Are you tired of dealing with the uncomfortable and often embarrassing symptoms of eczema? Are you looking for a more natural and cost-effective solution to managing your condition? Say goodbye to harsh chemicals and expensive store-bought creams, and join us on this journey to healthier, happier skin with DIY eczema cream!
Home Remedies for Eczema aim to soothe the skin, reduce inflammation, and prevent further outbreaks. Ingredients commonly found in kitchens, such as coconut oil, oatmeal, and honey, are at the center of these natural solutions.
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by red, itchy rashes. It’s common in children but can occur at any age, with symptoms that often flare up periodically and then clear up for a time. Several types of eczema exist, with the most prevalent being atopic dermatitis.
Its exact cause remains unknown, but researchers believe a combination of genes and environmental triggers plays a significant role. Triggers can include substances that come into contact with the skin, such as soaps, cosmetics, clothing, detergents, jewelry, or sweat. Stress can also play a part, as can changes in temperature and humidity.
Using Home Remedies for Eczema
Eczema sufferers are often more in tune with their body’s reactions and sensitivities, making customization a highly attractive prospect. Crafting your own eczema cream can also be significantly cheaper than buying over-the-counter treatments, and the degree of control over the ingredients is an essential comfort for many.
I started making my own homemade eczema cream for my daughter when she was young and nothing seemed to work for her skin irritation.
Understanding Eczema: Symptoms and Triggers
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic dry skin condition that causes the skin to become inflamed, red, and itchy. It’s a common ailment that affects both children and adults, and its severity can vary from mild irritation to severe discomfort. One of the most telltale signs of eczema is the persistent itchiness that can lead to scratching, potentially further irritating the eczema-prone skin and causing it to bleed or become infected. Other common symptoms include dry, flaky skin, red or brown patches, and thickened or scaly areas.
Understanding the triggers of eczema is crucial in managing this condition. Environmental factors such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and even certain weather conditions can provoke flare-ups. Additionally, specific allergens found in foods—like dairy, soy, or nuts—may exacerbate eczema symptoms for some individuals.
Stress and hormonal changes are also known to play roles in triggering or worsening eczema, making it essential for sufferers to identify their unique triggers. Also, taking baths or showers using hot water can irritate inflamed skin. By recognizing and avoiding these triggers, those affected can alleviate symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Steroid Creams for Eczema: A Common Treatment
Steroid creams, also known as topical corticosteroids, are commonly prescribed by doctors to manage eczema symptoms. These powerful anti-inflammatory medications work by reducing redness and swelling, providing relief for itchy skin. However, prolonged use of steroid creams can lead to thinning of the skin and other side effects such as stretch marks and discoloration.
Some people may find that their eczema symptoms return or become worse when they stop using the cream. As with any medication, it’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions and monitor any changes in your condition.
Benefits of Homemade Eczema Cream
When dealing with sensitive skin, the ability to avoid known irritants and include soothing natural ingredients is a game-changer. Here are the key benefits:
- Cost Savings: Over-the-counter eczema creams can be costly and may not always cater to your skin’s unique requirements.
- Customization: You have complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to personalize your cream to address specific symptoms or allergies.
- Natural Ingredients: By creating a cream using natural ingredients, you avoid the potentially harmful chemicals found in some commercial products.
- Ability to adjust Scents: When making eczema cream for my daughter I like to be able to use the essential oils that work for eczema and are also appealing to her.
Tips for Using and Storing the Homemade Cream
- Use a clean spoon or spatula to scoop out the cream from the container. This will help prevent contamination and prolong the shelf life of your homemade eczema cream.
- Store the cream in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If possible, keep it in the refrigerator for added freshness.
- Check for any changes in smell, texture, or color before each use. If you notice anything off, discard the cream and make a fresh batch.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your DIY eczema cream stays fresh and effective for as long as possible.
It’s important to use eczema creams regularly and consistently to achieve the best results. Don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor about any concerns or questions you may have.
National Eczema Association
Ingredients for DIY Eczema Cream
Here’s a list of ingredients used and their reputed benefits:
- Coconut Oil: Known for its luscious texture and anti-inflammatory properties, coconut oil is a popular choice for its ability to calm and moisturize the skin.
- Mango Butter: Derived from the seed of the mango fruit, this butter is rich in antioxidants and fatty acids that help soothe dry and irritated skin.
