Eczema: Home Remedies

Eczema, otherwise known as atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition which symptoms include dry, itchy, red and flaky skin. The actual cause is not known, but it is activated by the immune system and related to allergic reactions.

Corticosteroid creams are good home remedies for getting eczema under control. Typically, a flare-up can be minimized by using a mild hydrocortisone cream. There are several strengths to choose from so you can increase the percentage, but if the condition gets worse, consult your physician.

Aggravated forms of eczema are caused by strong allergic responses to external agents. Moisturizers spare water loss, keeping water in the skin where it is needed, helping to keep contagions out. Creams and ointments are indispensable home remedies for eczema.

Atopic eczema, the most common type, is linked with hay fever and asthma. Even though the tendency to develop atopic eczema is inherited, it is strongly influenced by environmental elements. Atopic eczema affects young children and usually clears up by the time they reach their teens, but some suffer with it for years.

Eczema home remedies can reduce flare-ups which include red, itchy skin, moist oozing, and possible swelling. The most commonly affected areas are skin creases, back of the knees, front of the elbows, and the neck.

Flare-ups can be caused by any number of things from animal fur to pollen, moisture in the air, food allergies, cleaning products and even common house dust. While there is no cure for eczema, there are home remedy products to help treat it by healing the skin and keeping it healthy without depending on prescription medication.

One of the best ways to avoid flare-ups is to keep your hands clean and your nails short. If infection is suspected, talk to your doctor immediately as it can spread quickly.

Taking a bath before bedtime using lots of moisturizers is a good home remedy practice that can also help reduce nighttime itching. There are many good over-the-counter products today for the treatment of eczema. Those allergic to peanuts should consult with the pharmacist as some products contain peanut oil.