Eczema scars can be a result of excessive scratching or picking of the skin. Scratching an area for a prolonged period of time can cause the skin cells to begin to grow. The aftermath can lead to an exaggeration of normal skin markings and a thickening of the skin (lichenification). It can be uncomfortable for more severe cases of Eczema.
There are no cures in treating Eczema scars, but there are a number of treatments that can help improve the symptoms by softening the scar tissue. Here are the top 8 home remedies to improving Eczema scars.
1. DON’T Scratch!
Easier said than done. However not scratching is key to improving Eczema severity. By not scratching, you are preventing the formation of scar tissue. Scratching highly damages your skin and can increase the chances of scarring.
What can prevent triggers for scratching? Many things. Here are some articles to consider:
2. Chamomile
Something I used as a child and saw great improvements to my Eczema. Highly known for its antioxidant properties, Chamomile is a medicinally recognized plant that promotes skin health by tightening the skin and improving complexion.
A 2014 study showed that Chamomile lotion can be equally effective as hydrocortisone, making it a natural alternative to the cream.
Chamomile cream/lotion can be bought over-the-counter, so no prescription is needed. Chamomile tea can be used to massaged into the skin as an alternative.
3. Oatmeal Baths
A well-known and popular method to help combat Eczema, oatmeal. They contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can rejuvenate the skin. Oatmeal baths can be used to improve skin health and treat skin disorders.
It is recommended that you soak your body in a lukewarm oatmeal bath for around 30 minutes daily to help remove dead skin cells and to reduce scaring. The oatmeal can be used as an exfoliant to return moisture to the skin.
Aveeno, one of the biggest brands in the Eczema industry, uses colloidal oatmeal as one of their primary ingredients. If you do not react well to Aveeno, you may want to contact a dermatologist to see if you have an insensitivity to oats.
4. Hemp Seed Oil
A product that is getting more popular to this day. Hemp seed oil comes from the seeds of the Cannabis sativa plant. It has many nutritional antioxidants, like omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. These acids are needed to build healthy skin cells and reduce scar marks.
If used for Eczema, the oil should be diluted with a carrier oil directly to the affected area. Massage the oil in the skin for a deeper penetration. Studies have highlighted that hempseed oil can be used an effective treatment for Eczema as it strengthens the skin to withstand infections.
5. Honey
Tasty! But it should be noted that we are not talking about any kind of honey as different honeys have different qualities. Manuka honey is the one recognized for its wound healing properties.
Honey in general is known for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and healing properties. It should be noted that you should consult your doctor before trying honey as a treatment. Despite the positive studies recognizing the benefits of applying Manuka honey, it can worsen symptoms.
6. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
Apple cider vinegar has many uses, but did you know it can be used as an exfoliant? It can help to remove dead skin and stimulate healthy skin growth. It is well known for its antiseptic and antibiotic properties.
Apple cider vinegar has the vitamins and nutrients needed to regenerate skin cells. When applying, dilute a small amount with water. Apply to your skin and leave it for a few minutes before washing the mixture off with water.
Along with oatmeal, it can be used to exfoliate your skin and soothe Eczema symptoms in baths. Be sure to use the right amount of dilution to prevent irritation. Consult a doctor or dermatologist for more feedback.
7. Aloe Vera
‘A wonder plant’. Aloe Vera has been used to treat various health conditions for thousands of years. It is a medicinal plant that is safe to use. It can be used to increase collagen contend and its composition of the wounds according to studies.
For Eczema, use oil or the gel on your skin overnight but ensure that you rinse it off in the morning. It is possible to extract fresh aloe from the plant leaves, but in terms of accessibility, you can gels over the counter.
8. Turmeric
Our final natural remedy to improve Eczema scars, turmeric. A herb well known for its anti-inflammatory properties that contains curcumin. Curcumin is a rich in antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties compound.
To read our article on Turmeric, visit this link.
Turmeric cream can help speed up wound healing and reduce scarring for Cesarean wounds according to a 2015 study.
Top tip, you can actually mix honey and turmeric together for a more effective paste to treat Eczema scars. Apply the paste and let it sit on your skin for 10-20 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water.
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