For the millions of people who suffer from eczema, sometimes the cure is as bad as the disease itself. Quite often prescription creams and ointments include substances that are harmful to the skin, and make the problem worse rather than better. One ingredient that can be quite harmful to your skin is sodium laurel sulphate (SLS), get rid of this as soon as possible.
Read your labels! Quite often changing laundry detergent, shampoo, and soap can make a big difference. Avoid tight and itchy clothing whenever possible, think natural, light fibers like cotton. Some people find relief from the itching with Benadryl, use caution as this medication can also make you quite drowsy.
Clean the area with a hypoallergenic soap every day, moisturize with rich natural lotions such as cocoa butter, coconut oil, olive oil, and aloe vera. Some people say that you should not put anything on your skin you wouldn’t put in your mouth, good rule of thumb for people with many allergies and skin irritants.
Taking an omega 3,6,9 supplement can be very beneficial, as many with eczema have a fatty acid deficiency. Vitamins C, D, and E are antioxidants that also produce great benefits.
Giving up cow’s milk is helpful to many, as cow milk is a frequent irritant. Try goat’s milk, soy, or almond milk instead.
Keep a journal of what you are using and eating before a breakout, as this can help establish patterns and avoid triggers. Eczema is easier to control than cure, so avoid allergens whenever possible.
Sources: http://www.permaculture.co.uk/readers-solutions/5-natural-cures-eczema
http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/eczema/eczema_home_treatment
