Monsoon season is here and our skin needs extra attention, especially those with skin conditions like eczema. It is a chronic condition that causes dry, inflamed, and itchy skin. While the symptoms of eczema can flare up during any time of the season, the monsoon weather makes it even harder. It usually happens because the skin barrier is weakened during this season. While the best way to deal with it is by seeking professional help, some home remedies for eczema may help soothe the symptoms. Plus, they are easy on the pocket but big on the results.

What is eczema?

Eczema or atopic dermatitis is a common chronic skin disorder which can result in recurring infections if left untreated. It makes your skin dry, itchy, and inflamed. It appears as red, scaly patches or bumps, and it can flare up sometimes, according to a study published in the StatPearls Journal. Eczema is not contagious and there is not a cure, but there are home remedies that can help you manage the itchiness and discomfort. It is especially common in young children but can affect people of all ages.

What are the causes of eczema?

The exact cause of eczema is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors, as explained by dermatologist Dr DM Mahajan. Common causes include:

1. Genetics

If you have a family history of eczema, you are more likely to develop it. People with eczema also tend to have a weakened skin barrier, which makes it harder to retain moisture and protect itself from irritants.

2. Other factors

Factors like soaps, detergents, pollen, pet dander, microbial infections such as bacteria, viruses, and climate can trigger or exacerbate eczema.

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What are the symptoms of eczema?

As per the Journal of American Medical Association, symptoms can vary widely, but typically include:

• Dry and sensitive skin
• Intense itching, which may get worse at night
• Red or brownish-grey patches
• Small, raised bumps that may leak fluid and crust over when scratched
• Thickened, cracked, or scaly skin

Also Read: Everything you need to know about eczema

5 best home remedies for eczema

Symptoms of eczema can be managed with some home remedies, including:

1. Aloe vera gel

Aloe vera gel is derived from the leaves of aloe plants. It contains antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory effects. Aloe vera gel has long been used to treat a wide range of ailments, such as lichen planus, oesophagitis, sunburn or radiation-related dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis, found a study published in the Journal of Pre-Clinical and Clinical Research.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel

Method:

• Gently apply aloe vera gel to your affected area.
• Massage until it gets dissolved into the skin.

Aloe vera gel can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, especially in individuals with sensitive skin

Side effects: Aloe vera gel can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, especially in individuals with sensitive skin. Thus, it is advisable to do a patch test before applying on the skin.

2. Coconut oil

Coconut oil has been used as a moisturiser for ages by people in the tropical region. It acts as an emollient and anti-inflammatory properties which may help manage atopic dermatitis symptoms, according to a study published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine.

Ingredients:

Method:

• Gently massage the coconut oil in the affected area.
• Massage it until it gets completely dissolved.

Side effects: Coconut oil can cause allergic reactions in some people, especially those with tree nut allergies. However, more research is needed to prove the claim. Also, it is always advisable to do a patch test before applying coconut oil on the skin.

3. Colloidal oatmeal

Colloidal oatmeal is finely ground oatmeal mixed with a lotion, cream or other skincare products. It is used topically to treat a variety of skin problems. Colloidal oatmeal can also be a good remedy for eczema. A 2020 study published in the Journal of Drugs of Dermatology indicated that a colloidal oat cream performed better than a regular moisturiser for eczema patients. The group who got 1 percent colloidal oat cream experienced a 51 percent improvement in the severity of their eczema symptoms.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of oatmeal powder
• 1 tablespoon of rose water

Method:

• Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
• Gently apply the mixture to the affected area.
• Leave it for 10-15 minutes.
• Wash it off with running water.

Side effects: Oatmeal can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some cases, especially in people with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. It is best to check with your doctor and do a patch test before adding it to your skincare routine.

Also Read: My mom says using oatmeal can treat skin allergies and more

4. Honey

Honey is a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory substance that has been used to treat wounds for generations, as found in a study published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine. It is also believed that honey can help to soothe your skin from eczema symptoms. However, more research is needed to prove the claim.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 1 tablespoon of yoghurt

Method:

• Mix all the ingredients in a bowl.
• Gently apply the mixture to the skin.
• Leave the mixture for 10-15 minutes.
• Wash it off with running water.

Side effects: Honey is safe to use but can cause irritation if you have sensitive skin. It is important to do a patch test before applying it to the skin.

5. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is extracted from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree leaves. People use this oil to treat skin conditions such as eczema. According to a 2012 study published in the International Journal of Dermatology, the oil contains anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and wound-healing effects. However, it is unknown whether it has a direct effect on reducing eczema symptoms or not.

Ingredients:

Method:

• Add a few drops of tea tree oil in a cotton ball.
• Gently apply the tea tree oil to the affected area.
• Let it sit for the skin.

Side effects: Tea tree oil can cause skin irritation or interact with medications like blood thinners and diabetes medications. Always, consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating it in your skincare routine.

Keep this in mind!

Honey, coconut oil, colloidal oatmeal, and tea tree oil are all effective home remedies for eczema. While they may alleviate itching, dryness, and irritation, they will not treat eczema. If the symptoms worsen, contact your doctor immediately. Also, consult with your doctor before using any of the home remedies for eczema mentioned above.