How to treat eczema without a prescription?
Eczema is a common skin condition characterized by red patches, intense itching, and dry lesions. There are different types of eczema, such as atopic eczema and contact eczema. While consulting a dermatologist is recommended for persistent symptoms, it is possible to treat eczema without a prescription using natural remedies and specific products.
Hydration: an essential step
Hydration is crucial for relieving eczema, especially for dry skin and atopic skin. Daily use of a suitable moisturizing cream helps restore the skin barrier and prevent eczema flare-ups. Creams enriched with shea butter are particularly beneficial, as they intensely nourish the skin while soothing irritation. Apply these treatments several times a day, especially after showering, to keep skin supple and prevent feelings of tightness.
Choose gentle products for the skin
Skin types affected by eczema require gentle cleansing products. Opt for cleansing oils rather than traditional soaps, which are often too harsh. These oils gently cleanse without drying out the skin, thus preserving the lipid barrier. It is also recommended to avoid hot water, which worsens skin dryness, by opting for lukewarm showers.
Soothe itching
Itching is one of the most uncomfortable symptoms of eczema. For an anti-itch effect, use soothing creams containing natural ingredients like colloidal oatmeal or calendula oil. These active ingredients reduce inflammation and quickly soothe irritation. Applying a cold compress to affected areas can also provide immediate relief.
Strengthen the skin barrier
Atopic eczema is linked to an imbalance in the immune system, making the skin more vulnerable to external aggressors. By strengthening the skin barrier, you can limit the appearance of new flare-ups. Opt for ceramide-rich treatments, which help restore the epidermis's structure. Products based on evening primrose oil or shea butter are also recommended for their restorative and protective action.
Avoid triggers
To prevent eczema flare-ups, it is essential to identify and avoid common irritants. Atopic skin often reacts to synthetic fabrics, harsh detergents, or allergens. Opt for cotton clothing and use a hypoallergenic laundry detergent. Also, avoid scratching red patches, as this can worsen inflammation and lead to secondary infections.
Complementary Natural Treatments
Natural remedies can also help to treat eczema. Applying virgin coconut oil to dry areas deeply soothes and moisturizes the skin. Aloe vera gel is another valuable ally: it calms itching and speeds up the healing of lesions. Colloidal oatmeal baths are also very effective in soothing irritated skin.
Monitoring Symptom Changes
Even if these solutions help relieve eczema, it's important to monitor the evolution of eczema symptoms. If the patches become infected or if the eczema worsens despite care, a medical consultation is necessary. Severe cases sometimes require specific treatments, such as corticosteroid or immunomodulator creams, which are only available by prescription.
By adopting a routine adapted to eczema types and the specific needs of dry skin and atopic skin, it is possible to control this skin condition and reduce new flare-ups without needing medicinal treatments.