Eczema Tips posted by our readers: the information provided here is for the purpose of general reference only, it is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Under no circumstances should it replace the expert care and advice of a qualified physician. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, you should consult your own health care provider. We shall not be held responsible, for whatsoever reason, in any eventualities.

Eczema / Excema: Treatment Tip: - Try natural methods instead of useless drug prescriptions. Here's what I believe to be working: Aloe Vera Gel is very good for soothing and repairing damaged skin (you can buy a gel at your local health shop or invest in a plant and squeeze the gel out from that). However, you must have patience for aloe as it does not work immediately. If your skin becomes slightly dry from using aloe, I would recommend using olive oil throughout the day and just apply a thin layer of aloe at night and wash it off in the morning. You can also try drinking apple cider vinegar and honey to cleanse your immune system or even drinking a cup of tomato juice a day can help a bunch. Don't ever think you can't cure eczema.. believe me, I know the psychological AND physical effects are very distressing, but just persevere and try different things until you find a solution. Good luck to everyone reading this and God bless you. - Sarah, Glasgow

Eczema / Excema: Treatment Tip: - Earth Therapeutics: cocoa butter skin repair balm has helped my 2 year old's eczema patches clear up and I only use glycerin soap (non-scented) to bathe her. - Michele, San Francisco

Eczema / Excema: Treatment Tip: - Clorox Baths
A few days ago, in the news (May 2009), it was reported that most eczema may be caused by a skin bacteria (S. aureus). Seems the immune system in some people really go to town trying to kill off skin surface bacteria by coming up through the skin to kill it off. In most people it causes no problems. I then did some research, and it looks like this theory has been around for awhile. Here is a Google Search link that has a lot of info about using their reported remedy for this...bathing in bleach/Clorox. Several years ago when my husband was bedridden, and developed a horrible bedsore, we ordered a "spray" remedy from Bethrum Research Co. I remember telling my sister... I paid a lot for this and it's nothing but sodium hypochlorite (bleach) and water!!! But that tells me bleach must be perfectly safe if you can use it on an open bedsore, and it can actually help heal it!
- JP, San Diego

Eczema / Excema: Treatment Tip: Cider Vinegar
I used to break out, chap, pus and bleed all over my hands until I switched my soap to Dr. Bronners unscented soap, also applying coconut oil to affected areas whenever possible. Also mix 2 capfuls of Bragg apple cider vinegar into water twice a day. I got my eczema controlled from my complete hands down to one side of my finger! - Bill, Honolulu

Eczema / Excema Tip: Lemon juice
This lemon thing, as strange as it sounds, has helped me but I was at a desperation point. I mostly have exema on face, neck and arms. I have had it since I was a newborn. I was soooo irritated and red as a tomato that one night I got tired of the ever so frustrating scratching accompanied by watery oozing (those of you with excema know what I'm talking about--this is as bad as it gets). That I nite I could not sleep because of the constant itch. I was so desperate that I got up grabbed a lemon, cut it in half. Then I put it on the grill or a hot surface like a pan. I put some salt on, let it cool a bit and put it on. Yeah it hurt, alot!! But what I was going through hurt my skin just as much. The itching stopped and I was able to got to bed because the itching subsided. The next morning I noticed it had dried, then I stared to peel. That was one of my desperate measures with lemon--it worked. I only use it in emergencies. I do well with a fresh aloe plant at home. Also, beware of your creams. I used to purchase the big jars because I used alot of cream. My favorites were usually the thick pastey ones like Aquaphor and Eucercin. But I notice that using those after a awhile can be reaaally bad because they tend to grow bacteria and get moldy. I noticed mold one day (the jar was only about two weeks old). I soon as I stopped using it my skin improved. I am always trying new things but it is a constant battle. I just thought I'd share my experience. ~ Dee from Califorina

Eczema / Excema Tip: Cod Liver Oil
I have suffered with Eczema and I have found a simple cure I read in a book about Dry Skin. Norwegian Cod Liver Oil with 4 Oz of Whole Milk on an empty stomach in the morning and before you go to bed 3 hours after eating. Whole Foods has great Cod Oil. I amazed how easy this. I have eliminated spicy foods also. - Mike, Santa Monica

