Can Eczema be Cured Completely?

Ever found your skin dry, itchy, and inflamed with red spots or appear scaly? Then, probably, you have eczema, and the rashes are harrowing at their worst.

Children are the most affected by eczema. It appears periodically and is very frustrating. The sad part is there is no cure for eczema, but it is a manageable condition.

If you or your child has been diagnosed with eczema, managing the symptoms are essential. Though there are numerous medicines to treat the condition, there are natural ways to manage eczema at home.

Know here about eczema and the many natural ways to treat it.

What is Eczema?

Our skin acts as a barrier protecting us from external agents like chemicals, allergens, germs, etc. This barrier function is the most vital function of the skin. However, the skin condition, eczema, weakens this skin barrier function and leads to red, itchy, and bumpy or leathery skin.

Around eleven diseases are identified to cause eczema. And commonly, eczema is associated with Atopic Dermatitis.

Atopic Dermatitis is chronic. The flare-ups occur periodically. According to Harvard Health Publishing, eczema flare-ups can be controlled in one to three weeks, with proper treatment.

Symptoms of Eczema Include:

Some Causes of Eczema are:

Who is Most Affected by the Condition?

Statistics show that eczema affects around 20% of children and 3% of adults worldwide. Most children outgrow their symptoms as they age, but some carry one or two symptoms into their adulthood. People in colder climates are more prone to this skin condition. Also, eczema is common in people with asthma in their family history.

Eczema Treatment: Natural Solutions

While there are many pharmacological ways to treat eczema, treating naturally reduces side effects. Here are some natural eczema treatment solutions you should give a try.

1. Oatmeal

Oatmeal colloidal is great for treating eczema. It is a soothing agent and relieves itching and irritation. In addition, the colloidal contains loads of lipids, proteins, and other nutrients that nourish the skin and ease eczema symptoms. As it is organic, it is ideal for use even in severe cases of eczema.

You can make your own eczema cream by grounding oat grains into a fine powder, soaking it in water and then applying the paste to the affected area. The cellulose and fibres in the oats soften the skin and reduce irritation. This eczema treatment is suited for both children and adults. Alternatively, you can use organic body lotions containing oatmeal to help ease the symptoms.

2. Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera is a medicinal plant with anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, and anti-viral properties. In addition, it provides a moisturising effect and is loaded with antioxidants. Also, the aloe vera gel has wound healing properties.

Recent research published in the Journal of Genetics and Genetic Engineering showed that aloe vera gel helps manage eczema with minimum side effects and at low cost. But the study also suggests that the product you choose must contain high concentrations of aloe vera gel for better results. In addition, apply body lotions with aloe vera to provide the needed nourishment to your and your children’s skin.

3. Chickweed

Chickweed has long been used as a herbal remedy to reduce inflammation, heal wounds, treat aches and pains and improve digestion. Today, it is found more commonly in topical applications to manage eczema and psoriasis symptoms due to its potent compounds. It is rich in vitamins, including the antioxidant vitamin C, flavonoids and omega-6 fatty acid gamma-linolenic acid.

Gels and eczema creams containing chickweed keep inflamed and irritated skin cool and calm. It also alleviates dry, red, itching skin and repairs damaged skin. It is suitable for all ages, even newborns.

4. Calendula

Calendula has a soothing effect on the skin and is often used to treat eczema. It’s a natural oil extracted from marigold flowers. As it's uber gentle on the skin, it is used to treat wounds, diaper rashes, insect bites, and sunburns, making it suitable for all ages.

Calendula has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. When applied to the affected skin, it helps increase the blood flow and improve hydration, which is required to manage eczema. Use body washes, lotions, creams, oils or lip balms containing Calendula to keep eczema out of your life.

5. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is one of the most common home remedies for eczema. Eczema skin is less acidic. Applying apple cider vinegar can balance the acidity levels of the skin.

But, be cautious while using apple cider vinegar, especially with children. The vinegar is highly acidic, and applying it in a concentrated form can damage skin cells. Instead, always dilute the vinegar in water before applying it to the skin. You can also consider taking organic apple cider vinegar supplements to improve the acidity levels in your body and remove unwanted toxins.

6. Cold Compress

Cold compress gives immediate relief from itching, irritation, and inflammation. Start by putting a clean, cool, wet cloth on the affected area. It will instantly relieve the pain as it numbs the area, contracts the veins, and cuts blood circulation. After a cold compress, gently apply a moisturiser to seal in the moisture your skin desperately needs.

7. Coconut oil

Coconut oil acts as a moisturiser, and the fatty acids help maintain the skin acidity balance. It also reduces inflammation, skin irritation and soothes the skin. You can use coconut oil throughout the day. The best part is there are no side effects with coconut oil eczema treatment unless you are allergic to coconuts.

Apart from coconut oil, you can also try sunflower oil, evening primrose oil, and tea tree oil.

8. Konjac Sponge

Konjac is a plant that has been used as a herbal remedy for centuries. The Konjac sponge is made from the plant’s fibre and is excellent for super sensitive skin and skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Once hydrated with water, they become so soft that you can use them for babies as well. It's packed with vitamins and natural minerals that help your skin remain healthy and hydrated. As it also contains ceramide, it aids in replenishing the ceramide levels in the outermost layer of the skin, which is generally low in people suffering from eczema. You can also try out sponges blended with different clays and powders to get additional benefits.

9. Reduce stress

Stress triggers eczema more often than any other factor. Therefore, keeping yourself stress-free can reduce eczema flare-up frequency.

Some ways to reduce stress are: