What Is Eczema?
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is an inflammatory skin condition that typically presents as rashes that appear on dry skin. It can appear anywhere on the body but most commonly affects the face, backs of the knees, elbows, and scalp. Eczema can cause discomfort, itching, and pain and, in severe cases, can cause permanent scarring.
Eczema is a skin disease that only affects about 2% of the population, but it’s a condition that affects people of all ages, from babies to the elderly. Eczema involves dry, red, flaky skin that can appear on any part of your body, including your face. Your skin will react to irritants, including soaps, detergents, fragrances, and other chemicals used in cosmetics or soaps. Fortunately, nowadays one can find effective medications in the market such as an eczema relief cream or other topicals that can help people get rid of their eczema problem. However, it might be essential to consult a skin doctor before using creams or other supplements to cure eczema.
While mild eczema can often be managed with daily moisturizers and over-the-counter creams, more severe cases may require stronger prescription medications. Topical corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors are frequently prescribed to reduce inflammation and itch. For patients who do not find sufficient relief from topical agents, systemic oral medications may be considered.
In recent years, certain atopic dermatitis treatments have emerged as an option for moderate-to-severe eczema. While these options show promise for managing severe eczema, they require close consultation with a dermatologist to determine appropriateness and monitor for potential side effects. Careful consideration of treatment options allows doctors and patients to develop an integrated plan that provides the best possible relief.
Here Are Some Supplements That Provides Relief During Eczema
- Fish oil – Fish oil supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids are proven to help improve eczema symptoms. The omega-3s found in fish oil can reduce inflammation in the body, help repair damaged skin tissue, and reduce skin dryness and itchiness.
- Vitamin D – The human body makes Vitamin D during exposure to sunlight. However, not all people get adequate sunlight exposure, especially in the winter, and we may need to supplement. Vitamin D is the best natural treatment for eczema. If you suffer from eczema, you probably know just what a miserable condition is.
- Vitamin E – Vitamin E is an anti-oxidant that has long been used as a remedy for eczema by doctors around the world. It helps reduce inflammation and itching and is especially helpful when applied to the skin.
- Zinc – Zinc is a trace mineral that plays a role in a number of body functions. It regulates cell growth and division, assists the immune system, supports eye health, and plays a role in cardiovascular health. For people who suffer from eczema, zinc supplements have been scientifically proven to reduce the severity of eczema symptoms.
- Melatonin – Melatonin aids in the treatment of multiple skin conditions by inducing skin regeneration and blocking inflammation. It’s sometimes recommended as a treatment for eczema since studies have found it an effective drug for decreasing itching and inflammation. Melatonin is available in supplement form and is usually prescribed in low doses, so talk to your doctor before starting a regimen.
- CBD – CBD oil for treating eczema, and some people may have even purchased the oil thinking it would cure their condition. The truth is that CBD has been shown in scientific studies to help some people who have eczema, but CBD is not a cure-all, and treatment may not be successful for everyone. This is why it is advisable to consult an experienced physician before going for an alternate medication. That way, the doctor can suggest the best way to take CBD products so that it can be beneficial in treating the ailment.
Here Are the Natural Treatments for Having an Eczema
- Aloe Vera – Aloe vera contains over 100 different compounds, many of which have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is one such therapy some people use to treat skin conditions, including eczema. ACV is most commonly known for its digestive benefits, but it has some impressive health benefits beyond digestion, too. ACV may help treat eczema and psoriasis and may help balance the composition of the skin’s microbiome.
- Manuka Honey – Manuka Honey is a natural remedy used to treat eczema and other skin conditions. It is known to possess anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin. Additionally, manuka honey benefits the skin by restoring and protecting it.
- Petroleum Jelly – Petroleum jelly (also known as petrolatum) is a colorless, odorless, thick liquid petroleum jelly used primarily as a lubricant. While petroleum jelly has many uses, including as a home remedy for treating eczema, scientific evidence to support its effectiveness is scarce.
- Coconut Oil – Coconut oil has become a popular natural treatment for people with eczema, not to be confused with hydrogenated oil. Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which is medically classified as a medium-chain triglyceride while technically not a fatty acid. This means that coconut oil’s molecular structure is shorter than a traditional fat like butter or lard, making it a more efficient energy source for the body.
