Atopic Dermatitis, also generally known as Eczema, is a pretty common skin disease that is often seen in people all across the age group. It is non-communicable in nature and is basically an inflammatory skin disease. It’s a condition where the skin of the affected individual becomes dry and patchy at certain places. While it’s difficult to pin-point the exact cause of Eczema, there are various triggers that can be the reason behind it, some of which include exposure to allergens like peanuts, pollen etc. and skin irritants like soap, fabric, detergent etc.
The severity of Atopic Dermatitis varies from person to person and the symptoms also differ accordingly. Eczema among children is mostly observed in the form of itchy rashes on their face, scalp and legs. But for children it’s seen at the bend of their elbow, on their neck or their wrists and ankles. The adults usually notice rashes on their face, back of their knees, arms and feet.
Although the symptoms of Eczema are manageable, it is strongly advised to go for a doctor consultation when the patient might feel that the symptoms are getting worse or any signs of infection like fever, redness, warmth or blisters are showing up. Eczema is also a life-long condition for many people but its flare ups can be taken care of and brought down to a minimum. Apart from a doctor consultation and using the medication provided by them, there are also various tried and tested home remedies for atopic dermatitis available to use. But, with caution.
8 Home Remedies for Dry Skin:
Cold Compress: Using a cold compress on the red, sensitive skin can help bring down the itchiness and lessen the effects of symptoms for a while. Applying a wet wrap, made by soaking a gauze in warm water, on the affected area can make a huge difference, especially when the itching is out of control.
Aloe Vera Gel: Aloe Vera Gel, procured from the leaves of the aloe vera plant is extremely rich with healing properties and is used for various skin ailments, and treating atopic dermatitis is one of them. There are various antibacterial, wound healing, immune system-boosting properties present in that gel and using that on the problematic area. Although, it is advised to do a test patch first.
Coconut Oil: Various studies have found that the use of extra-virgin coconut oil in the cases of eczema have improved its symptoms significantly. Coconut oil has a lot of healing properties and the application of the same on one’s itchy/flaky skin has the ability to aid it back to its normal state. The oil adds moisture to the skin and prevents it from drying out.
Honey: The use of honey to treat wounds and heal burns has been done for centuries now, as it has been said that honey is in fact a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent and modern medicine supports the idea. Experts have found that honey naturally heals the skin and moisturizes it, which works wonders for eczema symptoms one might harbor.
Oatmeal bath: Colloidal Oatmeal baths are highly recommended to eczema patients as it has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory properties present in it, which results in improved roughness, scaling, skin dryness etc. Soaking in a warm bath with some colloidal oatmeal powder in it really works a lot in many eczema cases, due to the moisture it provides to the skin. Those suffering from gluten/oats allergy are advised to not use this remedy.
Essential Oils: Using essential oils like tea tree oil, lavender oil, chamomile oil etc. for controlling eczema symptoms is also a great idea. These essential oils have a very soothing effect on the skin and are often used in diluted form rather than just applying them straight.
Moisturize: Moisturizing is definitely the main thing to be done when suffering from eczema. It is necessary to prevent the skin from getting too dry as it might lead to rashes, redness, scaly skin, discoloration etc. Using a doctor recommended moisturizer or one or more home remedies mentioned above can do the job.
Infrequent bathing: Taking care of personal hygiene is definitely a must when suffering from eczema but to an extent. Children are advised to take maximum two baths a week while adults are told to take short baths everyday and that too with lukewarm water.
Using one or more of these home remedies can really help with eczema, as long as it’s done with proper knowledge and in a controlled manner.