Home Remedies For Managing The Itch Of Atopic Dermatitis
Try these alternative therapies as a complement to your treatment plan for eczema.
Tatjana Zlatkovic/Stocksy
For many people dry, itchy skin is the main and most troublesome symptom of atopic dermatitis, a type of eczema. But scratching can irritate skin and make the condition worse.
Following your treatment plan is the best way to manage atopic dermatitis symptoms, but if youre still struggling to find itch relief, a solution may literally be close to home.
Eczema can be difficult to treat, as the skin barrier is altered and needs to be repaired and protected from further damage, explains Beth Goldstein, MD, who practices at Central Dermatology Center in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
A complementary home remedy can often assist with this process and result in less itchy, dry, flaky skin, according to Dr. Goldstein.
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Spread Storebought Gel On The Area For Quick Treatment
Aloe Vera Supplements Help Control Your Eczema
If you are struggling with eczema, incorporate an aloe vera supplement into your diet. Our products come in pill or powder form and optimize your bodys metabolism by using the plants healing properties.
Alongside an aloe vera supplement, try the following natural remedies to help reduce the effects of your eczema:
- Take vitamin D supplements.
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Aloe Vera & Olive Oil
Add three drops of olive oil to a tablespoonful of aloe vera and stir thoroughly to obtain a thick paste. Apply the paste once a day. Once again, observe the effects of the mixture to ensure no allergic reactions will occur when applying this mixture of aloe vera and olive oil in a broader portion of your skin.
How Effective Is Aloe Vera For Eczema
The use of aloe vera as a natural and mild moisturizer for dry skin is recommended by many individuals.
Even though the effects of aloe vera on eczema have only been the subject of a limited number of scientific researches, there is evidence to suggest that it may be effective.
There is some evidence that the plant’s antioxidant, antibacterial, immune boosting, and wound healing characteristics can help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with eczema, according to a comprehensive analysis conducted in 2015.
Eczema is more likely to cause skin infections since the condition causes the skin to crack and bleed. Because of its antibacterial properties, aloe vera can assist in the prevention of certain illnesses.
The wound-healing qualities of aloe vera might help injured skin patches heal more quickly.
In a limited trial conducted in 2018, researchers showed that topical ointment containing a combination of chamomile and aloe vera might help alleviate the symptoms of diaper dermatitis.
However, even while natural remedies can help alleviate some of the symptoms of eczema, there is currently no known cure for the illness.
You need to determine the precise causes and triggers of your eczema and avoid them as much as possible to prevent the condition. You may also consult a medical professional on the treatment of eczema and its prevention.
Since aloe vera is such an effective moisturizer, it may be used to treat a variety of skin ailments, including eczema and dry skin.
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Types Of Aloe That Are Best For Eczema
Aloe vera is one of 420 different types of aloe plant species. Most aloe-based products that are available are produced from the Aloe barbadensis miller plant.
There are many aloe vera-based products available. You can purchase them at health food stores, drugstores, and online.
Look for products that contain higher amounts of aloe vera gelsome products contain only small amounts of aloe vera and will not offer as many benefits.
Avoid aloe vera products that contain added fragrances or alcohol. Both of these substances can cause irritation and worsen the symptoms of eczema.
You can also extract the gel directly from the plant if you have one in your home. Cut off a leaf and scoop or squeeze the gel directly from the plant.
Aloe Vera With Vitamin E Oil
The anti-oxidants present in vitamin E oil reduce the inflammation and heal eczema.
Process 1:
- Combine equal amounts of aloe vera and vitamin E oil.
- Stir well and apply the mixture on affected areas.
- Leave it on for few minutes and rinse off with water.
Process 2: With Shea Butter and Cocoa Butter
- Combine 30ml unscented butter base, 5 grams cocoa butter, 15gms shea butter, 3 grams aloe vera gel and 2 grams vitamin E oil.
- Mix the ingredients well and store the mixture in an air-tight container.
- Scoop out enough mixture and apply it on affected areas.
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A Note Of Caution When Using Aloe Vera For Eczema
Aloe vera can also be taken orally for medical complaints, such as depression and stomach problems, with known side effects such as abdominal cramps and diarrhoea. However, used on the skin there are few disadvantages of using aloe vera for eczema unless youre allergic to it.
Aloe vera allergies are uncommon but do occur. According to a 2016 study titled Aloe Vera: A Review of Toxicity and Adverse Clinical Effects, The chances of developing an allergic reaction are higher if you are allergic to other plants in the lily family such as garlic, onions and tulips. As with all new skin products, its wise to patch test a small area prior to extensive.
