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nummular eczema treatment

Best Natural Body Wash for Eczema

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By Laura Dolgy (bio below)

As an eczema sufferer, you probably already know how difficult it can be to find a natural body wash that does not exacerbate your eczema symptoms. There are so many different types of body washes on the market, but what should you keep in mind when purchasing your next body wash?

This week, we discuss the best natural body wash for eczema, as well as potentially toxic ingredients to avoid.

Please keep in mind that although these treatments can relieve eczema, we are in no way medical professionals. If you’re experiencing severe eczema symptoms like an infection, it is best to seek medical advice immediately.

 

The Best Natural Body Wash For Eczema

It’s difficult to find body washes that are sensitive enough for eczema prone skin, when there are so many variations on the market. It seems that today, every body wash incorporates some form of “natural” ingredients, but how do you really know when a product is safe for your eczema prone skin?

We’re here to help! These natural body washes are the perfect alternatives to products on the market that may include harsh chemicals, parabens and more.

Emily Skin Soothers Liquid Soap Soother

This natural body wash for eczema is a great choice as it’s made specifically with Chinese herbs that are both rich and moisturizing, so it not only cleans, but treats the skin as well. This liquid soap will also not strip skin of moisture like many other harsh body soaps on the market.

Free of artificial colors, made from certified sustainable palm oil, GMO free and safe for babies, this body wash is our top pick for anyone with eczema. In fact – the creator of Emily Skin Soothers is an acupuncturist and made this soap (and his other products) to calm his own child’s eczema when she was an infant.

Use this therapeutic soap either in the shower or bath, but always avoid hot water with any body wash.  Lathering gently with lukewarm water is always best for eczema – hot water can dry out and further irritate your skin.

Castille Soap

If you are looking for a body wash that is super gentle, super simple and that won’t irritate skin further, try a liquid castille soap like Cove’s Castille Soap that includes Organic Argan, Hemp and Jojoba oils. Not only is it packed with antioxidants, minerals and vitamins, but the olive oil offers a soothing and moisturizing body wash.

Body Wash for Babies and Toddlers

Are you searching for a gentle cleanser specifically for your little one? All the body washes and soaps in this soap are safe for babies, but sometimes there is a reassurance in using something made specifically with babies in mind. If that sounds familiar, then make sure to check out this thinkbaby Body Wash that also doubles up as a shampoo. This wash is free of parabens as well as other harmful ingredients and is also tear free! It will keep your little one’s skin clean without further irritation.

 

 

What Types of Body Washes to Avoid

As previously mentioned, there are several body washes on the market that should be avoided when suffering from eczema. These are washes that you can find either at the grocery store or pharmacy and claim to be natural when in fact they use a variety of harsh and possibly dangerous chemicals.

Some ingredients you should always avoid when searching for body washes are Diethanolamine, Monoethanolamine and Triethanolamine, commonly referred to as DEAs. These harmful ingredients are usually added to either creamy or sudsy soaps and have been classified as causing potential harm to one’s health from prolonged exposure.

It’s also important to try and stay away from fragrances or dyes, as these chemicals can several exacerbate eczema.

For other ingredients to avoid in body washes and other skin care products, make sure to check out our blog post: 13 Skincare Ingredients & Eczema Irritants You Need to Avoid Right Now.

Alternatives to Body Washes

Pine Tar Soap

Another great body wash for eczema is this Pine Tar Soap that is an excellent treatment for eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. Not only is pine tar known for being wound healing with its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, but both coal tar (toxic, stay away!) and pine tar have been shown to slow down the rapid growth of skin cells and restore the skin’s appearance. It is also great at reducing inflammation, itching and scaling for psoriasis.

Similarly to the Emily Skin Soothers soaps, this Pine Tar Soap is GMO free. It is also made with the highest grade kiln burned pine tar, does not contain creosote and handcrafted in the USA.

Like other body soaps, make sure to use it with lukewarm water, so that your skin can really benefit from the soap’s rich ingredients.

Emily Skin Soothers Bar Soap For Eczema

For those that are not too fond of a liquid body wash, make sure to check out the Emily Skin Soothers’s bar soap equivalent to the body wash above, Emily’s Bar Soap for Eczema. This soap is perfect for cleaning in the shower or hand washing.

Similarly to the body wash, there’s no added color or fragrance, as well as no parabens or harmful ingredients.

Curious to learn more about gentle cleansing options, read our post What Is The Best Eczema Soap?

 

Looking for more information about eczema, check out our complete list of our most informational posts in Start Here for Eczema Relief.

 

What body washes do you use for your eczema? Share with us in the comments section below!

Bio: Laura is a contributor and content developer for It’s An Itchy Little World. She is in no way a medical professional. Her comments, suggestions, and reflections are not intended to replace any medical advice. Always seek the help of a medical professional before undertaking any diet or lifestyle changes. Please see It’s An Itchy Little World’s disclaimer for information about affiliate links and more.

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How to Stop Scratching Eczema At Night

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Eczema can be quite a nuisance to our daily lives. Between the itchiness, cracking and redness, you may feel like you want to hide under the covers all day. Then in the stillness of the night, the itching just seems worse and scratching just happens without thought.  So let’s talk about how to stop scratching eczema at night.

Have you ever woken up from intense itching or have subconsciously scratched your skin raw during your sleep? Does your little one whimper through the night, scratching at their skin until it bleeds? If so, then you’ll want to check out our blog post this week that discusses tips and recommendations for soothing you or your little one’s eczema scratching at night.

Please keep in mind that although these treatments can relieve eczema, we are in no way medical professionals. If you’re experiencing severe eczema symptoms like an infection, it is best to seek medical advice immediately.

Why Does Eczema Itch?

Prior to discussing tips on how to soothe the eczema itch, it’s important to understand where it comes from. According to Dr. Peter Lio, eczema is caused by a leaky skin barrier. (Read more about that here: What Causes Eczema? With Dr. Peter Lio). Once the skin is leaky, the barrier becomes more damaged, looses more water and in turn triggers an inflammation response. There is also a variety of other possible stimuli that can make eczema worse at night, but almost every eczema case is unique.

That being said, prior to soothing your overnight eczema itch, it’s important to understand what might be triggering your flare-ups to begin with. Are you allergic to certain foods or materials? Are you experiencing more stress than usual? These are all questions which are important to ask in order to get to the bottom of what causes your eczema itch.

Not sure what’s triggering your eczema? Make sure to check out our blog post What Triggers Eczema? With Dr. Peter Lio to discover a variety of triggers that may be causing you itchy eczema.

How to Stop Scratching Eczema at Night

Anti-Itch Moisturizer

If you’ve already identified your trigger (or have not) and are experiencing intense overnight itching, you’ll want to opt for an anti-itch natural eczema treatment. By applying a cream or balm that is meant for itchy skin, you can find much needed relief.

A wonderful anti-itch cream is Emily Skin Soothers for Itchy Eczema that contains olive oil, beeswax and carefully selected Chinese herbs to help you curb the need to scratch. This cream is known for soothing dry skin and calming itchy, red eczema and rashes.