Eczema / Excema: Treatment Tip - Omegas & Cider Vinegar
Absolutely, Omega 3-6-9 vitamin. Had excema all my life. Last 7 years on my hands, started to take the Omega 3-6-9 and Apple Cider Vinegar Pills. Gone within the week. Wish I'd known sooner! It works amazingly! - Alicia, Surrey

>> Question:  I was looking at the eczema tips from our readers and am eager to try the Omega 3-6-9 vitamins and the Apple Cider Vinegar pills. So my question is how to I go about taking the pills? How many a day, etc? And for how long?

>> Answer: There is no "cure" for eczema, so you would need to take them until the eczema is well under control, then again anytime you have a flare-up.
Nature Made Organic Flaxseed Oil 1000 mg - Omega-3, Omega-6, Omega-9 -225 Softgels DOSAGE and DIRECTIONS:  Take two to three softgels daily with a meal or as recommended by your health care provider.
Apple Cider Vinegar 250mg - Vegetarian - 250 - Tablet
From Nature's Life - Use: One (1) tablet up to two (2) times daily with food.

Eczema / Excema Tip:   Ointments
I have found that "all" creams and soaps and moisturisers aggravate my eczema, whether or not they contain natural or artificial ingredients .
However "ointments" seem to work effectively - whether containing steroids or even plain vaseline. I discussed this with my Doctor who specialises in excema and he told me many patients had told him the same. Its harder to get ointments than creams but is worth insisting on them if this works for you. - Mark, Derby UK

Eczema / Excema Tip: Natural Oils
I've noticed a lot of tips noting the benefits of natural oils which I agree with. More importantly watch the synthetic oils-don't use products containing Mineral Oil, Petroleum or Paraffin. Worth a try! - Mary, Albany
Editor Note: Petroleum AKA Petrolatum

Eczema / Excema: Treatment Tip - Allergies & Chemicals
I have had it too and honestly it's an allergic reaction to something in your environment, so I would not use anything over the counter as they all have preservatives and chemicals that are used to preserve shelf life, which is HORRIBLE on skin already reacting to something else, so I would first start using things without chemicals to clean my home environment (use baking soda to scrub your tub not chemical spray, natural laundry detergent, dish soaps etc.) THEN go online and buy pure emu oil and pure shea butter (make sure there is ABSOLUTELY NOTHING ELSE MIXED IN) and heat them in a bowl in your microwave til soft enough to stir together.If you have a healthfood store get some juniper berry essential oil (you will only need a few drops) and add it to your mixture.I do add a couple of other things. I have a home business (www.soapcountryinc.com) that makes excema cream and my customers swear by it and this is basically my recipe! It is a great under-makeup cream, or good to put on cuts as well ! - Jodie, Littleton CO

Eczema / Excema: Treatment Tip:  Tea Remedy
I have had Eczema since I was a baby. It flares up particularly in summer around all my sweat joints, inner elbows, back of knees, ears, neck etc. I have used everything to no avail. The best remedy I have found, when all else fails to relieve the pain and irritation, is Rooibos (redbush) tea. Soak a tea bag in boiling water for a minute or 2, squeeze gently, and apply to skin while still hot. It soothes like nothing else! Do this 3-4 times a day, and after 3 days it should subside substantially! It also reduces the rash considerably. Try it... Lynn, Johannesburg (See also: Tazo African Red Bush Tea)

Eczema / Excema: Treatment Tip:  Tea Remedy
Use warm chamoline tea on cottonwool to apply to affected areas--far more soothing and moisturising than water. Wear cotton gloves at night so that you don't scratch--keep nails short. - Silvia, Johannesburg

