How to Heal Eczema Fast

Last Updated: June 19, 2020 References

Eczema is a condition where your skin becomes inflamed and irritated. The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but it's thought to be linked to an overactive response by the body's immune system to an irritant. It is this response that causes the symptoms of eczema. Although there is no cure, most people can effectively manage their disease with medical treatment and by avoiding irritants. The condition is not contagious and can't be spread from person to person.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Using Creams and Baths

1
Apply an anti-itch cream. You can get anti-itch creams over-the-counter at your local drugstore. Look for calamine lotion or cream formulated for red, irritated skin that contains at least 1 percent hydrocortisone. Apply it to the affected area for instant relief.
- You may keep anti-itch creams on hand at home or in your bag so you can apply it when your eczema flares up.
2
Use a cool compress on the area.^{[1]
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Expert Source

Mohiba Tareen, MD
FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist
Expert Interview. 26 March 2020.} Wet a clean cloth and place it on the affected area. This can help to reduce the inflammation and irritation. You can then replace the cool compress with a fresh one until the eczema becomes less intense.
- Having the cool compress on the area can also dissuade you from itching or scratching at the area.
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3
Put coconut oil on the area. Coconut oil is a great moisturizer and can help to soothe your eczema. Apply coconut oil generously to the area and let it dry. You can get coconut oil online or at your local health food store.
- You can apply the coconut oil after a cool bath or a warm bath with essential oils and oatmeal.
4
Have a warm bath with essential oils and oatmeal.^{[2]
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Expert Source

Mohiba Tareen, MD
FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist
Expert Interview. 26 March 2020.} Fill the bathtub with warm water. Then add uncooked oatmeal and essential oils like eucalyptus, lavender, and tea tree. Soak in the bath for 10 to 15 minutes.^{[3]
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Trustworthy Source
National Eczema Association
Nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of those with eczema through research and education
Go to source}
- After 10-15 minutes, rinse your body off with warm water and pat dry with a clean towel.
- After the warm bath, you can apply anti-itch cream to help soothe the eczema.
- You may want to test these products first to ensure they don’t further irritate your eczema.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Adjusting Your Diet and Lifestyle

1
Cut down on foods high in sugar, fat, and preservatives.^{[4]
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Expert Source

Mohiba Tareen, MD
FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist
Expert Interview. 26 March 2020.} Eczema has been linked to junk food and a poor diet. Avoid foods that are inflammatory, such as fried foods, foods with artificial sugars, and foods high in preservatives. Instead, go for foods that are fresh and high in nutrients, such as vegetables, fruits, and healthy sources of protein like chicken, tofu, and beans.^{[5]
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- Talk to your doctor before you make any major changes to your diet. Do not change your diet drastically and suddenly without speaking to your doctor first.
- Apples, oranges, kiwi, and tomatoes are common culprits of eczema.
2
Avoid eggs and dairy. Eggs and dairy have been shown to cause skin issues for some people, especially if you have an allergy or sensitivity to these foods. Try cutting eggs and dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt out of your diet.^{[6]
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Trustworthy Source
National Health Service (UK)
Public healthcare system of the UK
Go to source}
- If you notice your eczema improves once you remove eggs and dairy from your diet, you may have an allergy to these foods. You can get your doctor to do an allergy test to confirm your allergy so you can cut these foods out of your diet completely.
- Peanuts, soy, wheat, and fish can also exacerbate symptoms.
3
Reduce your stress levels. Eczema is also tied to stress and anxiety. Try to reduce your stress levels so your eczema does not flare up. Do a calming activity like reading, writing, or watching television. Go to a yoga class or take a long walk outside. Hang out with friends to help blow off some steam and keep your stress levels down.^{[7]
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- You can also try doing a five minute meditation to center your mind and stay calm. Do deep breathing to help you stay relaxed.
4
Wear breathable clothing. Go for tops and bottoms made of cotton or other breathable materials like linen or hemp. Avoid clothing in synthetic materials or non-breathable materials like wool. Wearing breathable clothing will ensure your skin does not become more irritated by your clothing.
- You should also wear appropriate workout clothing when you exercise or sweat, as this can prevent your eczema from flaring up. Remember that exercise can make your eczema worse.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Speaking to Your Doctor

1
Ask your doctor for prescription treatments for your eczema. Eczema is a chronic condition. Speak to your doctor about getting prescription treatments for the condition. They may recommend a prescription anti-itch cream or an oral medication you can take to address your eczema.
- You can then apply the prescription treatments whenever you get a flare up so it heals more quickly.
- Always read the black box warning on eczema prescription medications.
2
Get tested for food allergies. Eczema can often be caused by food allergies. Determining what your food allergies are can make it easier for you to avoid them and keep your eczema under control. Talk to your doctor about getting an allergy test done by a dermatologist.^{[8]
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3
Discuss alternative treatments for eczema with your doctor. Alternative treatments like light therapy, wet dressing application, and biofeedback are options for addressing eczema. Ask your doctor about alternative therapies you can try to address your condition.^{[9]
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- Your doctor may then be able to recommend specialists who can perform the alternative therapies on your safely and effectively.

Expert Q&A

Question

What's the best way to treat my eczema so it's not as irritating?

Mohiba Tareen, MD
FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist
Mohiba Tareen is a board certified Dermatologist and the founder of Tareen Dermatology located in Roseville, Maplewood and Faribault, Minnesota. Dr. Tareen completed medical school at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where she was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha honor society. While a dermatology resident at Columbia University in New York City, she won the Conrad Stritzler award of the New York Dermatologic Society and was published in The New England Journal of Medicine. Dr. Tareen then completed a procedural fellowship which focused on dermatologic surgery, laser, and cosmetic dermatology.

Mohiba Tareen, MD

FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist

Expert Answer

Apply a gentle moisturizer on the affected area of skin to prevent it from drying out and cracking. You can also switch to a low-fat diet to help.
Question

How do you soothe eczema naturally?

Mohiba Tareen, MD
FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist
Mohiba Tareen is a board certified Dermatologist and the founder of Tareen Dermatology located in Roseville, Maplewood and Faribault, Minnesota. Dr. Tareen completed medical school at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where she was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha honor society. While a dermatology resident at Columbia University in New York City, she won the Conrad Stritzler award of the New York Dermatologic Society and was published in The New England Journal of Medicine. Dr. Tareen then completed a procedural fellowship which focused on dermatologic surgery, laser, and cosmetic dermatology.

Mohiba Tareen, MD

FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist

Expert Answer

Try applying a cool compress to your eczema to soothe irritation and inflammation.