Ways to Reduce Itching Caused by Eczema
Apr 20th 2020
Inflamed, itchy, red, cracked, and rough skin. This is probably a scene you’re used to seeing because you have eczema. It’s a real downer, especially if these symptoms start to interrupt your usual routine.
While the cause of eczema has remained unknown, one thing is for sure: scratching won’t do you any good. Don’t give in to that urges and follow these tips and tricks to reduce itch instead:
1. Take a Bath
For some people, bathing often may result in skin dryness and worsen eczema. However, when done right, a bath can be an excellent treatment to reduce itchiness.
Make sure to bathe or shower at least once a day using lukewarm water; altogether avoid using water that’s too hot or too cold. Use gentle cleansers instead of harsh soap and avoid scrubbing the skin. Do not bathe for more than 15 minutes because long hot showers can remove natural oils and moisture,
As well, it would be worth giving medicinal baths a try like using oatmeal, baking soda, and vinegar. Just ensure proper research beforehand.
Finally, it’s crucial to moisturize within 3 minutes after taking a bath to seal in moisture. Gently pat the skin with a towel and apply your moisturizer before the skin is completely dried.
2. Choose the Right Ointment
Speaking of application, you have to be extra meticulous when it comes to using products for your skin as one wrong ingredient can worsen your condition. It is best to opt for all-natural ointments that are truly designed to offer temporary relief from eczema. Avoid toxins, fillers, synthetic colors, and artificial fragrances.
Our Rash, Itch & Burn Ointment THC FREE and Rash, Itch & Burn Ointment with CBD contain only organic ingredients to bring a remedy that temporarily relieves rashes including, Eczema, Psoriasis and Dermatitis, extreme itchiness, burns, and dryness.
If you are curious about using CBD for eczema, read here.
3. Try Acupressure
Pressing a certain spot on your arm may help ease eczema itch anywhere on your body. This is according to a study conducted at Northwestern University.
Here’s how you can use acupressure to ease that itch:
- While bending your left arm, place your right hand on the outside of the crook of your elbow.
- Feel and find the top of the forearm muscle.
- Using your fingertip, massage firmly for 3 minutes, keeping in mind to breathe deeply.
4. Apply Cool Compress
Another quick way to ease your skin from itch is to make a compress to cool the skin. Do this by soaking a clean towel or washcloth in cold water. Wring it until damp and apply the cool compress to the itch. For a more intense relief, grab an ice pack or a bag of frozen veggies to use instead.
Although it may take up to 10 minutes before it could work, the cold helps numb the area. Once done with applying the compress, apply moisturizer.
5. Practice Relaxation Techniques
Itch caused by eczema could lead to stress, and at the same time, stress is a common eczema trigger. Avoid stress altogether to help reduce eczema flare-ups by doing some relaxation techniques.Here are some ideas:
- Meditation
- Deep breathing
- Music therapy
- Hypnosis
- Yoga
- Tai Chi
Some apps can help you de-stress like ones that offer assistance in your breathing exercises or one that helps with your meditations. Pick something convenient for you and your lifestyle.
6. Avoid Scratching
We know, it’s easier said than done. The tips above are remedies and even distractions that could prevent you from scratching. However, another great way to keep your hands off that skin is by covering the itchy area, making sure you always have trimmed nails, and even going as far as wearing gloves.
Top Eczema triggers to avoid
Something in your surroundings (or your fridge!) right now could be a trigger for your Eczema to act up. Here are items that you should avoid.
Food:
- dairy
- eggs
- gluten or wheat
- citrus fruits
- soy
- tomatoes
- some types of nuts
Others:
- dry air
- sweat
- perfumed soap or body wash
- soaps with dyes
- wool clothing
- tight clothing
- polyester
- nylon
- rayon
- animal dander
- mold
- dust mites
- perfumed detergents