What Is Eczema?

Atopic Dermatitis (which is often called eczema) is an itchy, red rash. It can appear all over the body. Many people have it on their elbows or behind their knees. Babies often have eczema on the face, especially the cheeks and chin.

They can also have it on the scalp, trunk (chest and back), and outer arms and legs. Children and adults tend to have eczema on the neck, wrists, and ankles, and in areas that bend, like the inner elbow and knee. People with eczema are usually diagnosed with it when they are babies or young children.

Eczema symptoms often become less severe as children grow into adults. For some people, eczema continues into adulthood. Less often, it can start in adulthood. The rash of eczema is different for each person. It may even look different or affect different parts of your body from time to time. It can be mild, moderate, or severe.

Generally, people with eczema suffer from dry, sensitive skin. Eczema is also known for its intense itch. The itch may be so bad that you scratch your skin until it bleeds, which can make your rash even worse, leading to even more inflammation and itching. This is called the itch-scratch cycle. source

At just about any store you can find a wide array of pharmaceuticals, creams, even steroids to treat eczema, but many contain chemicals that have the potential to be harmful – or worse – further irritate the problem.

Essential Oils For Eczema – What Works: 

Lavender

Lavender is one of the most versatile Essential Oils. Acting as an antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory, it also will calm, moisturize, and promote healing to the effected area.

Frankincense

Frankincense is one of our very favorites – it can enhance the properties of Oils it is combined with, as well as act as a great anti-inflammatory. From bible times through today, this has always been and still is a great go-to!

Melaleuca

Widely regarded for its antibacterial, antiseptic, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties, Melaleuca Essential Oil is a wonderful oil to promote healing and recovery, as well as acting as an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antibacterial, and antiviral – not to mention its great scent!

Geranium

Geranium Essential Oil smells lovely, and also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties to aid in reducing effected areas.

Helichrysum

Helichrysum has been known to aid with itching! Great for reducing the need to scratch irritated or broken skin.

Cedarwood

Cedar wood has been known to promote healthy cell production, as well as bring great balance to the skin’s sebum (it’s own natural oil).

Another great way to combat Eczema is with our DIY Body Butter – Feel free to substitute in any of the above oils for added benefits and to further promote healing against eczema and dry skin!