Eczema is a condition where patches of skin become rough, cracked, red, and itchy along with inflammation that sometimes leads to blisters. It affects nearly 31.6 percent of people in the country. Some people outgrow the condition, while others suffer with it throughout adulthood. Treatment of eczema aims at healing the skin and preventing flare-ups of the symptoms. There is no cure for eczema as yet.

However, there are many ways to manage and support skin health and alleviate symptoms of eczema through simple home remedies:

  • Taking lukewarm baths to keep the skin hydrated
  • Applying moisturizer to seal in the moisture within three minutes of bathing
  • Moisturizing the skin every day
  • Wearing soft and cotton fabrics
  • Avoiding the use of tight-fitting, rough, and scratchy fibers
  • Washing with a mild soap or non-soap cleanser
  • Gently patting the skin dry or air drying and avoiding rubbing the skin dry after a bat
  • Avoid rapid changing temperature and activities that cause sweat
  • Learning about individual eczema triggers and avoiding it
  • Using a humidifier at times of cold or dry weather
  • To avoid skin breakage due to scratching, keep fingernails short

In addition, many eczema patients try the following natural remedies:

1. Bleach bath
Though it may seem dangerous, studies show that bleach in the bath improves eczema symptoms because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The bacteria on the surface of the skin can be killed by bleach. It can destroy bacteria like S.aureus which causes staph infection. This helps to restore the microbiome of the surface of the skin. Studies indicate that bleach baths reduce the need to use topical corticosteroids or antibiotic treatments.

For this treatment, regular strength (6 percent) plain bleach should be used to make the bleach bath. It is ideal to add half a cup of bleach to a bathtub of water while the bath is filling. A 10-minute soak is sufficient. Rinse thoroughly after bathing and gently pat the skin dry. Lukewarm water for bath is recommended and applying moisturizer immediately is advised. People suffering from breathing issues or asthma should avoid this treatment due to the strong fumes.

2. Choose products wisely
Most body washes and cleansers have detergents that provide soapy lather which dries out the skin and is hard on people with eczema. Due to its alkalinity, bar soaps can be harsh on the skin. People suffering from this condition should try using a gentle lather and fragrance-free cleanser. Products with rough particles for exfoliating or scrubbing, which further irritate the skin, should be avoided.

3. Opt for products for sensitive skin
Switching over to a gentler fragrance or color-free laundry detergent has helped to improve symptoms in some patients. Refrain from using fabric softeners as they often contain fragrances that linger on the clothes and the chemicals in it can cause skin irritation.

4. Beware of hot or cold weather
Eczema symptoms worsen while sitting next to a fireplace or near a furnace during cold winter days. The hot dry air further dries out the skin and aggravates the itchiness of the skin. Always keep the skin covered during cold temperatures. It is ideal to wrap up in cold weather.