Eczema / Excema: Treatment Tips: Various Treatments
Dear friends,
When I got eczema I was astonished at what I got. Then I came to know it is a disease about which people say it is not curable. I became sad but I knew it is controllable. Will power can control any disease. I understand the pain of eczema. I would like to advise you all "firstly never scratch, rub, or touch the affected area. It is very difficult but you have to make sure you will not touch your skin. I believe it is a disease which results in a blister after scratching. So start like this: "I must not touch my skin, no way, never in any case." Then when you feel itching, immediately apply cortisone cream with zinc sulphate. When you get blisters wash them with salicylic acid, but only once a day. Plus use cortisone cream with zinc sulphate. Clobetasol helps (editor note: clobetasone is a high-potency steroid), but don't use salicylic acid around the genitals, please. Also whenever you get itchy, wash the affected area with cold water, be it tap or any cold water. It would be good if you added ice--it will soothe your skin. After washing pat dry your skin and apply cortisone cream with zinc sulphate. Other methods to prevent skin from drying is use of olive oil, petroleum jelly, and non-perfumed cream. And one important thing... pray to God five times a day and ask The Almighty to help you to get rid of it. By the grace of God you will soon get rid of it. Wish you all the best. - Asheeran, Srinagar

Eczema / Excema: Treatment Tip:  Aloe Vera
What I Found is Working So Far: I recently broke out in a rash last September and no Dr or dermatologist could really put a finger on one thing. Basically summed it up to be dermatitis or exzema (eczema). Well, I used all the cremes, gels, steroids, you name it, and none worked... I remembered back when I was around 20 years old I got what seemed to be a bad rash around my chest where a V-Neck part of a polo shirt would touch. It itched terribly and I was all full of dry patches and scabs, it drove me crazy. Finally I heard that Aloe Vera works alot on irritated skin, and I had an Aloe Vera plant. I clipped off tips and started to put that on my skin. Wham--it disappeared and never returned. Now, since I remembered this, and I broke out on my shins and my ab area, I bought a gel in the summer tanning lotion area that says 100% Aloe Vera Gel. I've been using this liberally on my shin and on my abs and it stops the itching immediately, and my shin has been clearing up, and it hasn't for about 8 months. It flares because I work out and of course when you get hot, it irritates the skin. Aloe Vera is my Savior. It stings a little because I think it's drying it up, cause the spot on my shin is much smaller. - Nevza, SC

Eczema / Excema: Treatment Tip: - using Foot Cream
I have started to use Dr Scholls Overnight Foot Cream on my patches... and it is working. It softens and seems to really heal the soreness. I use it round the clock... applying 2 or 3 times a day.. it is great!

Eczema / Excema: Treatment Tip: - Moisturizers
I had lived in South East Asia for quite a few years and never realized that I suffered from eczema until I returned home in NYC. Within months I developed terrible symptoms of eczema. I would moisturize all the time but it still didn't do the trick. Then I came across Aveeno's Oil Body Wash and their Oatmeal moisturizer. I have since recommended it to a few friends and family and they were amazed how much it helped their dry skin. The products are not cheap but worth the expense. - Kirsten, CT

Eczema / Excema: Treatment Tip: - Monavie Juice
I've taken this product Monavie for several months (2.5 to be exact and my skin has cleared up amazingly. A friend of mine told me about this juice that looks like wine. It's not the most inexpensive stuff but I think it's worth it. Thought I would ad my two cents because it works for me. I'm now distributing it too - www.acailift.com. If you want to ask me any questions shoot me an email please. Thanks for reading. Matt Luke.

Eczema / Excema Tip: Simplest Remedies are Best
As an acupuncturist with a baby born with eczema, I would concur with the many tips that recommend avoiding possible irritants. I would add, that if possible, it is best to use the simplest remedy you can find.
I know eczema is very difficult to deal with and everyone wants it to simply go away. But, it is important to remember that EVERYTHING we put on our skin is absorbed by our body. If you read the ingredient list on many body care products and remedies you will find numerous unpronouncable chemicals. People with eczema are often reactive to some of these harsh chemicals, like sodium laurel sulfate in detergents and soaps for example.
If at all possible, I'd recommend using something as close to nature as possible. I did not want to put anything with harsh chemicals on my daughter so I created a simple herbal remedy which has helped numerous people get off topical steroids, and it is all natural, no colors, no fragrances, no chemicals.
You can find out more at www.emilyskinsoothers.com. In many cases we can help beautify and soothe your skin, without putting chemicals on and into your body.  Emily Skin Soothers, Inc. ~ Ipswich, MA 02446
© 2007, Mike Arsenault, Lic. Ac., Founder Emily Skin Soothers, Inc. - All rights reserved