- Lavender Essential Oil: With its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, a few drops of lavender essential oil is a staple in many DIY eczema creams.
- Melissa Essential Oil: This essential oil has potent antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for treating irritated and damaged skin.
- Tea Tree Oil: Known for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, a few drops of tea tree oil is often used to soothe and heal eczema flare-ups.
- Vitamin E Oil: If desired, some vitamin e oil is an excellent natural moisturizer and helpful for softening skin and infusing vitamins.
Homemade Eczema Treatments
- Easy Goats Milk Soap for Eczema Recipe
- Homemade Eczema Cream with Aloe Vera
- Easy Oatmeal Body Wash Recipe for Eczema
- DIY Body Butter for Eczema
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Eczema Cream
Here’s your step-by-step roadmap to creating your own eczema cream. It’s time to roll up your sleeves!
Step 1:
Begin by sterilizing all equipment you’ll use to prevent contamination. Wash your hands thoroughly and ensure that the surfaces you work on are clean.
Step 2:
In a double boiler, melt the coconut oil and mango butter together gently. Monitor the temperature so the oils do not get too hot. You can also use a glass or metal bowl inside a small pot.
Step 3:
Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes before adding your chosen essential oils. Stir well to combine.
Step 5:
When the cream becomes opaque, mix using a food processor until it turns white. Add to a clean jar and allow it to set. Add to small containers and store the extras in the refrigerator until needed. I used my mini food processor to blend the mixture.
This cream is inherently sensitive to spoilage, so looking out for any changes in smell, texture, or color is crucial. It’s good to keep your cream in the fridge and use it within a month.
Safety in preparation and storage is important, so if you’re unsure about any step or notice anything off about the cream, discard it and start anew.
The road to eczema relief is not always a smooth one, but crafting your own cream offers a path brimming with potential for personalization and natural healing. Remember, this guide is just the beginning. Your DIY cream is an evolving solution—one that you can tweak over time to harmonize with your body’s changing needs.
How to Use Eczema Cream
Using eczema cream the right way is super important for finding relief and managing symptoms over time. Start by cleaning and drying the affected area to help the cream absorb better. Grab a small amount of cream—just enough to cover the irritated skin and the surrounding spots—and gently apply it with clean fingers. Massage it into your skin using smooth, circular motions until it’s fully absorbed. It’s best to put on the cream right after a shower or bath when your skin is still a bit damp, as this helps it absorb better. If you notice any allergic reactions, discontinue use and seek medical advice.
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by red, itchy rashes. It’s common in children but can occur at any age, with symptoms that often flare up periodically and then clear up for a time. Several types of eczema exist, with the most prevalent being atopic dermatitis.
Its exact cause remains unknown, but researchers believe a combination of genes and environmental triggers plays a significant role. Triggers can include substances that come into contact with the skin, such as soaps, cosmetics, clothing, detergents, jewelry, or sweat. Stress can also play a part, as can changes in temperature and humidity.
DIY Eczema Cream Recipe
Say goodbye to eczema with this simple home remedy! Learn how to make your own DIY eczema cream in a container.
Materials
- 1/2 Cup Coconut Oil
- 1/2 Cup Mango Butter
- 20 Drops Lavender Oil
- 10 Drops Tea Tree Oil
- 10 Drops Blend of Melissa Oil (or chamomile or frankincense)
Tools
- 2 4-Ounce Containers for Storage
- Blender or Food Processor
- Double Boiler
Instructions
- Using a double boiler or something similar, melt the shea butter and coconut oil until they’re combined. I used a glass bowl inside a stainless steel pot with 1" of water.
- Once everything has melted and is well blended, add the oils. Continue to blend.
- Slightly cool the ingredients until it's thicker and opaque. You can put the solution in the refrigerator for a few minutes to speed up this process but not for long. You do not want it to harden too much.
- Using a mixer, blender or food processer, mix for several minutes until it has a frothy, white appearance, eventually developing the consistency of lotion. You can achieve this by continuing to mix about every 10 minutes. The cream will solidify when it cools.
- Transfer to mason jars or other containers.
- Store at room temperature or in the refrigerator. It will stay a bit softer at room temperature which may make it easier to apply. I like to make multiple smaller containers and store the unused ones in the fridge. This helps the cream last longer.