Another great choice is the Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream – a thick, nourishing balm that also contains beeswax and olive oil. This cream is thick and provides moisturizing to even the driest and itchiest skin. An added benefit, it contains Manuka honey and Manuka oil which have anti-bacterial properties.

Lastly, this Itchy Skin Rash Treatment from Zi Zai Dermatology is an excellent emollient for both dry and itchy skin. With a combination of Chinese herbs, beeswax and olive oil, it targets the eczema itch at it’s root – dryness.

Scratch Mittens/Pajamas

Another great tool for soothing the overnight eczema itch are scratch mittens for both adults and children. Scratch mittens not only protect the skin from intense scratching, but can protect against certain allergens or irritants that may be triggering your eczema.

If your little one is suffering from daytime or overnight eczema itch, make sure to check out these ScratchMeNot Flip Mitten Sleeves for Babies and Children. These mittens have been a lifesaver for so many parents with little ones suffering from itchy eczema. They are easy to put on, stay put and best of all – the mittens fold open for play with the sleeves in place.

Another great option is pajamas that include anti-scratch mittens like this One-Piece Footed Pajama for Kids or these Scratch Mittens Pajama Top or Footed Pajama Pants for older children. These pajamas essentially prevent overnight scratching, which can help your child’s eczema heal and protect their skin from further irritation.

If you’re suffering from overnight itching yourself, then we strongly recommend the Comfymitt Top for Adults. This top includes closed, protective mittens, so that you do not subconsciously scratch yourself raw overnight. 

Wet/Dry Wraps

Have you looked into both wet and dry wrapping? They can work wonders on dry, itchy skin and when worn overnight can give you comfort all night long. Both these methods use a rich moisturizer mixed with bandages or wraps to allow the emollients to permeate the skin. With dry wraps, which is a bit easier and less messy, you wear a dry layer of clothing over the emollient for at least two hours, but hopefully overnight for better results. With wet wrapping, which is a bit more intense, but can provide quick results, you wear a layer of damp clothing over the eczema and a dry later on top of that. Many eczema sufferers have found relief with these methods.

If you’re interested in getting started, make sure to check out our Dry Wrapping and Wet Wrap Therapy blog posts for all the details. All you’ll need is an anti-itch moisturizer like one of the above, as well as wraps like these WrapESoothe Body Bands or Remedywear Eczema Sleeves that can be used on localized eczema like behind the knees or on the elbows. For more options like leggings for eczema on the legs or tops for chest or back eczema, take a look at this line from Remedywear, clothing for eczema with zinc, which works great for dry wrapping.

 

Non-Toxic Laundry Alternatives 

Lastly, if you think your eczema might be triggered by irritants or allergens, maybe take a look at what detergents you’re using – especially on those bed sheets! Many laundry detergents contain harmful, toxic ingredients that can be causing your eczema to itch, specifically during the night.

There are many wonderful natural laundry alternatives, such as this SmartKlean Laundry Ball that contains no added fragrances and is 100% hypoallergenic. Even if you don’t find you’re allergic to detergent ingredients, those same ingredients can be so harsh on the skin. Switching to a mineral ball like the one above or soap nuts can help reduce irritation.

Elimination Diet

If natural eczema treatments or therapy methods aren’t working, you may want to look inside your body to see if certain foods are causing your eczema to trigger. An elimination diet is a structured elimination test (that can be done with your doctor or naturopath) to determine what foods might be causing your eczema and itching at night. Many eczema sufferers have learned to cure their eczema, or at least improve it, just by changing their diet.

To read more about it, make sure to check out our post: Our Eczema Elimination Diet Success (How You Can Do it Too!).

 

How do you control your eczema scratching at night? Let us know in the comments below!

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How to Properly Exfoliate Eczema

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Eczema can be insanely itchy and sometimes – extremely painful, especially when you’re trying to wash it or exfoliate. Surprisingly, exfoliation is extremely beneficial for eczema skin. Not only does it remove dry and dead skin, but it can also allow natural eczema treatments to penetrate the affected area more effectively. This week, we take a look at how to exfoliate eczema skin, as well as what not to do!

Please keep in mind that although these treatments can relieve eczema, we are in no way medical professionals. If you’re experiencing severe eczema symptoms like an infection, it is best to seek medical advice immediately.

Does Exfoliation Help Eczema?

Due to sensitive and broken skin, exfoliating eczema can be tricky. Most people tend to think that exfoliation can cause eczema-ridden skin to become even more damaged or inflamed, but exfoliation is actually beneficial for eczema. Eczema exfoliation is extremely important because it cleans accumulated dried and dead skin cells that can actually exacerbate eczema.

How Should You Exfoliate Eczema?

Use A Gentle Soap

If you’re going to exfoliate your eczema, you need to first make sure that you are using a natural product that is gentle enough for your skin as well as moisturizing. Many eczema sufferers are aware that typical soaps end up stripping away moisture from the skin barrier. This Emily Skin Soothers Liquid Soap is a great alternative to typical cleansers on the market. This soap is full of natural Chinese Herbs and Olive oil, which keeps skin well moisturized and soft.

Alternatively, if you prefer a hard soap, check out both this Emily Skin Soothers Eczema Soap with Herbs which like its sister liquid soap, is full of healthy moisturizing ingredients like olive oil, avocado oil and shea butter. This Grass Fed Tallow Soap is also a wonderful alternative to harsher soaps with its minimal ingredients and fatty lather.

Use A Gentle Scrubbing Tool

Along with your natural eczema soap, you’ll want to opt for a gentle scrubbing tool. Because eczema prone skin is so sensitive, you’ll want to make sure to opt for a scrubbing tool that’s not too abrasive. A gentle brush, such as this one will help lift dead skin cells, while keeping skin safe. Alternatively, a silicone brush with small gentle bristles like this one, can be even better for skin that is inflamed and extremely sensitive.

Try a DIY Scrub

Instead of using a natural eczema soap and scrubbing tool, you can actually opt for a DIY natural scrub instead. There are many different scrubs you can find online that can be made with household products and ingredients.

One of our favorites has to be the Flawless Program’s DIY Sugar Scrub! This scrub combines coconut oil, sugar and baking soda – the perfect combo for flaky, crusty eczema. Not only does this scrub include an exfoliation (no brush needed), but also an antiseptic, a skin rejuvenator, and a moisturizer!

What Should You Not Do?

Although eczema exfoliation is a good idea, there are many things you should avoid when exfoliating. Make sure to check these out below before getting started!

Do NOT Exfoliate Every Day

It’s very important that exfoliation is kept to a minimum, especially when you suffer from eczema. Over exfoliation can actually lead to irritation and can strip moisture of the skin barrier.

Our recommendation: Keep eczema exfoliation down to every one or two weeks. This will allow skin to heal properly while eliminating dead skin cells that can cause further cracking and irritation.

Don’t Scrub!

Because eczema skin is so sensitive, it’s important to not scrub the area. Instead, try to make exfoliating your eczema as gentle as possible by pressing down on the area with gentle circles or sweeping dead skin, NOT scrubbing. Scrubbing will only cause further irritation and extend healing time.

