Eczema is an allergic condition that causes chronic rashes on the skin.   It itches and can appear on every part of the body.  It is commonly found on the hands, inside of knees and elbows, ankles, and on the face and scalp. It is an embarrassing condition that most people with eczema will do anything to treat.  Eczema treatment doesn't have to be prescription medicines and ointments.  You can treat your eczema while using natural products you find in the home, and simply by making a few lifestyle changes.  Here are some ways to treat your eczema naturally. 

Use Coconut Oil    

Coconut oil is a wonderful moisturizer that is less expensive than some prescription creams.  You can find it in health food stores, some grocery stores and online.  Simply apply the coconut oil on the problem areas and give it time to absorb into the skin. 

Use Aloe Vera

This natural gel substance has been used for centuries in healing skin conditions and injuries.  It contains healing properties that can heal dry and itchy skin that comes with eczema.  Apply the gel from a leaf all over the rash and allow it to be absorbed.  You can find aloe vera plants at your local garden center or nursery.

Use Chamomile

Chamomile soothes inflammation and helps fight the itch of eczema.  You can use chamomile in two different ways when dealing with this skin condition.  You can brew chamomile tea and use it as a compress on the affected areas, or you can use chamomile essential oils to rub directly on the eczema and allow it to heal the skin.

Avoid Harsh Products

Something that may be causing your eczema to flare up is the products that you use.  Be sure to use soaps, shower gel, shampoos, and conditioners that do not contain perfumes, dyes and other harmful chemicals that will cause your eczema to become irritated.  Sodium lauryl sulfate is in many soap products and works as a lathering agent, but tends to irritate sensitive skin.  Parabens are in many hygiene products and also irritate sensitive skin.  Also, avoid harsh detergents for washing clothes.  These products can cause eczema breakouts to become more irritated as well. 

Change Your Diet

The food that you are eating may be causing your eczema to become irritated.  Your diet plays a large role in what happens to your skin, as it is your largest organ that excretes waste.  Foods that help encourage liver and gut health will help to clear up eczema breakouts as well. 

Gluten and processed foods will irritate your system, therefore irritating your skin.  Eating a diet rich in whole foods, fresh fruits and vegetables, and other raw foods will help to sooth the skin.  Omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, nuts and seeds encourage healthy gut health, too.  Eliminating processed carbohydrates such as pasta, cereal and bread will clean up your system as well.  Dairy products tend to trigger eczema, so eliminating milk, cheese, yogurts and butter from your diet.

Change Your Clothing

Wearing loose-fitting clothes can help you avoid irritation from your clothes.  When the clothing touches your skin all day, it can rub and chafe the skin.  Cotton and silk are the least irritating materials for clothing.  Loose and soft fabrics don't tend to irritate your skin as much throughout the day.  When exercising, wear material that will draw wetness away from your skin while you sweat. 

Use a Humidifier

During the winter, the air tends to be drier, so using a humidifier can put adequate moisture back into the air in your home.  This will cut down on the likeliness of an eczema breakout.  Use it in the bedroom and in your living area, especially when the air is the driest.

Bathe in Warm Water

Hot water will take moisture out of your skin, and cause it to become dry and itchy.  Instead, use warm water and only take a shower or bath every other day if possible.  Make your time in the water as short as possible.  Pat yourself dry afterward, and be sure to use something that will put the moisture back into your skin.

For eczema treatment, contact Northwest Asthma & Allergy Center PS.