Unfortunately, eczema and allergies often come hand in hand, and since fresh aloe vera has a short shelf life, it is often combined with other ingredients and preservatives which can cause allergic reactions lookout for methylisothiazolinone and parabens which are known to aggravate eczema in some people.
How To Use Aloe Vera For Rashes
Using aloe vera for rashes is quite straightforward. While over-the-counter creams containing aloe vera are an excellent option, you should ideally apply fresh aloe vera gel to your skin. You can extract aloe vera gel from the plant by cutting open a leaf and scooping it out with a spoon.
You can directly apply the fresh aloe vera gel to the affected area. Then, wait for it to dry for a few minutes before continuing with your day as usual. You can apply the gel twice a day for the best results. You can also apply it more often if the rash is severe.
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Combining Aloe Vera With Other Natural Treatments For Enhanced Results
A combo of aloe vera and a different natural treatment can go a long way. The treatments that can be used alongside the aloe are coconut oil, turmeric, and olive oil. The precaution above still holds. Test out these remedies on a small part to see how the skin will react before going in widely.
Here is how to go about it.
Aloe Vera And Rosewater
You will need 1 tablespoon of rose water and 1 tablespoon of aloe vera. Mix the two ingredients together to form a type of paste before applying to the area of skin that is affected. Leave on the skin for ten minutes before washing it off with cold water. You can repeat this method twice a day for relief.
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Can You Use Aloe Vera For Eczema On Babies
A babys skin is very sensitive and prone to getting infections. Not only that, but they also tend to respond harshly to topical treatments. However, a natural aloe vera gel or treatment can help babys in treating skin concerns such as eczema.
Eczema can afflict a babys skin and it tends to be intolerable for it. A small study revealed that using an ointment that contains aloe vera and chamomile can help to relieve diaper rash.
Another clinical study confirms how aloe works on a common type of dermatitis in infants called diaper dermatitis . The researchers confirmed that regular use of aloe vera can successfully relieve and heal the rash.
They also recorded that none of the participants experienced harsh reactions or side effects. So if you are worried about incorporating a new product into your babys routine, aloe vera is a safe choice.
Does Aloe Vera Help Eczema How It Works
Aloe vera has specific properties that have made it a darling in soothing and rejuvenating the skin. And these come into play big time in dealing with the damage left behind by eczema.
First off is the antimicrobial property that averts any bacterial and fungal infections. See, with the skin being all broken, it is very much vulnerable to attacks from bacteriaand fungi. But aloe vera serves to eliminate these organisms before they can initiate any further problems to an already troubled individual.
Secondly, a wound-healing property is particularly vital in an eczema situation. There is broken skin in lots of places, as mentioned above. And those are lots of wounds, patches that need to be repaired. Aloe vera contains polysaccharides that boost skin growth hence, healing!
Finally, the antioxidant content in aloe vera is a great addition to your bodys immunity. This prevents any further skin infections that could occur when your skin is already vulnerable.
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What Kind Of Aloe Vera Should I Use For Eczema
Aloe gel is available over the counter and it is best to use gel for topical applications.
You can even get aloe from an aloe plant. Start by taking aloe vera leaves that you purchased or grew from your garden. Cut the leaves at the sides and gently peel them off. Take the gel you extracted from the leaves and use a blender to blend the gel into a liquid. At this point, the gel is ready to used and be applied topically to the area of irritation. Some people have recommended mix Vit C and Vit E as a preservative if you plan to store it for more than 1 week.
C Home Remedies For Eczema
1. Tea Tree Oil Massage
One of the most recommended oils for treating eczema, tea tree oil provides hydration for dry skin. Its antibacterial properties help prevent infection. Further, its application on eczema affected skin can control certain inflammatory triggers, due to the presence of flavonoids.
How To Use Tea Tree Oil:
Simply massage tea tree oil on hands and fingers for curing hand eczema. It is also safe to apply for treating eczema on the face, around the mouth and around the eyes. Wash off after 20 minutes of application.
2. Green or Black Tea Cleansing
Cleaning the affected areas with tea is considered a great home remedy for eczema. For the face, using green or black tea as a face cleanser can unclog pores and reduce chances of swelling. It is also a great skin rejuvenator and might help in preventing skin hyperpigmentation.
How To Use Green or Black Tea:
Apart from treating face eczema, washing your scalp with tea can help reduce flaking, a common symptom of scalp eczema. Leave it on for 20 minutes and wash off with lukewarm water.
3. Vitamin E Oil Spot Treatment
Use of Vitamin E oil has shown positive results in curing various symptoms such as dry skin, flaking and itching. It is advisable to do a patch test before direct application. Vitamin E oil is best combined with a carrier oil such as almond or coconut oil and applied to eczema affected areas.