Eczema / Excema Tip: Natural Remedies
My daughter had excema since she was about two months old. She is now nine months. We've tried alot of remedies. Few things I will say is stay away from drugs. Anything prescribed is probobly not good for you especially Elidil. The same day i picked up the Elidil perscription from the local drugstore, there was a thing on the news how a few long time users have developed a form of cancer that could be linked to prolonged use of the drug... needless to say I threw it out and no longer give any form of drug to my daughter.. I am looking into natural remedies such as sea water and propolis extract etc. Also from what I hear coconut oil and emu oil help. Also I heard that prolonged use of hydrocortizone may have a bad effect on your kidneys and liver, and may promote certain forms of cancer. And same goes for all the other over the counter drugs. Even I suffer just by looking at my little angel crying herself to sleep. She has it on 75% of her body. That I only wish the best for everyone w... (with eczema? = over limit) - Tim, MA

Eczema / Excema Tip: Avoid Bananas
Avoid bananas, they are soaked in pesticides, and take a teaspoon wild mountain honey like Greek honey every day. also e45 cream (sold in the UK) on the skin every day of course. - Maggi

Eczema / Excema Tip: Green Drink & Food Avoidance
I have had excema all my life. As a child on my fingers and then my arms and at times the back of my knees. At age 40 my body went nuts and I was covered in excema all of a sudden. I am now 45 and have only about 2% flare ups under my nose occasionally. I know that it's partially stress related, but after being tested numerous amounts of times and many doctor appointments...I threw out my cortizone cream and was determined to heal myself from the inside out. I started to drink a combination greens drink of spirulina, barlea-grass and mixed greens (mixed with water) first thing every morning, and within a few months my all over body excema was 99.9% gone. I ate well and exercised as well. I stayed away from fried foods, too much sugar (hidden sugars in foods as well) wheat and alcohol. I also ate less tomatoes...which for me seemed to aggravate it a bit. I am convinced that all above (combined) worked, but if I had to pick one first, it would be the greens drink on an empty stomach. - Viv, VI

Eczema / Excema Tip: Primrose Oil
I am 29 years old and have had excema on my face and a few places on my body since i was 18 years old.   It's possible that exam stress initially caused it to flare up.  I used steroids for a few years regularly on my face before a friend pointed out the dangers (thinning of the skin etc), i immediately stopped, and started Elidel cream, which is non steroid and did help, but does have chemicals in it and never really removed the problem, just helped control it.  I went to a health shop recently and on recommendation of an employee purchased SOOTHING EVENING PRIMROSE AND MANUKA HONEY GEL (Living Nature - New Zealand).  This stuff is completely natural, and really worked!!  My excema cleared up in a few days!   I've also started taking Evening Primrose Oil - 1300 mg vitamins.  I'm still prone to break outs, but have found that cutting out steaming hot showers, and alcohol have really helped also.  Finally I don't feel as self conscious about my skin and thoroughly recommend the above completely natural products. - Tina, Belfast NI

Eczema / Excema Tip: Baths, Ointments, and Creams
Try to avoid showering, especially in hot water. It just makes your skin dryer. Instead, take luke warm oatmeal baths. You can buy Oatmeal baths, or you can just add oatmeal to the water, it helps with the itching. Then afterward cover yourself in a heavy cream that will keep in the moisture. Aquaphor is the best-- it is really greasy, but it works miracles. A way to try and avoid the greasiness, try mixing Aquaphor with Eucerin. Make sure you never buy any lotions, but only creams because lotions also dry out skin. Make sure a bottle says "cream." And, you have to be consistent with using an ointment. If you do not use it every day, then it is not going to work. You don't have to take the baths every day, but you have to put on some type of ointment. - Ree, OR