Skip the Chemical Peels

It shouldn’t be a surprise that we’re adding this to our “what you should NOT do list.” Besides the fact that these peels use unhealthy chemicals or preservatives to exfoliate skin, they can also leave skin feeling worse than before. Not only can these peels eliminate needed moisture from the skin, but they can cause further irritation, inflammation and even infection.

Do NOT Exfoliate on Weeping, Oozing Eczema

If you’re experiencing weeping or oozing eczema, please DO NOT exfoliate. Eczema exfoliation is meant to help dry, thick eczema.

If you are suffering from weeping or oozing eczema, there are many other natural treatments that can provide relief. Make sure to check out these tips for Healing Weeping Eczema Naturally.

Post-Exfoliation Recommendations

Eczema exfoliation is only one step to healing your eczema. Post-exfoliation is just as important!

Moisturize

Because eczema prone skin lacks moisture, you’ll want to make sure to apply a rich, natural moisturizer to your skin after exfoliation. Not only will this keep skin healthy, but it will risk chances of inflammation and infection.

A great, thick moisturizer to use post-exfoliation is this Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream. Not only is it rich in emollients, but many of its ingredients are anti-bacterial as well.

Elimination Diet

Lastly, if eczema exfoliation does not seem to help your eczema heal, you might want to take a look at what you’re eating. Many eczema sufferers have found short term relief through natural eczema treatments and therapies, but for long term relief the best results are found by simply changing the diet.

This can be done through an elimination diet. An elimination diet is essentially removing certain foods from your diet for a specific time period and then reintroducing them slowly to determine which foods are causing a reaction. To read more about it, make sure to check out our post: Our Eczema Elimination Diet Success (How You Can Do it Too!).

Looking for more help with eczema? Check out our collection of essential reading in Start Here for Eczema Relief.

 

Do you exfoliate your eczema?

Let us know how in the comments below!

 

Bio: Laura is a contributor and content developer for It’s An Itchy Little World. She is in no way a medical professional. Her comments, suggestions, and reflections are not intended to replace any medical advice. Always seek the help of a medical professional before undertaking any diet or lifestyle changes. Please see It’s An Itchy Little World’s disclaimer for information about affiliate links and more.

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Eczema and Gut Health: A Connection Between Brain and Body

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Are you suffering from eczema and trying to understand eczema and gut health, as well as the connection between the brain and body? This week, Dr. Robin Miller author of HEALED: Health & Wellness for the 21st Century and medical reporter on NBC discusses the impact eczema has on the gut and how that can affect emotional health.

By Dr. Robin Miller (bio below)

What is the gut-brain connection?

The gut is considered by many to be the second brain. When there is distress in the gut, it affects the brain and conversely when someone is distressed it can affect the gut. We have all experienced “butterflies” in our stomach with nervousness and anxiety. In reverse, abdominal discomfort can cause anxiety and upset.  Migraine headaches often are accompanied by nausea and vomiting.  The connection is close and almost immediate.

One of the main reasons for this is the gut is lined with cells that look identical to brain cells when examined under a microscope and function with hormones that are also seen in the brain namely serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. This is called the enteric nervous system. It is two thin layers of more than 100 million nerve cells lining the gut from the esophagus to the rectum.

It controls digestion, swallowing, release of enzymes to break down food and helps with absorption of nutrients. Research is finding irritation in this system may actually trigger mood changes when the gut is unbalanced as in irritable bowel syndrome.

How does gut health impact someone with eczema? 

The gut bacteria or microbiome is where much of our immune system resides. In fact, it accounts for 80% of our immunity. An unhealthy gut exacerbates eczema, an autoimmune disease.  This is the eczema and gut health connection. When the microbiome is healthy, the walls of the gut are strong.  When it is unhealthy, the lining thins and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) leaks out and causes inflammation.  This can make the symptoms of eczema worse. In addition, overgrowth of unhealthy bacteria can cause worsening of inflammation.  In fact, when patients with the autoimmune disease rheumatoid arthritis are newly diagnosed, 75% are found to have the same type of gut bacteria. A similar correlation has been seen in eczema with a bacterium called Faecalibacterium prausnitzii.

How does our emotional and mental state impact eczema?

Stress and anxiety make just about everything worse and eczema is no exception. When we are stressed our body goes into fight or flight mode. This causes a flood of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol.  When we have too much of these hormones, it can suppress our immune system and cause an inflammatory response in the body and skin. People with eczema are particularly susceptible to this type of inflammation. What’s worse is eczema causes stress due to the itch and appearance and stress makes eczema and gut health worse. It becomes a vicious cycle.

The gut-brain communication also plays a role here. Since the brain and the body communicate as a result of the inflammatory response it is no wonder that according to the National Eczema Association, those with eczema are 30% more likely to suffer from depression and/or anxiety than those without eczema.

What steps can someone with eczema do to improve his or her gut and emotional health?

There are many steps that can be taken to improve eczema and gut health. Diet is key.  It is essential to improve and heal the gut with a whole food, anti-inflammatory diet. This includes vegetables, fruits, and lean protein and often it is important to avoid gluten and dairy.

For my patients I find it is helpful to check for food sensitivities and allergies.

ILW Recommends: Adverse Food Reactions: Find Out Which Food Test Is Right For You.

It is important to support the health of the microbiome by eating foods that act as prebiotics such as asparagus and leeks. Prebiotics make it to the colon relatively undigested and promote good bacteria.  Probiotics are also important to promote healthy bacteria and consist of fermented foods such as sauerkraut and kimchi.

For emotional health as well as healthy gut bacteria, exercise is key.  It can help with anxiety and depression and promotes good bacteria.  To help with anxiety, cognitive behavioral therapy, psychotherapy and antidepressants can be a lifesaver.

ILW Recommends our series: The Emotional Impact of Eczema

There is another factor, which has come to light as well.  This is the gene methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase also known as MTHFR. This is a gene that codes for how we process folate or folic acid in our diet by programming the formation of enzymes needed to convert folate to l-methylfolate in our gut. L-methylfolate is what we need for our body to make dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin. These are the hormones that help us to feel good and give us energy. Many of us have at least one mutation on this gene and many have two.  If that is the case, the treatment is a supplement known as L-methylfolate.  I have found for people who have the mutation the treatment is helpful for mood as well as irritable bowel symptoms.  Less stress, less moodiness, improved eczema. MTHFR can be checked with a simple blood test or cheek swab.

There is still more to learn about the treatment of eczema, but we do have many tools to improve the symptoms mood and outcome of this condition with more to come in the future!

Eczema and Gut Health - Dr. Miller

Bio: An established author (The Smart Woman’s Guide to Midlife and Beyond and Kids Ask the Doctor), Dr. Miller has gathered the knowledge, insights and anecdotes offered in this book over the course of 33 years of treating patients using the principles of integrative medicine. Board certified in Internal Medicine, she trained with Andrew Weil as an Integrative Medicine Fellow at University of Arizona. She is currently Medical Director of Triune Integrative Medicine, a highly innovative integrative medicine clinic in Medford, Oregon. She blogs regularly for Sharecare.com, an interactive health and wellness website founded in conjunction with Dr. Mehmet Oz, where she serves as Executive Advisory Board member. Robin is also a medical reporter and a regular correspondent for KOBI-5, the NBC affiliate in Southern Oregon.

