Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, affects an estimated 31.6 million people in the United States, or about 10.1% of the population. This inflammatory condition can cause dry, cracked, and itchy skin, and it is traditionally treated with medications. However, if you have atopic dermatitis and want to avoid side effects associated with medication use, many promising at-home treatments may help you find relief.
If you are living with atopic dermatitis, try one or more of the following natural remedies that may reduce your flares and symptoms.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal, specifically colloidal oatmeal, is an antioxidant with the ability to improve inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema. Colloidal oatmeal is shown to reduce severe symptoms of atopic dermatitis—specifically itching.
Pure colloidal oatmeal in powder form is available from many health food stores and online retailers. Add it directly to a warm bath, and soak for several minutes to relieve your symptoms.
Honey
Honey is another natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent with the ability to heal wounds, strengthen the immune system, and reduce symptoms of atopic dermatitis.
When buying honey for the treatment of eczema, look specifically for pure Manuka honey, which studies have shown is effective at treating and healing lesions. Then, apply the honey directly to the lesion, and to any other areas of skin affected by eczema.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is an at-home remedy staple shown promising at treating a wide variety of health conditions, including atopic dermatitis. Applying ACV directly to atopic dermatitis can help balance the pH level of your skin and destroy bacteria that could enter open lesions and increase your risk for infections.
Add a few cups of ACV to a warm bath and soak for between 15 and 20 minutes. Or, mix one tablespoon of ACV with one cup of water, soak up the solution using a piece of cotton or gauze, and then apply it to your skin for up to three hours.
Aloe Vera
Pure aloe vera has long been used to treat inflammatory skin conditions. It is widely known for its ability to reduce pain and peeling caused by sunburn. It has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that can soothe the skin and promote the healing of wounds and lesions.
Break a piece of pure aloe vera from the plant and then gently rub its gel onto the parts of your skin affected by atopic dermatitis. If buying a commercial aloe vera solution, buy only pure aloe vera that lacks extra ingredients including alcohol, fragrances, and dyes. These ingredients can further irritate your skin and increase the risk for infection if they enter an open wound.
Stress Management
Stress can spike your body’s levels of a stress hormone called cortisol. If you suffer from chronic stress, high levels of cortisol can upset your hormonal balance to trigger a wide range of health issues, including eczema.
If you frequently deal with stress, work on finding effective ways to manage it. Methods you can try to reduce stress include exercising regularly, taking a warm relaxing bath (preferably with colloidal oatmeal or ACV), and listening to soft, soothing music. Deep breathing, yoga, and meditation are other good ways to reduce and manage stress naturally.
Nutrition
Many foods—especially fruits and vegetables—have natural antioxidative properties that can reduce symptoms of inflammatory skin conditions like atopic dermatitis. Eating a higher amount of these foods can reduce the number of eczema flares you experience, as well as the severity of your symptoms.
Reduce your intake of processed foods that come in boxes, cans, and other packaging, such as frozen pizzas, TV dinners, potato chips, and hot dogs. Start eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and fish.
Many herbs and spices also have anti-inflammatory properties that can clear your skin and reduce symptoms of atopic dermatitis. Turmeric and cinnamon are some of the best seasonings you can use to escape the severity of eczema.
Natural Fabrics
Synthetic fabrics like nylon, polyester, and rayon are exposed to a large number of toxic chemicals during the manufacturing process. These fabrics can irritate your skin to worsen symptoms of atopic dermatitis.
Stick to natural, breathable materials that feel more comfortable against your skin, and that allow it to breathe. Experts recommend cotton, bamboo, and silk—all of which are environmentally friendly and favored among people who are living with eczema.
Consult with your healthcare provider before starting any at-home treatment for atopic dermatitis. Your provider can review your medical history and check to see whether you are using any medications that can interact with any of the above treatments. In some instances, you may be referred to a dermatologist who can help you find an eczema treatment that works best for you.
Resource Links
- “Eczema Stats” via National Eczema Association
- “The Efficacy of Colloidal Oatmeal Cream 1% as Add-on Therapy in the Management of Chronic Irritant Hand Eczema: A Double-Blind Study” via Dovepress
- “Honey is potentially effective in the treatment of atopic dermatitis: Clinical and mechanistic studies” via Immunity, Inflammation, and Disease
- “Psychoneuroimmunology of Psychological Stress and Atopic Dermatitis: Pathophysiologic and Therapeutic Updates” via Acta Dermato-Venereologica
- “Clothing and eczema” via Natural Eczema Society