How To Use Vitamin E Oil:
4. Shea Butter
How To Use Shea Butter:
5. Marigold And Honey Face Pack
How To Use:
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Is Aloe Vera Good For Eczema How To Apply Aloe Vera For Eczema
The medicinal properties of aloe vera are indisputable and numerous!
From ancient times to this modern era, its proven that aloe can combat several health conditions, eczema being one of them.
In the olden days inhabitants of Egypt and China turned to aloe vera whenever they faced fever, burns, or wounds. Howd they even know?
These have carried on into the modern world, and some more discovered. They include lowering blood sugar levels, curing athletes foot, reducing dandruff, etc. this list goes on.
And, of course, treating eczema.
Honestly, its so easy to get carried away with spelling out the many uses of this super awesome succulent, but thats beside the point.
For now, lets look at eczema and what aloe vera can do for you.
When Aloe Vera For Redness May Treat Irritation And Inflammation
Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe skin rashes. As a bonus, aloe is also thought to have antimicrobial capabilities, which may in turn help to prevent infections. Additionally, aloe vera gel is known for its ability to help moisturize your skin without leaving any residue that heavy creams sometimes can.
While aloe vera cant cure any skin disease or treat every single instance of skin inflammation, here are the instances where it could possibly help:
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Here Are Some Of The Main Benefits Of Growing Aloe Vera Indoors:
Improves air quality
Aloe vera removes toxins from the air and helps to purify your indoor air. This means that your indoor air quality will improve as you use this plant.
Reduces stress
Aloe vera has a lot of different properties that can help reduce the amount of stress that you feel when you are indoors. It is also known to be able to relieve anxiety and stress-related conditions such as headaches, stomach aches, muscle pain, fatigue, insomnia, and depression.
Improves sleep
It is often used by people who have trouble sleeping. It helps to relax your body and mind so that you can fall asleep easier.
Lowers blood pressure
When you inhale its fragrance, it increases the level of oxygen in your blood. The high levels of oxygen increase the amount of oxygen that flows through your blood and into your brain. This can help lower your blood pressure.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Aloe Vera For Eczema
Historically, people have used aloe vera to treat and manage a variety of skin problems and disorders, including cuts, burns, and rashes. However, although youll definitely find a sea of individual success stories and anecdotal evidence on the effectiveness of aloe vera for eczema, the research is still lacking.
There havent been a lot of studies that can conclusively prove that aloe vera can significantly benefit people who are suffering from eczema. Nevertheless, aloe vera does contain anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and antioxidant properties that may help relieve inflamed skin and other eczema symptoms.
Here are some of the potential benefits of using aloe vera to help treat eczema:
Although theres very little research to confirm that aloe vera will work as an eczema treatment, theres no harm in giving it a try. After all, with eczema, people try to find relief where they can.
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Aloe Vera With Olive Oil
Olive Oil penetrates deep into the skin to nourish and softens it. It also soothes the itching and inflammation of eczema.
- Scoop out the gel from an aloe vera leaf.
- Combine few drops of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel.
- Apply the mixture on affected areas.
- Repeat the application 2 or 3 times a day.
Using Aloe Vera For Eczema: Alternative Remedies #2
Unfortunately, eczema is a condition where there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. This makes it particularly frustrating to parents who simply want to alleviate the horrible eczema symptoms which cause so much suffering for itchy children. Whilst you may be lucky and find an effective treatment the first time you visit the doctor, its more likely that you will join a large number of parents who have to look at a range of ways to reduce flare-ups and alleviate the symptoms.
The individuality of eczema leads many parents to turn to complementary therapies alongside prescribed medication. Weve written previously about the use of acupressure and coconut oil though it is likely you will also see that Aloe Vera treatments are a popular alternative when it comes to treating eczema.
Aloe vera is cactus-like, succulent plant with thick fleshy leaves filled with a clear, gelatinous substance. This gel has been used to treat skin conditions including eczema for centuries and there is some scientific evidence that Aloe Vera gel can be effective in treating the symptoms commonly associated with eczema: dry, broken and irritated skin which is vulnerable infections.
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Signs And Symptoms Of Eczema
Signs and symptoms of eczema vary from an individual to another. Generally, they include some of the following
- A susceptible skin.
- Red to brownish-grey skin patches on various parts of the body like feet, ankles, upper chest and wrists.
- Itching. It can become worse over time, especially during the night.
- Small swellings on the skin. These leak and form crusts when scratched.
- A thickened, scaly skin that is cracked.
Unfortunately, eczema treatment hasnt been worked out yet. The available options are just remedies to reduce the severity of this condition, not completely rid of it.
And the good old aloe vera features are prominent in decreasing the severity and uncomfortable effects of eczema.