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Eczema and Stress: Are They Related? Learn to Calm Your Mind and Skin

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As you read this, more than 32 million Americans are scratching their skin due to eczema.  According to the National Eczema Association, eczema affects at least 10% of people in the United States. Eczema is a skin disorder that is triggered by allergens and other irritants, infections, extreme weather temperatures, and the one that we can control – stress.

If you want to escape the onset of eczema, you have to protect yourself from what triggers it. In fact, this skin condition is called a psychodermatologic disorder because eczema and stress almost always go hand-in-hand. This is just a scientific way of saying that it is a physical disorder that is tied to your mental and emotional health.

There’s no denying it – stress is the root of most of our health problems.  It has even been linked to heart disease, for one, and many others. So, can stress cause eczema? Yes! And it makes perfect sense. The correlation between psychological wellbeing and skin health is so strong that there’s even a subspecialty in dermatology called psychodermatology.

Stress Induced Eczema – It’s a Thing!  

The connection between eczema and stress has long been established.  The scientific explanation behind this is that stress releases hormones that affect our immune system.  People with eczema actually have weak immune systems, which in turn causes inflammation of the skin, and can manifest into itchy rashes or worse, painful blisters.  Stress can also exacerbate the condition and cause your skin to flare up.

We all have our ways of coping with stress.  Some people are able to take life’s challenges (and changes) lightly while some have difficulty digesting it.

I know, I know.  Avoiding eczema from stress is easier said than done.  Sometimes it’s just easier applying a cream and avoiding the stress altogether. There is certainly nothing wrong with a little natural eczema cream to get some immediate relief, but the key to getting a handle on your eczema permanently is determining how you can avoid the onset of symptoms altogether.

Here are some tried and tested tips to calm your body and say goodbye to stress induced eczema:

Meditation / Prayer Time

Set aside some quiet time (like 15 minutes) every day to take stock of your life.  Lifting all your worries to a Higher Power will give you the serenity to cope with life’s challenges.

Try the Headspace app – it’s a great intro to meditation that will ease you in and get you hooked.

Spend Time with Others

Spend time with family, friends, and other support groups.  The conversations will surely distract you from scratching. And it is not only your skin that will be improved but your relationships too! For additional help, check out the National Eczema Association’s online support group here.

Read More: 8 Ways to Relieve Stress In Children With Eczema  

Self-Love

On the other hand, if there is anyone (or anything) in your life that is causing you stress, trying breaking away from that negative energy. Don’t feel guilty about it! It’s important to have some self-love too.

Prioritize and Delegate

If your list of to-do’s is getting too long and causing you much stress, learn to prioritize and delegate tasks.  You don’t have to do everything all at once, or by yourself for that matter.

Relax

Breathe deeply and find time to relax. You can even do this while taking your morning or afternoon walk.

Exercise

Exercise is very important in improving your mood and it will help you sweat your toxins away.

Your choice of exercise doesn’t have to high impact – like Zumba (Although that’s fun too!). For something calm, try yoga, which improves your mindfulness and concentration. A double win!

A Gentle Bath

Have a good, but not necessarily long, lukewarm bath.  It will relax you and soothe your itchy skin (if you use an oatmeal bath for eczema).  Just don’t forget to use a gentle natural soap and moisturize afterwards. Learn how to find the best eczema soap here.

Also, avoid rubbing your skin dry with a towel.  It will irritate your skin. Just pat it dry instead.

Sleep   

Often overlooked, but a great sleep can have a real effect on both your happiness and wellbeing.  Also, the right pajamas (made for eczema prone skin) can make all the difference in the world. Look for soft, comfortable eczema sleepwear for a good night’s sleep.

Alternative Medicine

Try alternative medicine such as acupuncture to relieve you from eczema caused by stress.  But, if you’re not feeling brave enough to go under the needles of acupuncture, then go for its hand counterpart, which is acupressure for eczema or reflexology.

A simple massage can also help relax your tense muscles.  Dim the lights and play some nature sounds while you’re at it for the ultimate spa experience.

Take a Vacation

A quick urban escape or brief weekend getaway will do and the change of scenery will do a lot of good for your senses. Just make sure your prep time and travel is stress free!

Start a Journal

If you have a knack for writing, then start a journal and write away.  This will help eliminate the negative thoughts that are causing you stress.

A gratitude journal or self exploration journal are great tools for those who need guidance to break into the world of journaling.

See a Professional

If the stress seems too much to handle and you cannot find solace in your immediate circle, try seeking professional advice.  The intervention could be what you need to heal your mind and your skin.

Whichever method you choose to relieve your stress, you need to find something you enjoy doing.  Do you enjoy getting immersed in a film or book? Do you prefer spending time with friends? It’s really up to you to discover what will make you mentally strong.  The bottomline – stress management is an integral part of treating eczema.  Manage your stress and you’ll be able to manage your eczema as well.

Planning to have a baby?

If you are planning to get pregnant, or already are, you should avoid stress, as a recent study [1] showed that stress prior and during pregnancy leads to eczema in infants.  So it’s not just YOUR skin that’s affected – your unborn child’s skin is affected too!

One Last Story…

To part, let me share with you this story of Bronya Humphreys [2], a 20-year old mom from England.  She transformed her eczema into works of art with the use of make-up. She fought depression by not wallowing in self-pity and instead decided to accept her eczema. Accepting, embracing, and even celebrating her skin disease has enabled her to convert it into something that gives inspiration.

Learn more about the Power of Trust & Acceptance and the Impact on Eczema.

It’s true – you are not your skin condition.  Accepting your eczema will not only make it easier to treat, but in time you will be able to live comfortably in your own skin.

Do you suffer from stress induced eczema? Let us know in the comments below!

Resources:

  1. https://www.deccanchronicle.com/lifestyle/health-and-wellbeing/040317/pre-pregnancy-stress-level-may-lead-to-eczema-in-future-child.html
  2. https://food.ndtv.com/health/pre-pregnancy-stress-may-lead-to-eczema-in-infants-1666091
  3. https://www.oddnaari.in/life/story/this-woman-transforms-her-eczema-into-pieces-of-art-using-make-up-127156-2018-02-05

About the Author

Saif is a Wellness Writer and Digital Marketing Expert at Healthy-Finds.com, a company committed to imparting the knowledge and access that people need for a long and healthy life.  He usually loves to hangouts with rankings and work but when he is not working, he travels most of the time.

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The Best Facial Cleanser for Eczema

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Facial eczema is never easy to treat. With all the different products on the market that claim to be sensitive facial cleansers, it’s difficult to choose a product that works for your eczema. That’s why this week – we’re discussing the best facial cleanser for eczema. Also make sure to check out some creams that are soothing, nourishing and sensitive enough for eczema on the face, including lips and eyes.

