Eczema affects about 20% of infants and about 3% of adults as well as young children in the United States. Most infants outgrow eczema while some continue to have symptoms until adulthood. But what is eczema really and why is it so hard to conquer, despite all of the high-tech treatments and medical advances?
Before anything else, let us define what this skin condition really is. Eczema is a term for a collection of skin conditions that causes the skin to become inflamed and irritated. Atopic dermatitis is the most common form of eczema and this means that eczema could be due to an allergic reaction to a substance or an allergen.
Eczema is very itchy and sometimes the skin is already itchy even before rashes appear. Fine rashes appear on the face, neck, knees, back, wrist or feet. The skin affected by eczema is often thickened and scaly; in people who have fair skin, eczema rashes may look reddish or brownish.
Sometimes rashes could make your skin turn darker or lighter. The cause of eczema is unknown but studies show that it is related to the body's overactive response to an allergen or an irritant. The reactions of the immune system are the symptoms that a person experiences.
The secret to getting rid of all the symptoms that you are experiencing and to gain control of your life is to first find out more about your symptoms. Here are some steps to follow:
Drinking 8 or more glasses of water per day will increase your skin's moisture from the inside. Here are ways to add moisture to your skin from the outside:
Honey does not just lock in moisture on skin but it can also treat eczema scars and lesions.
It has natural antibacterial properties and could greatly reduce eczema symptoms.
You can apply honey directly on skin or you may mix honey and sugar to create a soft honey scrub to remove eczema scars and reduce itching.
Apple cider vinegar has natural antiseptic properties which is effective for bacteria and for yeast infections.
It can heal eczema marks and scars plus it can also control itching and flare ups.
Just like honey, you may apply apple cider vinegar as-is over eczema lesions or you may mix it with honey to create a sweet and sour drink. Take this drink at least three times a day to reduce skin inflammation and itching.
Aloe vera has numerous benefits and one of these is to cure eczema and to reduce eczema scars. Aloe has amazing natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce itching and even lighten skin as a result of eczema rashes.
You can use aloe plants directly, simply cut a large aloe leaf up and use the creamy gel inside over your lesions. You may also use aloe vera preparations like soaps, creams, juice and supplements to take advantage of its amazing natural benefits.
Baking soda is very easy to use over skin lesions, itching and flare ups due to eczema.
Simply apply baking soda powder over the affected area at least several times a day or create a paste made of baking soda and water.
Apply this paste over eczema lesions twice a day to reduce inflammation, redness and especially itching.
You may also dip in a bathtub filled with warm water and a few tablespoons of baking soda. Soak for at least 30 minutes twice a day to get rid of inflammation and itching.
This natural oil is not just great for cooking but it can help ease numerous skin conditions because it contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce itching, rashes and flare ups of eczema.
The best kind of olive oil is virgin olive oil. Simply place a few drops of oil on your hands and then rub it over the itchy or inflamed area. You may apply a warm washcloth over the area and let it stay till the cloth cools; this intensifies the action of olive oil. Regular use of olive oil will help make skin less prone to itching and dryness that can aggravate eczema.
This product is amazing for scars and lesions and can help restore the moisture in your skin, so it's able to help by reducing itching and dryness caused by eczema.
There are many skin care products that contain cocoa butter, like soaps, lotions and shampoos. But you can also use cocoa butter as-is.
Simply apply a small amount on the affected area, then massage it using small circular strokes. Repeat this process at least two or three times a day.
Lemon has natural properties that can soften and lighten skin.
Lemon will also help reduce itching and inflammation.
You may use lemon juice as it is or you can use lemon together with honey to make a soothing scrub.
Oatmeal may be used as a scrub to soothe itching and inflammation. You can combine oatmeal with honey to make a soothing scrub.
Simply place this paste over affected skin and then let it remain for about 30 minutes. Remove with a clean cloth and then rinse. Repeat this process twice a day. Soon you will be able to reduce inflammation and itching.
Following these easy and effective strategies will help you control your eczema flare-ups. They will also help you conquer eczema for good! Now you can say goodbye to eczema forever. If you have any comments or other remedies not mentioned, please let me know in the comments below.