Eczema / Excema Tip: Dead Sea Salts
Try using Dead Sea Salts in your bath. They can be bought, or ordered at branches of Boots and Health shops. There is also a soap from Aleppo which helps, but Dead Sea Salts work really well for my grandson, aged 5. - Jacqui, France

Eczema / Excema Tip: Dermovate & Chemical Avoidance
I've had excema my whole life and the only thing that has helped in clearing it up is an oinment called Dermovate containing clobetasol 17 proportionate (editor note: this is cortisone). I've been using this for years and it is the only thing that clears up my breakouts immediately. I've also refrained from using soaps and detergents containing fragrances as they dry out and crack my skin. - Jess, NJ

Eczema / Excema Tip: Moisturizing
I suffered with eczema as a child then it went away until I went to Uni and it returned to haunt me! I am now 5 years down the line and am still suffering after trying so many different products and ideas.  I was put on drug called azathiropine about a year ago which has really helped control it. My skin looks 'normal' most of the time now; I take 2 - 50mg tablets a day. I do find that excessive alcohol, dairy products and stress make it flare up and I then have to control it using Eumovate (editor note: contains clobetasone butyrate. This is a steroid). My key tip is moisturizing. I am now using a Neutrogena moisturizer for very dry skin; one that can be bought in any good chemist (pharmacy). It keeps my skin soft for about 8 hours. I think it is a battle that I will always be fighting, but I will always give new remedies a try!  - Grace, UK

Eczema / Excema Tip: Various Remedies
I have ezcema (eczema) and my son had it when he was young. We both use propolis cream (a bee product) from the health food store. Some of them contain tea tree oil, some don't, but I find that it really takes out the inflammation and redness. I also use a linden calendula cream mixed with the propolis cream at night just for the extra moisture. If it gets super itchy at night, which is when I seem to really notice the itch, I use Aveeno anti itch cream from the drug store (editor note: contains 1% hydrocortisone--mild). The linden calendula cream I use is made from Eminence skincare, an all natural skincare line that is handmade in Hungary. The products are amazing and treat everything.
- Kara, Calgary

Eczema / Excema Tip: Importance of Oils
For anyone who is having exzema (eczema) problems. I've had it since age 4, now 32. My exzema (eczema) will act up so bad that I will get patches and batch itch. I can no longer eat fish (allergic reaction since '97) so GNC stated I am missing the natural oils that my body is not producing. I've tried the cortisone for the itching which helps. What is really needed is Evening Primrose Oil - 1300 mg and Borage Oil. These are supplements that put the oils back into your body. Very inexpensive. Since then my skin is now showing its natural glow and the patches and dark areas have lightened to my natural skin tones. I recommend this to any one who is suffering and for all ages.
- Malissa, CA

Eczema / Excema Tip: Various Do's & Dont's
I am 29 and have suffered from moderate eczema for the last five years. I was born with it but it was not so bad during childhood and teenage years. I find stress to be the biggest factor - when I am on holiday my skin seems to clear up. Also when I shower too hot or long I always get a flare up. It's hard to break the habit of showering hot. I tried showering cold for a couple of weeks and there was improvement but then I went back to showering warm-hot which dries out the skin. Moisturizing a lot is very important. Also my skin is better in summer than winter because the air is not dry in summer and there is humidity. I no longer drink alcohol or eat seafood but I still can't live without tea or coffee which I am trying to cut back on. I also avoid sugar and chocolates as best I can. A naturopath recommended I take primrose and flaxseed oil, plenty of vitamn C and water and probiotics. In terms of medication I use cortisone creams a lot and even took prednisolone a few times, which I know is very bad. I think cortisone dries out the skin even more and the relief is only short term and when the eczema returns it's worse than before. I have tried UV light treatment which seems to clear the eczema up but also tanning causes dryness. Tacrolimus ointment* (Protopic Ointment) is very good. For scalp eczema use oatmeal shampoo or Nizoral Anti-Dandruff shampoo (editor note: contains an anti-fungual ingredient).
- Adeline, WA.

