Atopic dermatitis or eczema is a disorder that results in dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. Although it can happen to anybody, it is more common in young children. Atopic dermatitis is a persistent skin condition and can occasionally flare up. Although not contagious, eczema can increase the risk of developing asthma, hay fever, and food allergies. The condition does not have a permanent cure, but certain home remedies can help relieve its symptoms.

Understanding atopic dermatitis
Skin disease is a condition that causes symptoms like rashes, inflammation, itching, or other changes. Some skin diseases may be genetic, while others result from lifestyle or environmental factors. Atopic dermatitis, also called eczema, is a skin disease often triggered by environmental factors or allergens like weather changes, dampness, molds, dust mites, pollen, and pet fur. It can sometimes result from food allergies, such as intolerance to peanuts, soya, and gluten. The symptoms of atopic dermatitis can be observed anywhere on the body and differ significantly from person to person. However, some common symptoms are:

• Cracked, dry skin
• Itchy skin (pruritus)
• Small, raised bumps
• Crusting and oozing patches
• Excessively thick skin
• Darker skin around the eyes
• Skin that feels itchy and raw from scratching

Top remedies
Several home treatments can help one manage eczema symptoms like irritation, rashes, inflammation, and infection.

Use natural moisturizers
One should moisturize their skin to relieve itching and improve moisture retention. Research supports the effectiveness of the following remedies:

• Coconut oil: It helps hydrate the skin and remove germs. Applying coconut oil on wet skin twice a day can improve eczema symptoms. One must use virgin or cold-pressed coconut oil for better results.
• Sunflower oil : Sunflower oil may assist in enhancing the strength of the skin barrier and reducing inflammation when applied twice every day.
• Cardiospermum : This plant extract can help reduce bacteria, itching, and skin irritation.

Apply aloe vera gel
Aloe vera gel has been used for centuries to manage various skin diseases, including eczema. Aloe vera gel has antibacterial and anti-microbial properties, which can boost the immune system and help heal wounds. The gel can prevent skin infections that develop due to dry, cracked skin. One can get the gel at a store or pharmacy and use it several times a day.

Use apple cider vinegar solution
ACV is a popular home remedy for many skin diseases, and according to National Eczema Association, ACV can help relieve eczema symptoms. However, the organization also recommends exercising caution as excessive amounts of ACV can damage soft skin tissue. ACV helps in balancing the skin’s acidity levels and fights bacteria. Research also suggests that using ACV on the skin can fight bacteria, like E. coli and S. aureus, preventing infections. However, it is important to dilute the ACV with water to avoid burns. So, one can add a teaspoon of ACV to a cup of warm water and apply the solution using cotton. Next, one should cover the area with a clean piece of cotton cloth and leave it for at least 3 hours.

Try a mild bleach bath
This may sound strange, but research suggests that a mild bleach bath can help improve the eczema symptoms due to the solution’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Bleach can kill bacteria on the skin’s surface, including S. aureus, which causes staph infections. To prepare a bleach bath, add half a cup of bleach powder to a full bathtub or use one teaspoon of bleach per gallon of water. Also, one should pour the bleach while the bath water is filling. Next, one can soak in this bleach bath for 5 to 10 minutes and then rinse the body thoroughly with warm water. One can also use lukewarm water to prevent the skin from drying out. Also, if one experiences any discomfort, irritation, or redness, then they should step out of the bath immediately. People with breathing issues or asthma must also avoid bleach baths as they can create strong fumes.

Use oatmeal
Colloidal oatmeal, also called Avena sativa, is made using oats that have been crushed and boiled to extract their skin-healing properties. According to a 2015 study, lotions with oats were found to be an effective solution in relieving eczema symptoms. These lotions have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce skin dryness, scaling, roughness, and itch intensity. One can either get powdered colloidal oatmeal and add it to warm bath water or choose a moisturizer with oats as the primary ingredient and regularly apply it on their skin. Even though colloidal oatmeal is safe for all ages, people with oat or gluten allergies must avoid using oat products.

Try turmeric
Turmeric is a herb that can help improve eczema symptoms. Numerous studies have revealed that applying turmeric helps improve skin disease symptoms. A 2015 study discovered that topical application of turmeric helped relieve eczema-related itching, swelling, and redness. Further, adding 3g to 4g of turmeric to daily meals can also help one manage atopic dermatitis.

Choose foods with vitamin E
Vitamin E is crucial for maintaining the proper functioning of the immune system. It also shields skin cells from free radical damage. In a study, kids with the highest compounds associated with vitamin E had a 67% lower chance of developing eczema and asthma than those with the lowest levels. Skin-friendly foods, like wheat germ oil, sunflower seeds, almonds, hazelnuts, sunflower oil, and pine nuts, which are excellent sources of vitamin E, can help manage eczema.

Use honey
Eczema may worsen when harmful microorganisms enter the skin. Honey’s antibacterial properties can help eliminate these undesirable organisms to relieve itching. Honey can be added to snacks or used topically after combining it with equal parts of olive oil and beeswax. Honey can help lower inflammation, improving the body’s ability to deal with skin diseases.

Apply tea tree oil
Tea tree oil, extracted from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, can help fight skin issues, including eczema. A 2013 study suggests that tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and healing properties. One can use this oil by diluting it with carrier oils, like coconut, almond, or olive oil, before applying it.