Atopic dermatitis or eczema is a chronic skin condition characterized by inflamed, itchy, and dry skin. When you have this condition, your skin often flares up, which causes redness, itching, and soreness. In some cases, blisters may also form.
Since your skin is itchy most of the time during flare-ups, you might be tempted to scratch it. However, this can cause more irritation and make the condition worse.
The best way to treat atopic dermatitis is by avoiding the triggers of your flare-ups. But following these home remedies on how to stop eczema itching immediately may also make you feel a whole lot better.
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Apply Cold Compress
You can relieve your eczema itch by making the affected area cooler. To do this, simply take a washcloth or gauze and wet it using cold water. Then, apply the cold compress to the affected area and hold it in place for at least 10 minutes. You can also use a store-bought cold compress or a pack of frozen vegetables to help relieve your eczema itch.
Cooling the area where you’re flaring up can help numb your skin. This reduces the itching sensation and makes it easier for you to resist the urge to scratch.
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Take an Oatmeal Bath
Eczema-prone skin loves oatmeal baths since it’s one of the best natural ways to relieve eczema itching. To make an oatmeal bath, simply grind about 2 cups of oatmeal into a fine powder in your food processor or blender. Then, add the oatmeal powder to your warm bathwater and soak in it for at least 15 minutes to get relief from your itching.
After soaking, do not rinse your skin. Instead, lightly pat your skin dry and apply a hypoallergenic lotion specially formulated for eczema to help seal the moisture in your skin longer.
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Wear the Right Clothing
During flare-ups, your skin will be more sensitive and prone to irritation. So, as much as possible, you want to make sure that the materials you wear on your skin are gentle and breathable.
Choose comfortable clothing made of natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, or silk. Synthetic materials such as polyester might be too scratchy or rough and can often cause more irritation, so make sure to avoid them at all costs.
Also, make sure to wash your clothes with a hypoallergenic detergent specifically designed for sensitive skin to help minimize any irritation.
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Use a Humidifier
Hot and dry air can aggravate your eczema and make your skin even itchier. So, if your home or office is often too dry, you might want to consider getting a humidifier. A humidifier will add moisture to the air inside your home, help keep your skin moisturized, and reduce the amount of itching you experience due to eczema.
Make sure to keep your humidifier clean. Cleaning it regularly will help you prevent bacteria and fungi growth, which can otherwise be harmful to your health.
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Try Relaxation Techniques
It might not seem obvious, but stress and anxiety can actually trigger and worsen your eczema. If you want to relieve your eczema itch, you should try different relaxation techniques that will help take your mind off of how you’re feeling.
You can try deep breathing and meditation to help calm your mind and body. You can also read a book or listen to calming music. Doing any of these activities might help distract you from the itching sensation so that you won’t feel tempted to scratch your skin.
Keep Your Skin Healthy During Flare-Ups
Eczema can be really irritating and uncomfortable, but it doesn’t have to ruin your life. By following these home remedies on how to stop eczema itching immediately, you can help keep your skin healthy even during your flare-ups.