Please keep in mind that although these treatments can relieve eczema, we are in no way medical professionals. If you’re experiencing severe eczema symptoms like an infection, it is best to seek medical advice immediately.

Best Facial Cleanser for Eczema

Facial eczema is extremely difficult to treat and as such, a gentle enough treatment is always tricky to find. Many cleansers on the market are ridden with toxic ingredients such as parabens, fragrances, phthalates and much more.

ILW Recommends: 13 Skincare Ingredients & Eczema Irritants You NEED to Avoid Right Now

A proper cleanser for eczema needs to be gentle, but should also be soothing and nourishing as well. You don’t want to opt for a cleanser that will leave your skin feeling dry. That will only be uncomfortable and result in further eczema flares. The problem with most cleansers and soaps is that they strip the skin and leave you worse off than when you began. Read more about how soaps strip the skin and how to find the Best Eczema Soap.

One facial cleanser for eczema we stand by is Bodyceuticals Organic Calendula Eczema Face Wash. This face wash is a highly concentrated formula, so you actually only need one pump to clean the entire face (talk about affordable!). The calendula, seaweed and blended herbs provide a cleanser that is both repairing and moisturizing. Unlike other cleansers, this face wash will not strip skin from moisture and will instead calm red, inflamed skin. This facial cleanser for eczema is also a perfect for those that have sensitive skin.

Not all bar soaps are drying and we suggest you try this Grass Fed Tallow Soap to see just how moisturizing a bar of soap can be. This super fatty soap is so gentle that it’s great for using anywhere on your body, including your sensitive face. It’s super simple ingredient list means it’s great for someone with even the most sensitive or allergic of skin. So, we highly recommend giving this bar soap a try.

Best Facial Cream for Eczema

After a good facial cleansing, it’s best to apply a cream or balm to lock in the moisture and soothe and nourish the skin. Similarly to facial cleansers for eczema, you want to make sure these creams are as natural as possible.

A great cream that I use on my skin is Bodyceuticals Calendula Face Eczema Cream. This cream is extremely cooling and helps soothe irritated and dry skin. Normally, I apply this cream at night on sensitive and dry parts of my face like the sides of my nose, my chin and cheeks. I also love doubling up this cream as a makeup remover.

Because the cream includes organic coconut oil, it’s very easy to use it to wipe off eyeliner, mascara and eye shadow. Plus – this cream is also so gentle it can be used for eyelid eczema as well.

Another excellent cream that is also nourishing and perfect for facial eczema, is Eczeherbal’s Colloidal Oatmeal Eczema Cream. This treatment includes both aloe vera and 2% colloidal oatmeal to keep skin nourished and reduce inflammation. Aside from adults, it can also be used on children, babies and even pets!

For extreme moisture, you can also try this Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream, which is extremely nourishing for dry, irritated skin. It’s more of a creamy balm, so a very small amount goes a long way. In general, it’s best worn at night as it is so thick and creamy.

Looking for more moisturizing options? Check out the natural eczema cream here. 

How to Wash your Face with Eczema

With eczema, it’s best to be extra gentle with the skin, which is highly sensitive. Here is how we recommend washing your face with eczema:

  • Start by splashing your face with warm (not hot) water. Then gently massage in a cleanser for sensitive skin or eczema like Bodyceuticals Organic Calendula Eczema Face Wash. Or try one of these best eczema soaps.
  • Carefully remove every bit of cleanser with cool water and your hands. You can experiment with using a wash cloth for exfoliation, but proceed with caution as wash cloths can be too abrasive and irritating at times.
  • Pat (don’t rub) the skin dry and immediately apply an emollient like Bodyceuticals Calendula Face Eczema Cream which was made to use with the face wash above.
  • If cleaning your face in the morning, try going cleanser free and simply do a cool water rinse. Then apply a natural sunscreen on your face to protect your face against harmful UVA and UVB Rays. Read about the Best All Natural Sunscreens for Eczema. For a natural face cream with SPF protect, try this one by OM Botanicals with cooling aloe and shea butter.

If you’re suffering from facial eczema and just can’t find a cleanser or cream that provides relief, then perhaps its time to look within. Many eczema sufferers have found relief and treatment by simply changing their diet. If you think your facial eczema might be caused by the foods you’re eating, make sure to check out this blog post: Our Eczema Elimination Diet Success (How You Can Do it Too!). An elimination diet is essentially removing certain foods from your diet for a specific time period and then reintroducing them slowly to determine which foods are causing a reaction.

Do you suffer from facial eczema?

Let us know what cleanser you use below in the comments section!

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7 Holistic Eczema Treatments to Try Today

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Do you suffer from mild or moderate eczema and just cannot find relief with conventional eczema treatments? Then perhaps you should consider looking into alternative medicine for eczema. This week, we share six holistic eczema treatments that can help provide relief via natural means.

Please keep in mind that although these treatments can relieve eczema, we are in no way medical professionals. If you’re experiencing severe eczema symptoms like an infection, it is best to seek medical advice immediately.

1. Traditional Chinese Medicine

Have you tried various medications or steroids for your eczema, but you can’t seem to find relief? A great alternative to these non-natural and often abrasive treatments is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Most often this type of treatment involves customized herbal teas made by a practitioner to address specific ailments for an individual. Many eczema sufferers have found relief in Chinese medicine, such as Sophia Ruan Gushée who managed to control her baby’s eczema through herbal medicine instead of steroid treatments.

Read her story here: Why I Tried Herbal Medicine for Eczema

Here is another story from mother, Selena of Amazing & Atopic, who is working with the infamous Dr. Xiu-Min Li of Mt Sinai Hospital to heal her daughter of all atopic conditions. Using Traditional Chinese Medicine to Treat Food Allergies, Eczema & Asthma.

To get started with Traditional Chinese Medicine, find a practitioner in your area. Curious as to what to expect during your first visit? Read about it in this post.

Aside from working with a TCM practitioner, you can try natural skincare that features traditional Chinese herbs such as this Emily’s Skin Soothers for Itchy Eczema or this Little Itchy Red Rash Treatment from Zi Zai Dermatology.

For more natural treatments that use Traditional Chinese Medicine, make sure to check out these holistic eczema treatments.

2. Acupuncture & Acupressure

Another holistic treatment that has been effective for many eczema sufferers is acupuncture (inserting paper thin needles to specific points on the body) and acupressure (applying pressure to similar points). Both treatments help blood flow more harmoniously and can help alleviate eczema symptoms without the need for medication. This type of treatment is also quite well known for its ability to stop pain and itching. In fact, it’s fairly easy to treat yourself for itching in your own home using these acupressure for eczema techniques.

For more information, make sure to check out our blog post: Learn About Using Eastern Medicine and Acupuncture For Eczema Treatment.

3. Naturopathy

Another great alternative to healing eczema is naturopathy. Naturopathy consists of practices that are non-invasive and promote self-healing, while finding the root cause of an illness or condition.

Many eczema sufferers have found relief by visiting a naturopath and adopting a more natural healing approach like changing their diet, adopting sublingual immunotherapy, food sensitivity tests and more.

