Struggling with frequently itchy, dry or red patches of skin? You might be suffering from atopic eczema.
Also known as atopic dermatitis, this is the most common form of eczema which tends to be a long-term or chronic condition though it can improve or clear completely at times.
Characterised by red, scaly, dry and itchy patches of skin, the condition can affect both children and adults.
The symptoms are not only uncomfortable but also impact the quality of life of people, lowering both self-confidence and mood in sufferers.
However, there are some easy home remedies that help reduce itchiness and inflammation caused by eczema.
This National Eczema Week (September 12-18), here are five home remedies you can try according to Savaş Altan, a medical aesthetic at Vera Clinic.
Cool compress and baths
Apply a cool, wet compress over the itchy area of skin. Similarly taking a cool bath can also provide instant relief and give the skin essential moisture that it needs.
People with eczema need to keep their skin extra moisturised as the outer layer of skin is often lacking in moisture.
While cool water can help it's important to make sure that the water you're using is not too hot or cold. Also avoid using fragrance soaps that could worsen eczema.
After a bath, apply any prescribed medication or moisturiser to the skin - again avoid any lotions that have a fragrance or other irritants.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil is great for eczema prone skin as it can fight the bacteria that causes skin infections and also relieve any pain.
The antibacterial abilities of coconut oil can reduce staph bacteria on the skin, according to the National Eczema Association.
This is important for people with eczema, especially when patches of inflamed skin may crack allowing bacteria to enter.
When applying to skin, it's always best to choose virgin or cold-pressed coconut oil that’s processed without chemicals.
Honey
Honey is another natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent, which when applied to the skin can help with symptoms of eczema and itchiness.
Honey can not only help prevent infections but also moisturises that skin and speeds up healing.
Aloe vera gel
Aloe vera gel is beneficial for treating and soothing eczema since its antibacterial and antimicrobial effects prevents skin infections, that are more likely to occur when a person has dry and cracked skin.
Aloe vera also has wound-healing properties which can be helpful in soothing broken skin and promoting healing.
Loose clothing
People with eczema are also asked to avoid wearing clothes that may irritate your skin. This includes tight-fitting, rough, or scratchy clothing.
The best kind of clothes to wear would be linen, cotton, and silk as these are better options that are soft, loose and breathable on the skin.
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