Eczema and dry skin can be uncomfortable, itchy and leave skin sore and inflamed. Natural ingredients have been used for thousands of years to help treat flare-ups and moisturize broken and dry skin. If you suffer with either, these 5 ingredients can help with treating these skin conditions and leaving the skin feeling revitalized and soothed.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Whilst vinegar may sound like a bizarre ingredient to put on damaged skin, it has been known to have several healing properties and improve acidity levels within the skin. Those with eczema usually have a more alkaline skin than normal. Our skin is meant to be acidic, meaning apple cider vinegar can restore this acidity, therefore strengthening the skin’s natural defenses. This vinegar can also fight bacteria, reducing your risk of infection. You must always dilute apple cider vinegar before applying to the skin; an easy way to do this is by adding two cups into your bath and soak for around 20 minutes. Be sure to moisturize well after bathing in vinegar.
Coconut Oil
If you suffer with dry skin, a natural oil based substance could help with retaining moisture. Coconut oil is especially useful as it contains a number of fatty acids, which can moisturize the skin from the outside. Virgin coconut oil is best for those with eczema and sensitive skin. This can be used several times a day if needed. Most often, this is used before bed and kept on overnight. Be sure not to smother your skin in too much oil though- apply an even layer that soaks nicely into the skin.
Honey
Honey is often used for wounds, as it’s well known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. If you have small wounds or broken skin due to dry skin or eczema, honey can help heal the skin whilst promoting healing and providing moisture. Manuka honey is usually designed for skin application and can be found in many supermarkets and drugstores. Use this sparingly, as honey can be very sticky. You may want to apply a dressing over the area to prevent it from sticking to clothes.
Colloidal Oatmeal
This natural ingredient is incredible for skin health. Whilst you may think of oatmeal as a breakfast ingredient, when applied on the skin it can improve the feeling of dry skin and reduce the itch, meaning it could be good for eczema. Not only does it moisturize the skin, it binds to the skin, creating a barrier of protection. This can also be used to treat sunburn and acne. This product can be used at any age, making it the perfect ingredient for a child with eczema.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is one of the most common plants used for a large range of skin conditions and ailments. As aloe vera is an antimicrobial, it can be used to soothe eczema and reduce the risk of infection. This natural product can be found at many cosmetic stores, or you may want to purchase your own plant and take the gel straight from the source. If you are going to do this, ensure you know how to care for your plant and how to extract the gel correctly. Using the gel straight from the source is best for sensitive skin, as other products containing aloe vera may be mixed with perfumes or alcohol which will cause further damage to dry skin or eczema.
These ingredients can be used to help treat dry skin and eczema but will not be able to cure it. If these ingredients don’t work and your dry skin or eczema is getting out of control, speak to your doctor about alternative treatments.