To get a better of how naturopathy can help your eczema, check out our blog post: Naturopathic Approach to Allergies, Asthma and Eczema in Kids.

If you haven’t visited a naturopath or plan to shortly, you can always check out some natural ways to start healing your eczema today. Both our blog posts: 5 Tips for Healing Eczema Naturally and 5 Tips of Eczema Itch are a great start to discovering natural treatments to help relieve your eczema.

4. Homeopathy

Have you tried homeopathy for eczema? Similar to naturopathy, this type of medicine looks at the whole body and is unique to each individual. A homeopath prescribes sublingual granules or tinctures to provide relief for illnesses and conditions like eczema and can prescribe stronger versions in attempt to reverse illness completely.

To get started with this approach, it is always best to see a homeopathic practitioner that will help choose the best homeopathic approach for you. Remember – everyone is different, so one homeopathic treatment will most likely always differ from the other. However, there are a few pre-made tinctures that our editor and founder, Jennifer Roberge, found worked well for her son’s eczema, which you can read about here.

For more information on homeopathy, check: Homeopathy for Eczema: What is It and How Does it Work?

5. NAET

Have you ever heard of NAET (Nambudripad’s Allergy Elimination Techniques)? This alternative treatment is a non-invasive, drug free, natural solution to alleviate allergies and sensitivities that can cause eczema. The techniques use a blend of several holistic techniques such as kinesiology, chiropractic therapies, acupuncture/acupressure, nutrition and more. Many people who suffer from eczema tend to swear by it. Another similar treatment is Advanced Allergy Therapeutics (AAT), which you can read more about here. Both methods test for “allergies” that may be triggering eczema using muscle testing, which detects weaknesses in your body when touching the potential allergen. Treatment involves holding the allergen and applying pressure to various points over your body.

Keep in mind it can take many, many sessions over a course of months before you start to see results. That being said, this treatment can be quite expensive and time-consuming.

6. Reiki

Another holistic eczema treatment that many eczema sufferers find results with is Reiki, a holistic and spiritual treatment originating in 1920s Japan. Reiki involves tapping into the energy of the universe while using the hands as a conduit to provide a deeper level of spiritual healing, to balance the body mentally, physically and emotionally.

For more information on Reiki, make sure to check out our blog post: What is Reiki & Can It Help Eczema?

7. Ayurveda

Ayurveda is another ancient form of healing that has helped many eczema sufferers. Ayurveda, which literally means the science of life Ayur = Life, Veda = Science, is a medicinal system from India which combines both philosophy and medicine. Ayurveda is a unique branch of medicine and a complete naturalistic system, which embodies mind-body medicine.

To discover more about Ayurveda healing and if it’s the right treatment for your eczema, make sure to check out our blog post: Your Guide to Using Ayurveda for Eczema.

Although there are many holistic eczema treatments out there that have been known to work quite well for many suffering with eczema, it’s important to remember that each person reacts differently to these types of treatments. Just because it works wonders for one person, doesn’t mean it will provide immediate results for you. As always, it’s important to keep in mind that treating skin conditions and illnesses take time.

Regardless, whichever treatment you choose, remember to keep your doctor updated on any changes or issues. Also, if you experience negative side effects, make sure to seek medical advice immediately.

If you’ve tried these methods and are looking for further help, consider working with a practitioner to undergo an elimination diet to help you identify which foods might be causing your eczema to trigger. Check out our blog post: Our Eczema Elimination Diet Success (How You Can Do It Too!) to get started on healing from within today.

Bio: Laura is a contributor and content developer for It’s An Itchy Little World. She is in no way a medical professional. Her comments, suggestions, and reflections are not intended to replace any medical advice. Always seek the help of a medical professional before undertaking any diet or lifestyle changes. Please see It’s An Itchy Little World’s disclaimer for information about affiliate links and more.

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What Causes Psoriasis to Flare Up? Avoid the Top 10 Triggers

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Psoriasis is a skin condition that is caused either by the genetic makeup of an individual or due to some problem with the body’s immune system. The condition occurs when the T cells – the white blood cells – become active and instead of attacking an infection attack the skin cells. This leads to dry, scaly patches on the skin that may or may not bleed.

Although the main cause of the disease is not quite certain to date, it is pertinent to know what the major triggers are. If you know which triggers to avoid, you can have better control your psoriasis flare up. This week, we takes a look at what causes psoriasis to flare up. Here are a few ideas:

1. Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Since the research started on the subject, it was found that people with psoriasis, usually had a higher alcohol consumption rate. In fact, alcohol doesn’t just act as a trigger, but can also prolong the treatment of the disease.

So, for those suffering from psoriasis, limiting alcohol intake or quitting the habit is the best thing to do.

2. Genetics

Many believe genes to be the major cause of psoriasis. However, the disease has to be set off by some other factor alongside the genetics. Bear in mind, not everyone who has a family history of the disease is likely to develop it at some point in their lives.

Read More: 9 Natural Remedies for Psoriasis You Should Try

3. Stress

Just as it is the leading cause of hundreds of other diseases, stress is a major cause of psoriasis. In fact, it doesn’t just cause the disease, often it makes it much worse than it really should be.

To keep things under control, here are some techniques that’ll help you bring the stress levels down.

For children, try these stress relieving techniques: 8 Ways to Relieve Stress in Children.

4. Smoking

Smoking is known to worsen the symptoms of psoriasis. The tobacco raises the chances of your developing the condition. Then, the more you smoke, the more psoriasis breaks out.

It is a good lifestyle decision for those suffering from psoriasis to quit smoking.

5. Food

Although the effect of the type of food you eat on the disease is not completely established yet. However, you may want to avoid the following in case you have developed psoriasis:

  • Gluten
  • Whole Milk
  • Fatty foods
  • Refined sugar
  • Citrus fruits
  • Processed food

ILW Recommends: Try an Elimination Diet to see what foods trigger your psoriasis!

6. Skin Injuries

Anything that causes trauma to the skin can be a major trigger for the outbreak of psoriasis. Things like tattoos, scratches, bug bites, cuts, sunburn and even vaccines may cause a trauma and lead to the disease.

So make sure to protect your skin, and to cover your body properly.

7. Steroids and Other Medication

There are some medicines that can meddle with your body’s immune system and lead to psoriasis. Some of the medicines that may cause an outbreak or flare up include steroids, beta-blockers, non-steroidal Indomethacin, lithium and even malarial treatment pills.

8. Infections

Some types of infections, like the Streptococcal pharyngitis – infection of the throat – or Candida Albicans – thrush or yeast infection – can also lead to the spread of psoriasis. It is better to treat infections as quickly as possible.

9. Hormonal Changes

Hormones play a very important role in maintaining the natural balance of the body. At any point when there’s a misbalance, your body is at risk of psoriasis and with many other conditions. So, usually at the time of puberty or menopause, you may experience a flare-up or spread of the patches.

10. Weather Conditions

Often psoriasis can spread as an irritable response to weather extremities. The harsh cold weather can cause dryness, itching, and redness. Similarly, sunburn can also lead to skin damage and hence, psoriasis.

