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The 3 Best Natural Oils for Eczema Recommended by Dermatologists

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

As you already know, there are several alternative therapies that can help relieve eczema. From healing your gut with probiotics (see our blog post: Can Probiotics Help Eczema? Studies About Probiotics and Eczema Indicate Yes!) to delving into homeopathic medicine (see our blog post: How Does Homeopathy for Eczema Work?) and so much more…

This week, we look at the top 3 natural oils for eczema as recommended by dermatologist Dr. Peter Lio (1): Sunflower Seed, Coconut and Evening Primrose and how they can be incorporated into a treatment for effective relief.

Please keep in mind that although these tips and information have worked for several eczema sufferers, I am in no way a medical professional. If you’re experiencing severe eczema or have a topical infection, it is always best to seek medical advice immediately.

Natural Oils for Eczema

Sunflower Seed

Each of our bodies produce a type of fat known as ceramides that help protect the skin barrier from infection. Sunflower seed oil makes it into this list of the best oils for eczema as it can stimulate natural ceramide production.

There have been many studies done that show that sunflower seed oil has both anti-inflammatory and skin barrier restoring effects. (2) “Linoleic acid is the major lipid that converts to arachidonic acid, which leads to prostaglandin E2, an inflammatory modulator, possibly via peroxisome proliferative-activated receptor-a (PPAR-a) activation. These anti-inflammatory aspects are very compelling for our menagerie of inflammatory dermatoses,” according to Dr. Peter Lio.

How to use Sunflower Seed Oil?

The best and easiest way to introduce sunflower seed oil into your life, is by incorporating it into your skin regime. Try to find an oil that is cold pressed and organic, which will ensure the maximum nutrients are obtained and not released when processed at high temperatures. Adding a small amount of sunflower seed oil to the skin when wet will help the oil easily absorb.

Emily Skin Soothers makes some great balms featuring Chinese herbs in a sunflower seed oil and beeswax base. Try their Super Dry Skin Soother for thick, dry eczema or their Hot Skin Soother for red, weeping or angry looking eczema.

Coconut Oil

We’ve already discussed several reasons why coconut oil is one of the best oils for eczema in our post: Everything You Should Know About Using Coconut Oil for Eczema; however one standout study worth a mention showed that (3) “topically applied coconut oil decreased staphylococcal colonization [skin that is colonized by staph bacteria] by 95 percent in patients with atopic dermatitis when applied twice daily for four weeks.”

How to use Coconut Oil?

There are several ways you can use coconut oil both externally and internally to help relieve eczema.

When looking for coconut oil, you want to make sure to opt for cold pressed Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil. Be careful! Not all coconut oils are made equal (and neither are all natural skincare products that include coconut oil). Coconut oil can either be ingested as a supplement or easily added to your diet. Try incorporating the oil either as a cooking oil or in a smoothie for a coconut-y flavor!

Coconut oil pulling is also popular among those who suffer from eczema, psoriasis and allergies. This technique is an old detoxification method that involves swishing around a tablespoon of coconut oil in the mouth for at least 20 minutes. Ideally it should be done a few times a week, on an empty stomach.

There are many natural products that contain organic coconut oil, such as this Coconut Aloe Moisturizing Serum that can be applied topically twice daily to heal eczema, psoriasis and rosacea. This serum also contains a small amount of aloe to provide a cooling effect and additional healing properties. For other coconut oil based products, check out Vegaline that helps fight dry, sensitive or chapped skin, as well as diaper rash. Beeseline is also a great alternative to petroleum jelly.

Evening Primrose Oil

Although studies have shown mixed results, Evening Primrose Oil has been used and recommended by several eczema sufferers. This oil contains both omega-6 fatty acids and gamma linoleic acid (another fatty acid).

How to use Evening Primrose Oil?

Similar to other fatty acids, Evening Primrose Oil is best consumed orally. You can find several brands that produce capsules of this oil, such as this one. Also Evening Primrose Oil has been shown to fight against hair loss – a double win!

