There are a variety of treatments available that can work effectively as an eczema cure. An eczema cream can help hydrate the skin, repair damaged tissue, and promote healing. Mild medicated creams are available without a prescription. There are also herbal creams that can moisturize dry skin. In order to choose the right cream, consider the product’s ingredients, the severity of the eczema, and personal preference.
Eczema Cream: Important Ingredient
Choose an eczema cream that contains hydrocortisone. Some of these products are sold over the counter. According to Mayo Clinic, a cream which consists of at least one percent hydrocortisone can help relieve itching. Wear gloves when using the cream to reduce the risk for infection.
For sensitive skin, try using water-based creams. These creams are quickly absorbed and need to be applied more often in order for the skin to maintain an adequate amount of moisture. In Eczema, Tim Mitchell and Alison Hepplewhite write that Aveeno cream is gentle and can help treat eczema.
Severe Eczema: Dry Skin Treatments
Oil-based ointments work better for severe eczema. The oil will create a protective layer on the skin that will help seal in moisture. This is why greasy ointments are often recommended as a dry skin treatment. Tim Mitchell and Alison Hepplewhite suggest Neutrogena dermatological cream for people with severe eczema.
Some ointments may leave the skin greasy. To avoid getting grease on furniture and clothing, cover the skin after applying the treatment. Another option is to use light creams during the day and apply the greasy ointments right before bed at night.
Natural Eczema Cure: Herbal Creams
Herbal creams can be just as effective in treating eczema as medicated solutions, according to Digestive Wellness, by Elizabeth Lipski. Lipski recommend using a cream which contains chamomile because it can offer results in as little as two weeks and is slightly more effective than hydrocortisone. Creams containing licorice root also work well because this herb has healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Aloe vera gel can also help treat eczema. Extract the gel directly from a fresh aloe vera plant or buy creams and moisturizers that contain aloe. It will help moisturize and heal the skin by repairing damaged tissue.
The article titled How to Get Rid of Acne Scars Naturally offers information on how to even out the skin tone. The article titled Scalp Psoriasis Treatment provides tips on how to effectively treat dryness of the scalp.
Sources:
MayoClinic.com, *”Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)” (accessed May 22, 2010)
Tim Mitchell and Alison Hepplewhite, Eczema, Class Publishing, December 2005
Elizabeth Lipski, Digestive Wellness, McGraw-Hill, November 1999
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