5 Things To Treat Eczema

1. Moisturizer

After bathing, use a heavy cream-based moisturiser to guard the skin against irritants. Look for an aqueous cream or emulsifying ointment. Even Vaseline or solid cooking margarine works well. Avoid lotions that have a high water content.

(Photo by Thinkstock)

2. Milk

To soothe itching, soak a face cloth in ice-cold milk and lay it over the itchy area. Repeat several times a day.

(Photo by Thinkstock)

3. Colloidal Oatmeal

Add colloidal oatmeal, such as Aveeno, to the bath. This finely ground oatmeal floats suspended in the water and is soothing to itchy skin. It is available from pharmacies.

(Photo by Thinkstock)

4. Avoid Hot Water

Keep baths and showers under 10 minutes. Use lukewarm water and don't bathe every day if you don't have to. Eczema can get worse when skin is dry and excessive bathing washes away the protective oils that keep your skin moist.

(Photo by Thinkstock)

5. Zinc

Zinc helps your skin heal, and it also helps your body make use of essential fatty acids. Take 30 milligrams of zinc daily.

(Photo by Thinkstock)

Want more handy uses for your everyday objects?

Check out our 5 Things page!