Aloe Vera for Eczema: How it Helps

Posted on February 10, 2021

Suffering from skin conditions is a nuisance and affects your daily life. Being exposed to irritants, pollutants and chemicals in everyday products can trigger flare-ups and exacerbate the condition.

Instead of using harsh products, aloe vera can help your eczema without the side effects. Interested? Here’s why aloe vera for eczema is a godsend.

What is eczema?

Eczema, or dermatitis is a chronic condition that causes dry, itchy skin. Oftentimes, eczema can be a response to allergens or irritants, but unclear flare-ups can also occur. Eczema can also occur in bouts, reappearing and disappearing over different life stages.

There are a variety of treatment options for eczema, including prescription medication, ointments and natural remedies.

Aloe vera is a very soothing and natural remedy for inflammatory skin conditions like eczema. In fact, aloe vera was used for centuries to aid and cool irritated skin.

What is aloe vera?

Aloe vera is a very nutritious plant that contains a rich gel used for a variety of properties. Aloe vera gel is commonly used to treat sunburns, wounds, rashes and other skin conditions, as well as for hair and beauty purposes. Aloe vera is rich in over 75 nutrients, some of which exert anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Aloe vera includes vitamin E, enzymatic compounds, and nourishing elements.

The benefits and applications of aloe vera gel are endless, and can be used in many versatile ways to suit your health goals. 

Benefits for eczema:

Aloe vera contains a variety of anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal agents. For sufferers of eczema, this can be particularly useful to treat the root of the condition.

Here’s how aloe vera can help eczema:

• Soothe and cool itching: Can’t stop scratching? Aloe vera’s cooling properties can help reduce itching and irritation. Keep your aloe vera in the fridge for extra cooling effects when applied.
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  Reduce inflammation and swelling: Eczema sufferers can often present with hives and a rash from itching. Aloe vera’s anti-inflammatory nutrients can help reduce the root of the problem by directly treating the inflammation.
• Moisturize and protect: Those with eczema, particularly children, can experience severe dry, cracked skin. As your skin is the first line of defence, keeping it sealed with moisture is essential to prevent the entry of pathogens, allergens and irritants via the skin’s barrier. Locking in the moisture with the help of aloe vera’s polysaccharides will help keep your skin smooth, moisturized and sealed against any harmful compounds.
• Reduce infection: Due to containing antimicrobial and anti-bacterial agents, aloe vera can help reduce infections that present with eczema that cause further irritation.

How to use it:

Aloe vera can be used in a variety of ways to soothe and reduce eczema flare-ups.

• Firstly, keep aloe vera in the fridge to increase the cooling properties, and help keep your gel fresher for longer.
• Clean the area with mild soap and water, or take a warm shower. Once you’ve dried off, liberally apply aloe vera gel to your affected skin and allow it to dry before putting on your clothes.
• Apply aloe vera gel 2-3 times per day for soothing relief, or use if you are experiencing bouts of itching to cool down the skin.

Choosing an aloe vera product:

With the abundance of aloe vera products on the market, it can be difficult to choose the best one for your eczema. Always opt for an aloe vera product that is free from fragrances, alcohol, preservatives and harsh chemicals.

Choosing a pure and natural aloe vera product with at least 99% purity is the best option to choose. Aloe vera is an ideal DIY home remedy product. You can add carrier oils, like coconut oil to your aloe vera when applying to provide additional moisturizing properties.

As natural aloe vera is preservative free, always keep your aloe vera product in the fridge - particularly if you live in a hot climate.

Conclusion

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