*Editor note on Tacrolimus Ointment / Protopic Ointment: This is a topical immunosuppressant. The long-term safety of Tacrolimus Ointment has not been determined. Because rare cases of cancer (eg, lymphoma, skin cancer) have been reported, continuous long-term use should be avoided and the application of Tacrolimus Ointment should be limited to the affected areas. Tacrolimus Ointment should not be used in children younger than 2 years of age.

Eczema / Excema Tip: Products
I am an Esthetician and Cosmetic Manufacturer in Anchorage Alaska. Due to our extreme cold, dry climate we unfortunately have quite a few people who suffer with exzema. The best treatment I have found for my clients who are suffering from eczema is to use my "Forget Me Not Daily Exfoliator" followed by my "Ididacreme." All of our products are made especially for dry skin and enhanced with natural Alaskan botanicals that have worked wonders on customers world wide. - Janet Shafsky, First and Lasting Impressions, Inc.  www.impressionsbyjanet.com

Eczema / Excema Tip:  Emu Oil
My daughter's eczema first appeared on her feet as little red rashes when she was 1, we got topical cream from the doctor who also said most cases went away by the time the child turned 2. By the time she was 4, we had tried the highest level of cream available, Elidel, Singular, she went to doctors for skin allergy tests, I spent 100's of dollars on "natural" cures that were sworn to work, I bought Skin-zinc over the phone, I tried Baby Arbonne, tried Vaseline at night and would wrap her legs up with gauze, it was terrible. She had this so bad, she would have bleeding scabs all up her legs, when we were in public, people thought she had a contagious disease on her legs. She would hide from me to scratch! Then I tried EMU-OIL! We used emu-oil 4 times after the bath, and her legs are so soft!!!! Please if you have a child who suffers, and scratches, please try this for them. I found it at the mall in Tulsa. - Chrisi, OK

Eczema / Excema Tip: Zinc
I just developed eczema last spring due to stress and allergies all around my eyes. It would get so cracked, swollen and sore that I would develop fevers and have to miss school. The eczema actually went away for several months until I came to university and used makeup in conjunction with stressful exams that made me flare up again. I don't have Vaseline here (my usual remedy) but I remembered that someone once told me zinc works really well. I whipped out my Ozenol (it's like polysporin but smells very strong and contains zinc) [editor note: Polysporin does also contain zinc: Bacitracin Zinc (500 units), Polymyxin B Sulfate (10,000 units)]
and in a matter of one day the swelling, pain and discomfort are almost all gone plus it doesn't sting or burn when you put it on (something I've had to endure with other products and the prescribed Elidel cream). I did research on Zinc and found out that it's ridiculously good for your skin. Nothing beats a good visit to the dr. and some Vaseline but if you're desperate like I was, I recommend this stuff or anything with Zinc Oxide*. I hope this helps someone. - Giselle, London

*Note from editor: A certain form of zinc (pyrithione zinc) is the basis for several eczema creams. This form of zinc is more effective in the treatment of eczema. Pyrithione zinc is also found in Head & Shoulders shampoo.
Read this Tip on how to use Head & Shoulders shampoo as a skin treatment.

Eczema / Excema Tip: Energy Medicine
I have been getting what looks like exzema (eczema) on my ring (left) finger for a few months now, and have been researching it quite a bit. I have come to believe that western medicine offers little to no help at all with this problem, but that Eastern (traditional Chinese) medicine may help. It seems that this is a common symptom of an imbalance in the "triple heater" meridian. I strongly urge anyone with an out-of-the-blue case of exzema (eczema) on their ring finger to go to an accupunturist. Just using accupressure, mine is now almost completely gone. In any case: THINK HOLISTIC! - Rebecca, NY