It is better to avoid outdoor activities if the weather is extreme.

Last Thoughts

The condition can range from mild to severe depending on the symptoms. While minor psoriasis is common and doesn’t do long-term damage, severe psoriasis requires immediate medical intervention and treatment.

ILW Recommends: Natural Skincare Treatments for Psoriasis 

Prevention is always the best cure – once you’ve learned about the triggers, it is easier to avoid them in order to stay safe and healthy. Psoriasis may look scary and a condition that can hurt you physically and psychologically, but understanding your skin, the disease, common triggers, and how to avoid them can help you control your condition.

What causes your psoriasis to flare up? We want to hear about it in our comments below!

Author Bio

Hello, I’m Jean, a passionate health enthusiast and personal trainer. After diagnosed with psoriasis in 2002 and struggling to keep it under control, I decided to write about my personal experiences and issues that relate to psoriasis in 2007. Through my writing, I hope to provide answers to questions about this disease and how it can be controlled.

The post What Causes Psoriasis to Flare Up? Avoid the Top 10 Triggers appeared first on itchylittleworld.com.

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Pet Allergies and Eczema: Is it Time to Switch to a Pet-Free Home?

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Another great post from itchylittleworld.com – Natural remedies for eczema to soothe your itchy little world..

By Laura Dolgy (see bio below)

Do you adore animals, but you’re terribly allergic to them? If dogs, cats, or any other animals cause you or your children major allergies,  it might be time to consider giving the pet to a new home. Why put yourself or your children through the torture of allergies, eczema, or asthma, if it can be avoided? But the idea isn’t ever an easy one. After all, our pets are really part of our family, how can we imagine saying goodbye?

In our post this week, we take a deeper look at pet allergies and eczema, as well as the tough decision to possibly switch to a pet-free home.

Please keep in mind that although these treatments can relieve eczema, we are in no way medical professionals. If you’re experiencing severe eczema symptoms like fever or an infection, it is best to seek medical advice immediately.

Pet Dander and Eczema and the Hypoallergenic Pet Myth

Before answering that tough question, let’s first consider whether eczema can truly be caused by pets. As mentioned in What Triggers Eczema? With Dr. Peter Lio, a major contributor of eczema symptoms are allergens – including pet allergens. When focusing on health conditions like eczema, allergies, and asthma, one of the most common allergens is pet dander. Dander is actually the animal version of dandruff! Dander is usually the cause of most animal allergies because it is so easily spreadable. It can attach itself easily to clothing or be inhaled.

Dander can appear in almost all animals, but that does not mean that dander among all species is equal. For example the dander levels between a heavily furred dog and a rabbit are very different.

Keep in mind that there is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic dog or furry animal. Curly haired dogs produce next to no fur, but does that mean the most common allergen, dander, is reduced to? Not necessarily according to Mayo Clinic “Some dog breeds are marketed as hypoallergenic because they don’t shed fur or they shed very little. Because these dogs don’t shed, the allergy-causing dander that sticks to their fur doesn’t get released into the air or onto the floor as much as with a shedding dog. But while you may have less dog hair with a nonshedding dog, no dog breed is hypoallergenic.”

But what if it’s not dander? You may also be allergic to a pet’s saliva and if you are unable to train your pet not to lick you and give you kisses, then saliva is a hard allergen to avoid. In our previous blog post: Pet Alternatives for People with Animal Allergies, we look at some other allergens that might be triggering your eczema.

Whatever the cause – once you learn which animal allergen is triggering your eczema, you’ll be able to work toward a more effective plan of managing your reactions.

What if I’m Not Ready to Give Away my Pet?

Giving away an animal is never easy and believe us – it’s something we do not encourage unless it is absolutely necessary. In fact – we encourage you to explore ALL other options before giving away your pet! Below, you’ll find a few suggestions on treatments and practices that can help you live a better (and less itchy) life with your furry pal.

Treatments

Nasal Irrigation

Do you have mild or moderate allergies to your pet? If so, most commonly you’ll experience watery eyes and a runny nose. If you happen to feel constant congestion, then working some nasal irrigation into your daily routine can drastically help you control those symptoms.

One of the most popular systems for nasal irrigation happens to be a Neti Pot. Many people who suffer from allergic rhinitis swear by this device because it is quite effective at removing mucus or dirt that may fall into the nasal cavity, like dander.

Homeopathy

If you happen to suffer from eczema caused by dogs or cats, then you might want to look into what homeopathic remedies can help you. Homeopathy is a great natural solution for eczema and allergy symptoms. Although, it’s always best to seek medical advice and visit with a homeopath, there are a few types you can try specifically for pet allergies such as Allium Cepa.

Antihistamines (Stinging Nettle)

Although we would never recommend over the counter antihistamines, as they are not a safe long-term solution, there are some natural antihistamines that can be used to suppress pet allergies. Surprisingly, the herb, stinging nettle is a fantastic antihistamine and can be used for eczema, hay fever and inflammation. We recommend opting for freeze-dried stinging nettle pills like this one, as the freeze-dried versions seem to react better to allergens.

Moisturize

There are also several natural topical remedies that can help one’s eczema from pet allergies. Because eczema affects the skin barrier, you want to make sure to keep the area well moisturized in order to avoid inflammation and infection.

However, because there are many types of eczema, you want to make sure to opt for a moisturizer that is made just for the type of skin symptoms you are experiencing.

  • Itchy Eczema – The most common form of eczema for allergens is usually itchy, dry eczema. This type of eczema appears as red, itchy and sometimes flaky patches. Essentially the skin barrier is lacking moisture. For a deep moisturizing treatment, make sure to try Emily Skin Soothers for Itchy Eczema which uses both olive oil and beeswax to soothe dry, itchy skin.
  • Red Weeping Eczema – If your skin is inflamed, red or weeping, then moisturizing skin can be a little difficult. Not only can the affected area be painful, but it is most likely extremely sensitive. If you’re suffering from weeping, red eczema, then make sure to check out EczeHerbal #1 – Oozing Eczema Treatment. This treatment uses specific Chinese Herbs to calm weeping skin and prevent further infection. Another really good one is Emily’s Hot Skin Soother.
  • Scaly Eczema – Lastly, scaly, dry eczema also requires sufficient moisturizing to eliminate further infection. This type of eczema usually appears as “crocodile skin” and can easily be calmed with a variety of deep moisturizing treatments like this Organic Manuka Honey Skin Soothing Cream. This cream is full of nourishing ingredients such as beeswax, Manuka honey and Manuka oil to keep skin well moisturized.

Practices

Pet Bedding and Food

If you’re dead set on not giving up your pet, then you may want to look into whether your pet’s bedding or food might actually be causing your eczema to flare. Cleaning your furry pal’s bedding or usual hangouts can actually reduce the spread of dander and can perhaps decrease your chances of eczema flareups.