These oils definitely hold some promises for alternative treatments. If you’re looking to add them to your lifestyle or diet, it is good to know that they are rather inexpensive and easily accessible.

However, it’s important to note that inflammation starts from the inside. Instead of only treating your skin with these oils or taking them orally, we suggest you conduct an elimination diet to find out which foods may be causing your eczema. For more information on success with elimination diets, check out our blog post: Our Eczema Elimination Diet Success (How You Can Do It Too!)

Do you or a loved one use any of these natural oils for eczema? Let us know in the comments below!

And for more from Dr. Peter Lio, check out these posts:

4 Tips for Parents on Managing Eczema In Children

Will Your Child Outgrow Their Eczema?

What Is the Atopic March?

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.

References:

(1, 3) Peter A. Lio, MD. Alternative Therapies in Atopic Dermatitis Care: Part 2. Practical Dermatology for Pediatrics, July/August 2011.

Peter A Lio, MD. Skin Barrier Benefits of Sunflower Seed Oil. Dermatology Times, July 13, 2015.

The 3 Best Natural Oils for Eczema Recommended by Dermatologists appeared first on itchylittleworld.com. Come read more about natural remedies for eczema!

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Eczema Natural Remedies, Herbal And Natural Oils And Treatments To Clear Eczema

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When you look at all the options out there today, eczema natural remedies are by far the best. Sure there are prescription medicines as well, but you want to clear the skin with the least amount of side effects.

They can definitely help, but it’s still important to do the research and understand their uses.

You can find several herbs and oils that are considered eczema natural remedies. Each one of them can help with one or more symptoms that are present.

Peppermint is a great place to start, especially if you want to get rid of the itching. If you rub a drop of peppermint oil on the affected area you will see results. Just make sure it’s properly diluted.

There are also eczema natural remedies that work as antiseptics. Patchouli can clean the affected area and control outbreaks at the same time.

While both of these are great you can also try tea tree oil. It’s considered one of the most popular options out there and can help clear up eczema patches. Tea tree oil also helps relieve itching, reduces redness, and will take down swelling. Oh, and if you want to use a lotion, cream, or even a cleanser; make sure this is one of the active ingredients.

Then again; you can also try something like taking an oatmeal bath. All you have to do is purchase some natural oatmeal, place it in a cheesecloth and tie it. Then just drop it in the bath and let it circulate while you sit there.

During this time we highly recommend you refrain from using soaps and cleansers. Once you’re finished you can apply Aloe Vera to the affected areas, which will soothe the skin.

By following a natural regime that is good for your eczema you will also be following a natural regime that is good for your overall health. If you use the information you learn from these eczema natural remedies and apply it to other aliments you can eventually learn to treat your body holistically and enjoy improved overall health.

Do you want to learn more about the best atopic dermatitis natural remedies? Come to my website and find lots of articles and tips about eczema homeopathic remedies to have a healthy skin.

What we know today about applying oils to newborn skin

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The use of olive or sunflower oil on newborn babies’ skin damages the skin barrier, researchers from the University of Manchester recently reported.1 This latest study adds to the conflicting information around caring for newborn skin and how to manage conditions like atopic dermatitis. Learn more
Modern medicine – Dermatology Times

The Best Essential Oils for Eczema

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By Brooke Cade (see bio below)

Eczema is a chronic skin condition that affects over 30 million Americans. Common as it may be, eczema is still an uncomfortable and sometimes debilitating condition that can compromise your quality of living.

To treat eczema, more and more people are turning away from conventional medicine to essential oils as they search for a more holistic and “big picture” remedy to their skin condition. The anti-inflammatory and stress-reducing properties of essential oils can help to promote healing and lasting change to improve your eczema for good.

In this article, learn more about the causes of eczema, who’s at risk to develop it, as well as the best essential oils for eczema.

What Causes Eczema?

