13 Proven Natural Eczema Treatments and 5 That Might Make It Worse

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed patches of skin. It can be frustrating to manage, and while conventional treatments such as corticosteroids are commonly prescribed, many individuals seek natural remedies to soothe their symptoms. However, not all natural remedies are created equal. In this article, we'll explore 13 natural remedies that may help manage eczema and highlight five that you might want to skip.

1. Coconut Oil

Why It Works: Coconut oil is a popular natural remedy for eczema due to its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. It contains lauric acid, a type of fatty acid that has been shown to reduce inflammation and fight harmful bacteria on the skin. Applying coconut oil to the affected areas can help lock in moisture and prevent the skin from drying out.

How to Use: Apply virgin or cold-pressed coconut oil directly to the eczema patches two to three times daily, particularly after bathing when the skin is still damp. This helps to seal in moisture and create a protective barrier.

Trusted Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5796020/

2. Colloidal Oatmeal

Why It Works: Colloidal oatmeal has been used for centuries to treat skin conditions, including eczema. It is made from finely ground oats and has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and moisturizing properties. Colloidal oatmeal can help relieve itching and soothe irritated skin.

How to Use: Add a cup of colloidal oatmeal to a lukewarm bath and soak for 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can apply oatmeal-based creams to the affected areas.

Trusted Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6130261/

3. Honey

Why It Works: Honey is renowned for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potential natural remedy for eczema. It can help prevent infections in broken skin and speed up the healing process.

How to Use: Apply a thin layer of raw, organic honey to the affected areas and cover with a bandage. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.

Trusted Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3941901/

4. Aloe Vera

Why It Works: Aloe vera is well-known for its soothing and healing properties. It can help reduce the inflammation associated with eczema and moisturize the skin.

How to Use: Apply pure aloe vera gel directly to the affected skin. It’s best to use aloe vera from a fresh leaf or a product with a high concentration of aloe vera.

Trusted Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2763764/

5. Tea Tree Oil

Why It Works: Tea tree oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for managing eczema. It helps reduce skin inflammation and prevents infections due to scratching.

How to Use: Dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, before applying it to the skin. Use a 5% concentration (5 drops of tea tree oil per teaspoon of carrier oil). Apply it once or twice daily.

Trusted Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5435909/

6. Apple Cider Vinegar

Why It Works: Apple cider vinegar has natural antiseptic properties and can help restore the skin’s natural acidity levels, which may be disrupted in eczema.

How to Use: Dilute one part apple cider vinegar with one part water. Apply it to the affected areas using a cotton ball, or add it to your bath water. Be sure to rinse it off after 10-15 minutes.

Trusted Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5949565/

7. Chamomile

Why It Works: Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, making it a potential remedy for eczema symptoms. It can help reduce itching and redness.

How to Use: Apply chamomile essential oil diluted in a carrier oil, or use chamomile creams on the affected areas. Chamomile tea compresses can also be effective.

Trusted Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2995283/

8. Calendula

Why It Works: Calendula is a plant with anti-inflammatory and healing properties. It is often used in creams and ointments to soothe irritated skin and speed up healing.

How to Use: Apply calendula cream or ointment directly to the affected areas two to three times daily.

Trusted Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5817158/

9. Sunflower Oil

Why It Works: Sunflower oil is rich in vitamins A and E, which are essential for skin health. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and helps to improve the skin’s barrier function.

How to Use: Apply cold-pressed sunflower oil directly to the skin, particularly after bathing, to help lock in moisture.

Trusted Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5796020/

10. Turmeric

Why It Works: Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can help reduce the redness and irritation associated with eczema.

How to Use: Mix turmeric powder with water or honey to create a paste, and apply it to the affected areas. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off.

Trusted Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5664031/

11. Witch Hazel

Why It Works: Witch hazel has astringent properties that can help reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin. It is particularly useful for managing the itchiness associated with eczema.

How to Use: Apply witch hazel extract to the affected areas using a cotton ball, once or twice daily.

Trusted Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3214789/

12. Licorice Root

Why It Works: Licorice root has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce eczema symptoms like itching and redness.

How to Use: Apply licorice root extract or cream to the affected areas twice daily.

Trusted Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5376429/

13. Probiotics

Why It Works: Probiotics can help balance the gut microbiome, which is increasingly linked to skin health. Certain strains of probiotics have been shown to reduce the severity of eczema symptoms.

How to Use: Incorporate probiotic-rich foods into your diet, such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, or consider taking a probiotic supplement.

Trusted Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5651213/

5 Natural Remedies to Skip

1. Essential Oils (Undiluted)

Why to Skip: While some essential oils can be beneficial when diluted, applying them directly to the skin can cause irritation and worsen eczema. Always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil before application.

Trusted Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5435909/

2. Vinegar Soaks

Why to Skip: Although apple cider vinegar can be helpful when diluted, soaking your skin in undiluted vinegar can cause burns and exacerbate eczema symptoms.

Trusted Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5949565/

3. Raw Milk

Why to Skip: Raw milk is sometimes suggested as a natural remedy for eczema due to its probiotics. However, raw milk can contain harmful bacteria that may lead to infections, particularly on broken skin.

Trusted Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3273339/

4. Lemon Juice

Why to Skip: Lemon juice is highly acidic and can irritate the skin, making eczema symptoms worse. It can also cause burning and stinging on inflamed skin.

Trusted Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4432677/

5. Baking Soda

Why to Skip: Baking soda can alter the pH of the skin, disrupting its natural barrier function. This can lead to increased dryness and irritation, exacerbating eczema.

Trusted Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5849434/

Conclusion

Managing eczema with natural remedies can be effective, but it's essential to choose treatments that are backed by scientific evidence and to avoid those that might do more harm than good. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment, especially if you have severe eczema or other underlying health conditions.