive than adults and can be irritated or burned by the ACV.
3. Lingonberries
This little known super-food is a criminally underrated addition to any Eczema regime. In fact, it's the key ingredient of our Lingon Emulsion. Ingesting Lingonberries brings with it a host of benefits like weight loss, immune system fortification, and gut health.
However, we use it as a topical solution by extracting and concentrating the innards of the seed. This Lingonberry seed extract has very potent anti-inflammatory properties, and that's where Lingon Emulsion gets its famous qualities.
Along with its powerful inflammation fighting attributes, Lingonberries are also anti-bacterial and anti-viral. Even severe cases of Eczema are no match for this trifecta.
Learn more!
4. Oatmeal (Colloidal)
This form of oatmeal is also called Avena Sativa. Colloidal oatmeal comes from oats that have undergone being ground up and boiled to withdraw healing properties.
Studies report that the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant components of colloidal oatmeal improved itchiness, rough skin, scaly skin, and dryness.
Home use:
- Run a warm bath and mix in 1 cup of colloidal oatmeal.
- Soak for approximately 30 minutes.
- You may also choose to moisturize afterward with a cream or lotion that features colloidal oatmeal and not many other ingredients to avoid irritation.
This home remedy is overall safe for both babies and adults; if you have an oat allergy, you should avoid using these products. This tip is also the case for those who have a gluten allergy because oats are processed alongside wheat.
5. Bathing
Your skin can receive essential moisture by taking a bath. Though we've recommended products that you can add to your bath, you can always opt to take a bath without adding anything else.
As previously mentioned, those with eczema have a compromised outer layer to protect their skin. This fact means that their skin constantly needs extra moisture, which can occur through bathing.
It's important not to make your eczema worse by drying out your skin when bathing. Not properly moisturizing after a bath, soaking with water that's too cold or too hot, using harsh soap, and bathing too often are culprits of dry skin.
The National Eczema Association suggests bathing once to twice a day, for no longer than 15 minutes. You should use gentle soaps and cleansers and try not to scrub your skin, which could be irritating. Note that small children and babies do not need to bathe more than twice a week.
You should also moisturize your skin using an oil-based moisturizer within two minutes of exiting the bath before your skin is completely dry. This method allows for the water to get sealed in before evaporating. Don't forget your hands!
6. Coconut Oil
Aside from being a healthier cooking oil alternative, Coconut Oil can restore a lot of moisture to your skin because it contains fatty acids. For those with dry skin, this can be a lifesaver when it comes to preventing your skin from drying out and becoming uncomfortable and itchy.
You can even take it up a notch and use virgin Coconut Oil to help fight inflammation and strengthen your outer layer skin barrier.
Home use:
- Use organic virgin Coconut Oil on your skin a few times a day, directly after bathing
- Apply the Coconut Oil before going to bed to help your skin stay moisturized throughout the night
You can find Virgin and Extra-virgin Coconut Oil online and in multiple health food stores. This oil is solid when it's at room temperature, but it will become a liquid when it's slightly warmed.
If you are allergic to coconuts, you should not use this particular home remedy. Coconut Oil is otherwise safe for babies and children as well as adults.
7. Honey
Honey is a natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent. Reviews show that honey has the power to boost your immune system and heal wounds. Immune system regulation also contributes to staving off infections and making the skin stronger from the inside out.
Honey is used as a treatment for an assortment of skin ailments such as burns, blisters, and cuts. For eczema relief, honey can speed up healing and moisturizer your skin while keeping it safe from outside irritants.
Home use:
- Use a cotton ball to little dab the honey onto the affected areas
- Allow it to stay on your skin overnight before gently rinsing in the morning
This treatment is also safe for children and babies, but you may need to be on the lookout for stickiness.
8. Tea Tree Oil
Tea Tree Oil is a natural oil that's derived from tree leaves. It helps to soothe itchy skin and scalps as a treatment for Eczema or Psoriasis.
In a study conducted in 2013, results showed that Tea Tree Oil possesses anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, and antibacterial properties. This oil can help with relieving inflammation, dry skin, and intense itching; it also helps to prevent skin infections.
Home use:
- Mix the Tea Tree Oil with what's known as a carrier oil, like Olive Oil or Almond Oil
Note that essential oils should never be applied directly to the skin without being diluted first. You can also find some Tea Tree products that are already diluted and ready to be used as a typical application for eczema relief.
9. Change Your Diet
Diet changes may help improve eczema symptoms by eliminating inflammatory foods.
Here's a list of foods that can decrease inflammation throughout the body and lessen flare-ups:
- Leafy greens
- Fish
- Lentils
- Beans
- Cinnamon
- Turmeric
- Fruits
Inflammatory foods to avoid:
- Dairy products
- Soy
- Wheat
Making these changes to your children's diet can help with their eczema symptoms as well.
10. Use a Different Laundry Detergent and Body Wash
It's no secret that there are all kinds of harsh chemicals in many of the body and laundry soaps that we use today. These chemicals help to make the cleanser lather up nicely, but they also dry your skin out like no other. Those with eczema suffer more than those whose skin also gets stripped of natural oils by using these products.
It's best to use a cleanser that doesn't lather and has no added fragrances or coloring. Also, start away from exfoliators that have scrubbing particles in them!
Many individuals have also stated that using an organic laundry detergent can aid with improving symptoms.
*Try discarding the fabric softener for clothes since it lingers for longer and can cause an adverse reaction due to chemicals, colors, and fragrances.
11. Stay Away from High and Powerful Heat Sources
Those trying to manage eczema symptoms should stay away from high heat sources like fireplaces and furnaces. The heat may feel good because it warms you up, but it could simultaneously be making your eczema worse. The dry and hot air can make your skin extremely dehydrated, as well as itchy and tight.
Instead, opt to use a humidifier during colder seasons to help steer clear of space heaters, fireplaces, and other heat sources.
12. Dress Warmly in Cold Weather
If you live in a cold climate with harsh winters, you may have to work harder to keep your skin hydrated. Those winter winds can dry your skin out and cause lingering eczema symptoms.
This tip is crucial for both children and babies. You can always consult with a healthcare professional before deciding on the safest natural eczema remedies for babies and young children.
You can find helpful tips here, specifically targeting children with eczema.
13. Try to Relax
Though there's no consensus on how or why stress is an eczema trigger, it's believed to play an integral role in skin inflammation. If you can find ways to cope with situations that are stressful, you may find relief from eczema flare-ups that rear their head under stress and anxiety.
Here are a few relaxation techniques that can significantly reduce flare-ups:
- Deep breathing
- Massages
- Meditation
- Hypnosis
- Music therapy
- Yoga
- Pilates
- Visualization
Additional Considerations
While we're all for using products you can find around the house or at the market, you could always invest in a natural eczema cream that works and is clinically-proven.
The Lingon Emulsion products have shown promising results for the most severe eczema cases in children and adults. The ingredients won't harm your skin, and they're not only affordable but can be easily purchased online. Try this alternative if you don't find success with the home remedies listed above.
Final Thoughts
Though eczema has no proven cure, simple home remedies and other natural eczema creams and gels, such as a natural eczema hand cream, have proven useful. Using these natural ingredients can improve the look and feel of your eczema condition. Remember to stay away from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes.
If you find that your eczema isn't responding to any of the home remedies we listed, you should consult your doctor. These natural eczema remedies for babies, teens, and adults should have some effect; if not, you may need a more intense treatment plan.