Eczema is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterised by an itchy, red rash that can be painful and uncomfortable. While there are several medical treatments available for eczema, many people seek natural remedies to manage their symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
Natural remedies can be effective in reducing inflammation, relieving itching, and improving skin hydration. In this article, we will explore some natural ways to manage eczema flare-ups, including lifestyle changes and home remedies that may help alleviate symptoms and improve overall skin health.
Natural Lifestyle Suggestions:
Moisturising affected areas at least twice a day is important for managing eczema as dry skin is both a symptom and cause. Coconut oil is a natural moisturiser that also has antibacterial, anti-fungal, and antimicrobial properties, which can provide relief and speed up the healing process.
Psychological factors can also contribute to eczema, and techniques like hypnosis, mindfulness meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, and cognitive-behavioural therapy may help alleviate symptoms during a flare-up and prevent future ones.
Taking sea salt baths can improve skin hydration, enhance skin barrier function, reduce inflammation, and relieve redness and roughness. However, it’s important to use warm water and avoid high and low temperatures that can worsen eczema flares. Instead of rubbing the skin dry, pat it gently with a soft towel. Mungo Murphy Sea Soap is a product to try.
Phototherapy or light therapy can help reduce inflammation, relieve itching, increase vitamin D production, and fight bacteria on the skin. Even a small amount of sun exposure, about 10-15 minutes per day, can provide relief and speed up the healing process during an eczema flare-up.
Which foods should you cut out?
Additives: Additives and preservatives found in processed foods can harm gut health, potentially leading to eczema.
Allergens: Be cautious of foods that you are allergic to, such as gluten, dairy, shellfish, and peanuts. Testing options are available to help you identify your specific food triggers.
Inflammatory fats: Processed oils found in margarines and fried food can hinder the absorption of essential fats crucial for healing and be harmful to skin health.
Refined sugar: Consuming excess sugar can increase inflammation, reduce immune function, disrupt sleep, and affect the balance of gut bacteria, potentially leading to eczema.
Dairy: Dairy products may trigger eczema outbreaks in those who are allergic to dairy or lactose intolerant because they may not be able to digest certain proteins from dairy products, leading to an inflammatory response that can trigger eczema symptoms. Fermented dairy products may be better tolerated.
In conclusion, eczema can be a challenging condition to manage, but there are many natural ways to alleviate its symptoms and prevent flare-ups. Making lifestyle changes such as avoiding triggers and adopting a healthy diet can help manage eczema. It’s important to note that while natural remedies can be effective, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before trying any new treatment. With patience and persistence, it is possible to manage eczema naturally and improve overall skin health.
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