Oils for Life: Eczema Relief

Winter weather is upon us (at times), the cold air means the mercury is plunging and this can cause eczema symptoms to spike. For many with eczema, extreme cold can cause breakouts because the skin becomes too dry. For those unaware, eczema is a skin condition that causes itchy, red, and swollen patches of skin. The most common type is called atopic dermatitis

Moisturizing well is the best way to ease the symptoms associated with eczema, there are many lotions and creams (prescription and non prescription) that treat eczema. However, if you're looking for a more natural way to treat symptoms try sunflower oil. You can either find cleansing or moisturizing products that contain sunflower oil, or you can actually apply the oil directly to your skin.

Due to its emollient properties, sunflower oil helps the skin retain its moisture. Using sunflower oil as a lotion acts as a protective barrier and helps in reducing skin infection. If you have a pre-term infant, it can be used daily and has been shown to reduce skin infections by 14%. Sunflower oil is extremely high in Vitamin E which is essential for preventing damage to the skin cells. Vitamin E improves the appearance and health of your skin, scarring and smoothing of existing wrinkles.

It's also rich in vitamins A, C and D and healthy carotenoids and waxes which form a protective barrier on the skin. Sunflower oil is also an excellent source of beta-carotene, which protects your skin against the sun. Sunflower oil has antioxidant properties that help prevent premature signs of aging, It's wonderful for dry, dehydrated, or sensitive skin.

One great mix for sunflower oil is using it with castor oil, the combination will effectively get rid of dead skin cells and irritating foreign materials. This mixture can be used as a cleanser and there is no need to use a moisturizer, because these oils actually have vitamins and fatty acids that will keep your skin soft and smooth. This mix will help prevent any further eczema outbreaks, and provide much needed relief.

Another mix I like is sunflower and coconut oil, coconut oil is very moisturizing and healing by itself. Coconut oil contains saturated fats which are medium chain fatty acids or triglycerides. When applied to the skin, they keep it smooth to the touch. It also contains Capric /Caprylic/Lauric acid which have have strong disinfectant and antimicrobial properties. Another component is vitamin E which is essential for healthy skin growth, and repair of wear and tear on the skin.

Using sunflower and coconut oil is probably one of my favorite mixes, its not too thick and it works wonders during the winter. Coconut oil is my go to oil for skin uses, and gives me an extra layer of insulation and warmth in the winter. When using sunflower oil it's important to remember to use it on dry skin only, do not use it on red inflamed skin. As a disclaimer I am not a doctor, so I always recommend consulting with your physician first. Hopefully, these methods help provide some relief for you this winter. Please leave a comment with methods you've used, or on how helpful these have been for you!

Love and Light!
Amira