Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a common skin condition, affecting approximately 17% of Canadians. While there is no cure, most cases can be controlled with a personalized skin care plan, which may include prescription medications, moisturizing creams, and strategies to eliminate triggers.
However, many common medications for eczema, such as corticosteroids, can have unwanted side effects, including high blood pressure, weight gain, and mood changes.
Creating a natural skincare program can help manage eczema symptoms and reduce your reliance on potentially harmful medications.
Oatmeal Baths
If you have extensive eczema over large areas of your body, oatmeal baths can provide relief from itching and dryness. Colloidal oatmeal (oats ground into a fine powder that dissolves in water) has anti-inflammatory properties to reduce redness. It is also an emollient, so it traps moisture against the skin and creates a layer of hydrating barrier protection.
To make an oatmeal bath, fill the tub with lukewarm (not hot) water and add 1 cup of finely ground oatmeal, stirring gently to release the starch. Soak in the bathtub for 15-20 minutes, then rinse your body with clean water. Pat your skin gently with a towel to dry, and follow with a rich moisturizer like FaceDoctor Beauty Cream.
Sea Buckthorn Oil
Detergents and surfactants found in common skincare products can trigger an eczema flare-up. But avoiding baths or showers can cause eczema lesions to become infected due to bacteria on your skin like Staphylococcus aureus.
It is crucial to keep your eczema-prone skin clean and hydrated. A soap containing sea buckthorn oil can support your skin’s health while providing optimal hydration. Sea buckthorn oil contains omega fatty acids and antioxidants to promote healing and collagen production.
Dietary Changes
Many foods in the modern diet cause inflammation, which can trigger eczema symptoms. Dairy, wheat, eggs, and soy are some common problematic foods for people with eczema. Consult your primary care physician about an elimination diet to determine if any food groups flare up your eczema.
You can also increase your consumption of anti-inflammatory foods like fish, legumes, and leafy green vegetables to help control redness and itching.
Protect Eczema-Prone Skin with FaceDoctor
FaceDoctor skincare products are formulated with natural ingredients like sea buckthorn oil, aloe vera, and coconut oil to support your skin and reduce the symptoms of eczema. Explore our range today.