The exact cause of eczema is unknown, and different people can have different triggers. However, the Mayo Clinic has listed the following factors that are likely causes of eczema:

  • Dry, irritable skin
  • Genetic conditions
  • Immune system dysfunction
  • Bacteria, particularly staphylococcus aureus
  • Environmental factors

Another characteristic of eczema is that it can manifest itself differently in different people. For example, your child may develop red, blotchy weeping eczema on his/her cheeks that they don’t seem to mind, while someone else may have dry, scaly eczema with a significant itch.

Essential Oils For Eczema

Essential oils used as a topical eczema treatments can be very effective. Be sure to consult with your doctor before trying any new treatments, and consider adapting your diet and lifestyle to address all factors that could contribute to your eczema.

Lavender Oil

Using lavender oil for eczema is very common, as lavender oil is a traditional treatment for many skin conditions. It’s derived from lavender flowers and contains linalool and linalyl aldehyde, which are known for their anti-inflammatory agents and pain reducers. It can also help to relieve the itchiness associated with eczema.

To use lavender oil to treat eczema, you can make your own homemade eczema cream with ingredients like raw shea butter and coconut oil. You can also apply lavender oil undiluted directly to your skin (just a drop or two will be fine) a few times a day until your eczema goes away. This is not recommended for children. Always dilute essential oils when applying to children’s skin.

A cream like Emily’s Itchy Eczema Baby & Adults Skin Soother or Grass Fed Tallow Balm that contain lavender oil can also help soothe and repair skin.

Sandalwood Oil

Sandalwood oil can be an effective oil for treating eczema. It is moisturizing and soothing, with anti-inflammatory and anti-itching properties. Many people also use sandalwood oil for stress relief, adding a few drops to a hot bath to promote relaxation.

Sandalwood oil isn’t recommended for pregnant women. Before using sandalwood oil, test a small portion in your skin to see if you have a reaction.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea Tree Oil is also commonly used as an essential oil for eczema for its regenerative properties to help heal broken skin and reduce inflammation and swelling associated with various skin conditions. It is also known as a powerful antiseptic that can help prevent infection in especially sore skin that has been vigorously itched. Tea tree oil isn’t recommended for children 6 years old and younger.

Manuka oil is very similar, but while tea tree can be toxic when taken orally in large doses, manuka is not. It may be worthwhile to try Manuka oil in a skin cream such as Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream. 

Great Essential Oil Bases for Eczema Treatment

One great way to benefit from essential oils is to mix it with a base oil. This creates a calming lotion that can have added benefits.

As a base for these oils, many people prefer various vegetable oils for their moisturizing properties. Using coconut oil for eczema is especially recommended for its rich, highly moisturizing properties as well as its antibacterial properties. Another great option is to add your essential oils to an oil blended with healing calendula flowers, like this Organic Calendula Oil with a base of olive oil.

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Read more: Why You Should Try Calendula For Eczema Relief

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Before using essential oils, test a small amount on your skin to ensure you aren’t allergic or susceptible to any adverse reactions and, as always, talk to your doctor about your condition and treatment methods before attempting them.

best-essential-oils-for-eczema-brookeBio: Brooke Cade is passionate about health and wellness. She enjoys writing about all the things she loves in life, including yoga, hydrotherapy, Nature’s Sunshine products, and anything related to living life to its fullest.

 

 

 

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The Best Essential Oils for Eczema

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By Brooke Cade (see bio below) Eczema is a chronic skin condition that affects over 30 million Americans. Common as it may be, eczema is still an uncomfortable and sometimes debilitating condition that can compromise your quality of living. To treat eczema, more and more people are turning away from conventional medicine to essential oils as […]
It’s an Itchy Little World

The Most Effective Essential Oils For Eczema Treatment

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Essential oils for eczema treatment have been found to be instrumental in killing pathogens on the skin as well as in soothing inflammation.  They are hardly a new fad as they have been used since time immemorial to provide relief from ailments and to rejuvenate the skin.  This long record of success makes essential oils […]

The post The Most Effective Essential Oils For Eczema Treatment appeared first on Best Eczema Remedies.

Best Eczema Remedies