Eczema / Excema Tip: Leaky Gut Syndrome
This article was sent to us by Marie, CA. We are well aware of this website, and of this article in particular. It attributes the cause of eczema to "Leaky Gut Syndrome." This is an "opinion," and since it is not our article, and we can not reprint it here, we thought we would post the link, and let you decide for yourself.
Leaky Gut Syndrome article from eczema-usa.com

Eczema / Excema Tip: Baths Moisturizers Plastic Wrap
Instead of using salt put a handful of raw oats into a stocking and use as a sustitute. It works better in a bath as the oats soak in the water and make a wash. Also I used diprozone (editor note: Diprosone: betamethasone dipropionate, a topical corticosteroid) but found that because my xma (excema) was so bad that the cream would not even reach the problem. Try wrapping your sons limbs in glad wrap after putting on the cream, if you let him sleep in it it will sweat the cream to the origin of the xma (excema). I know its uncomfortable but it really works. Also another thing that is soothing and good for the xma (excema) is watered down Sorbolene Cream. Mix it like a solution and pat it onto the aggravated areas. Also don't let him scratch the areas as this aggravates and spreads the xma (excema), try to get him used to slapping or patting it to minimize itchiness. - Renee, San Diego

Eczema / Excema Tip: Albolene Moisturizer
As a mom of a child with SEVERE eczema I searched the Internet many hours for a "cure". I took my son to all kinds of doctors who would only prescribe steroids. My son recently broke out very badly and scratched so hard that his feet and hands turned into a bloody, scabby mess. I read in the Dallas Morning News that Noxzema is supposed to help, but him being only 2 1/2, I didn't think he could handle the burning. Instead, on the same shelf at the grocery store, I found a facial wash called ALBOLENE*. It does not contain any chemicals and is unscented so it does not burn his skin. I use it as a cream 2X a day and I can honestly say it is the only thing I have found that helps. It's made his scaly, rough and red skin soft and silky. The bonus... after I put this face wash on him I rub the rest into my hands and they look and feel better then ever. I hope this helps someone else out there. ~ Lucie, TX

*Editor note: Albolene has been around for a long, long time. It has been recommended by makeup artists and used by film stars since the "beginning of time" for repeated removal of heavy makeup, without irritating the skin. Be sure to get the UNSCENTED.

Eczema / Excema Tip: List of Tips
Here are some tips that have helped me control excema. As well as using Cortisone creams and Elidil, to avoid contributing to flare ups I:

• use pure cotton sheets and wear as much cotton and natural fibre as possible
• avoid wearing wooly fabrics
• avoid skin products with lanolin and mineral oil - they cause flare ups and allergic reactions
• use only creams that are as simple and natural as possible such as Vaseline Problem Skin (Vaseline & vitamin E), pure olive oil
• avoid absolutely all fragrances or perfumed products of any kind -- includes air fresheners, sprays, scented candles, bubble bath
• some studies suggest that the amount of perfume, fragrance and scent in our society is a great contributor to environmental illnesses of all kinds
• wash clothes and bedding in detergent that is as simple, fragrance-free and natural as possible -- no liquid detergents or phosphates -- Sunlight powder is good as is Arm & Hammer baking soda based detergent
• avoid fabric softeners -- they are scented and can trigger breakouts
• avoid any kind of skin powder, especially anything containing talc -- this is believed by some people to cause more excema and allergies in babies. Plain corn starch powder is very soothing as an alternative

When none of the above helped, my doctor recommended washing my hair and skin in Nizoral dandruff shampoo several times a week even tho I don't have dandruff. He said my skin was being further irritated by the same thing that causes dandruff. Once I got that under control, the cortisone and Elidil were much more effective. (Editor: See Head & Shoulders Shampoo)

• If the Nizoral doesn't work, ask your doctor for a prescription of Capex shampoo which does much the same thing but is much more powerful
• I found Caladryl anti-histamine lotion to be very helpful in controlling itch. It is a mixture of calamine lotion and anti-histamine
• Although we are told to avoid the sun, I find the sun very helpful to excema (Editor note: usually you have to avoid the sun because of the medications used for eczema such as cortisone based medications, and Elidel).
• In winter I often go to the tanning salon and find that it can be helpful if done slowly and gradually.

