What is Eczema?

Atopic Dermatitis, also known as eczema, is an itchy eruption of the skin. It’s a chronic (long lasting) condition which is or may be accompanied by asthma or hay fever. Eczema is often seen in infants and children, but it can continue well into adulthood or appear later in life.

Affected areas

Although eczema may appear virtually in any area of the body, it usually involves skin behind the knees and on the arms. Eczema tends to flare periodically and then subside for a time, even for up to several years. The exact cause of eczema is still unknown, but it may result from a malfunction in the body’s immune system.

Eczema Home Remedies

Eczema treatments may be as easy as changing your laundry detergent or as difficult as changing jobs or moving to a new climate. Removing whatever is causing the allergic reaction is the easiest and most effective treatment.

Eczema home remedy #1: Prevent dry skin by taking warm (not hot) showers instead of baths. Use mild soap or body cleanser. Dry yourself carefully and apply moisturizing skin lotions all over your body. Avoid lotions with fragrances or other irritating substances.

Eczema home remedy #2:  Avoid wearing tight-fitting, scratchy or rough clothing.

Eczema home remedy #3: Avoid scratching the rash. If you can’t stop yourself from scratching, cover the affected area with a dressing. Wear gloves at night to minimize skin damage from scratching.

Eczema home remedy #4: Anything that causes sweating can irritate the rash. Avoid strenuous exercises during an eczema flare.

Eczema home remedy #5: If the allergy causing agent cannot be removed or identified, the next step is to lessen the allergic inflammatory response:

• Apply a nonprescription steroid cream (hydrocortisone) along with anti-itching lotion (menthol/camphor such as calamine). The cream must be applied as often as possible without skipping days until the rash is gone.
• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) in pill form may be taken for the itching – Caution: don’t take this medication if you need to drive a car or operate machinery as this will induce sleepiness.
• Clean the affected area with hypoallergenic soap every day. Apply lubricating cream or lotion after washing.

Eczema home remedy #6: Avoid physical and mental stress. Eating right, light activity and right sleep will help you stay healthy and avoid eczema flares.

Do not expect a quick response when doing these eczema home cures. Eczema is easier to control than cure.