Here are a couple daily tasks you can adopt to eliminate the spread of dander, as well as possibly reduce the onset of nasty allergies:

  • Dust and vacuum frequently.
  • Have the dog bathed regularly.
  • Keep the pets out of the bedrooms and always off beds and sofas.
  • Use an air purification unit specifically made to filter out pollens, dander, and dust.

Lastly – if you haven’t checked out your pet’s food – you might want to do so as soon as possible. For people that suffer from a shellfish allergy, some pet foods can wreak absolute havoc on your system, even if you’re not the one consuming it. Gluten and soy are major fillers used in dog food as well. Make sure to check the label and ditch the food if you think it might be the main culprit of your eczema.

If you’re not able to find relief after conducting all of the above – then maybe it’s time to really consider making a pet-free home. As we already mentioned, it’s NEVER easy giving up a pet and we never recommend it unless it’s absolutely necessary. However, is it really fair to make yourself or others suffer? Think about your pet too! Shouldn’t they deserve to be cared by someone who can give them 100%? Honestly – it stinks and it’s never an easy decision, but it’s important to consider the bigger picture.

Alternatively, if your family is looking to bring home a pet, then it’s always best to do some allergy-free research beforehand! If dogs seem to trigger a reaction, try another animal, not all animal allergies are the same. It’s also great to research some alternatives to pets that do not have dander such as reptiles, fish, and some types of birds.

Whichever option you choose, remember that your health or your family’s health is just as important!

Do you suffer from pet allergies and eczema? Let us know how you handle it in the comments below!

Bio: Laura is a contributor and content developer for It’s An Itchy Little World. She is in no way a medical professional. Her comments, suggestions, and reflections are not intended to replace any medical advice. Always seek the help of a medical professional before undertaking any diet or lifestyle changes. Please see It’s An Itchy Little World’s disclaimer for information about affiliate links and more.

Pet Allergies and Eczema: Is it Time to Switch to a Pet-Free Home? appeared first on itchylittleworld.com. Come read more about natural remedies for eczema!

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The Most Natural Cradle Cap Treatments (and Sebborheic Dermatitis)

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Another great post from itchylittleworld.com – Natural remedies for eczema to soothe your itchy little world..

Has your little one been suffering from an ongoing flaky scalp full of crusty and oily patches? Or are you an adult who suffers from this condition, also known as seborrheic dermatitis? You’re not alone, it’s pretty common. Either way, have no fear – we’re here to help you get through the worst cradle cap days.

Although cradle cap is usually not painful and itchy, it can be somewhat uncomfortable for a baby and unsightly in adults. This week, we identify the most natural cradle cap treatments, as well as clothing to help keep sensitive scalps stay protected.

Please keep in mind that although these treatments can relieve eczema, we are in no way medical professionals. If you’re experiencing severe eczema symptoms like fever or an infection, it is best to seek medical advice immediately.

What is Cradle Cap?

Cradle cap also known as scalp eczema usually appears on the scalp of babies. This yellowish, patchy, greasy and often crusty skin rash usually disappears after three months, but it can also be apparent later in life. Normally cradle cap can turn into dandruff, yet it can also form into seborrheic dermatitis – a long-term skin disorder that results in itchy and often inflamed skin on the scalp, face or chest.

Although there is no cure and very little known reason why both these conditions exist, there are several natural remedies for cradle cap and types of clothing that can help protect and naturally treat symptoms.

Natural Remedies for Cradle Cap in Infants

Because little ones who suffer from cradle cap are usually under a year old, the best way to treat cradle cap in infants is opting for a treatment that does not include synthetic (and possibly dangerous) ingredients, but instead uses the most natural soothing ingredients available.

This Organic Manuka Honey Skin Cream is extremely popular for treating both inflamed and extremely dry skin. The combination of both Manuka honey and beeswax offers a thick and nourishing treatment that can penetrate even the thickest of skin. This cream is also anti-inflammatory, which is perfect for cradle cap considering that it is an inflammatory condition.

If your little one’s cradle cap is causing them to scratch their scalp, make sure to check out Emily Skin Soothers Itchy Eczema Soother. This product line was made by an acupuncturist for his infant daughter, so you know it’s made with the safest and most gentle ingredients. The collection of Chinese herbs in this treatment along with an olive oil and beeswax base soothe super dry skin while providing itch relief.

Because cradle cap can be incredible crusty, treating it with both sunflower oil and vitamin E can be extremely beneficial. This Emily Skin Soothers for Severe Diaper Rash includes both these ingredients, as well as different herbs to provide healing for topical bacteria, yeast and fungus.

When bathing your little one, you want to make sure to not dry skin out even more. This Emily Skin Soothers Eczema Soap contains natural, simple Chinese herbs as well as an olive oil base that keeps skin nourished and moisturized. This soap can also double up as a gentle shampoo – which makes it one of our favorite natural remedies for cradle cap in infants.

Baby Clothing for Cradle Cap

Does your little one constantly touch or play with their cradle cap? Are you just tired of seeing flakes fall everywhere? No worries! Try a hat.

Both the GoumiHat and SkintoSkin Baby Hat are great tools in treating cradle cap, especially when combining them with a natural cream or balm. Both these hats can easily be used for both wet and dry therapy (a process that is known to help keep moisture in and soothe the driest of skin!). To learn more about wet wrap therapy, make sure to check out our blog post: Our Eczema Trials – Wet Wrap Therapy. Alternatively, you can check out our blog post about dry wrap therapy here: Our Eczema Trials – Dry Wrapping.

Seborrheic Dermatitis: Cradle Cap Treatments for Adults

As mentioned previously, cradle cap can turn into seborrheic dermatitis later in life. Similarly to infants, there are several cradle cap treatments for adults that can be used.

Because most seborrheic dermatitis appears on the scalp similarly to cradle cap, opting for a natural shampoo is a great start to treating your scalp eczema. This Emily Skin Soothers Liquid Soap Soother is extra nourishing and moisturizing, plus it can double up as a shampoo. The Chinese herbs it contains are made for itchy, dry skin, so it’s ideal for scalp eczema and seborrheic dermatitis.

Read More: 4 Ways to Relieve Seborrheic Dermatitis

If your seborrheic dermatitis happens to be inflamed, painful or itchy, make sure to check out this Emily Skin Soothers for Red Eczema Rashes. This treatment is made to calm hot, angry skin, as well as crusty or weeping eczema. It also treats bacteria, yeast, and fungus.

For easy application to your scalp, pop it in the microwave for about 5-10 seconds and apply it to the affected area.

Although there is currently no cure for either cradle cap or seborrheic dermatitis, there are several natural cradle cap treatments that can provide natural and safe relief. For chronic conditions as an adult, consider healing from the inside. An elimination diet may be just what you need to find your hidden triggers.

Do you suffer from cradle cap or seborrheic dermatitis?

Let us know what you think are the best natural cradle cap treatments!

Bio: Laura is a contributor and content developer for It’s An Itchy Little World. She is in no way a medical professional. Her comments, suggestions, and reflections are not intended to replace any medical advice. Always seek the help of a medical professional before undertaking any diet or lifestyle changes. Please see It’s An Itchy Little World’s disclaimer for information about affiliate links and more.

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