~ Hope this helps - LL

Eczema / Excema Tip: Vitamins Stress Tabs & Milk Thistle
This is more of a suggestion than an answer, because as you know there is no "answer" to excema.  Both stress, and allergies can cause flare ups in excema, and since you are unsure which on is the cause, and it can be both, can I suggest that you go on a stress vitamin, and see if that helps.  I tried a B Complex with C, Zinc, Vitamin E and Copper (StressTabs from drug store) and it cleared my (stress related) excema up in 3 days.  If that doesn't work, and you think it's more of an allergy problem, try going on a cleanse for two weeks.  This would require you to omit from your diet all white and wheat flours, dairy, and significantly decrease the amount of sugars that you consume (it's only for two weeks!!!) to allow your liver to clear out and start to process sugars and dairy better.  If your liver is toxic (overwhelmed) with overprocessed foods, dairy and simple carbohydrates, it will be too stressed out to handle mild allergies. Therefore showing up through your skin.  I hope this helps!! - Calgary
Editor's Note: Milk Thistle is fantastic for the liver. Active ingredient is silymarin. Do a web search & read up on it.

Eczema / Excema Tip: Apple Cider Vinegar
I just recently dealt with a severe eczema breakout. I had the red cracked skin, and oozing sores where i scratched. What helped get it under control? Apple cider vinegar! A friend of mine that suffered with full body eczema told me to try this. Dilute it with water and soak for a few minutes (it will sting at first but dies down as eczema clears up). It dried up the sores and smoothed out my skin, as long as I followed up with a moisturizer. I'm not into long term use of steroid creams for fear they will thin out my skin. Hope this helps!!! - New York

Eczema / Excema Tip: Intestinal Flora
Excema, and most skin conditions, are caused by allergies. Asthma, arthritis are also allergies. If you have sluggish digestion, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, diarhea, irritability, fatigue, contact your physican* and ask about "Leaky Gut Syndrome". Briefly, when the body doesn't digest foods properly and efficiently (due to insufficent acids in the stomach for example), or if the body has been exposed to a lot of antibiotics (which have killed not only the bad bacteria, but also the good!), or oral contraceptives, as well as other causes, parasite and bacteria overgrow, and literally attach their legs into the lining of your intestine. This causes 'holes' in which underdigested foods fall through, and go directly into the blood stream. The blood then considers these particles as being an allergy, and voila, a skin reaction, or other form of reaction. It's easy to rectify. Rebalance all the 'flora' in your intestines*, and you'll find relief. It's the plague of the 21st century....get to your doctor or naturopath doctor, or research online..there's lots of information. Get yourself some relief..It's an awful condition, and it can easily be managed. - Wendy, Toronto

*Rebalance the flora in your intestines:
Renew Life - Ultimate Flora 50 Billion:
Contains: 336mg, Bifidobacterium Bifidum: 25Billion, Lactobacillus Acidophilus: 10Billion, Lactobacillus Rhamnosus: 4.5Bill, BIFIDOBACTERIUM BREVE: 2.5Bill, Bifidobacterium Longum: 2.5Bill, LACTOBACILLUS CASEI: 2.5Bill, Lactobacillus Plantarum: 1.5Bill, LACTOCOCCUS LACTIS: 1Bill, Lactobacillus Bulgaricus: 250million, Lactobacillus Salivarius: 250mill, FOS: 189mg
***If the above link goes dead, go to All 50 billion probiotics***

Eczema / Excema Tip: Allergies Candida Probiotics
Creams, steroids, cortisone shots etc.all work great and help excema in the meantime. But these remedies only help solve temporarily and do not get to the "root" of why it is all happening. I found a great Holistic Doctor in Laguna Beach, California who has helped me to control my excema. She noticed a few things I was allergic to. But the main thing is that she put me on a Candida Diet. She told me that excema can be caused by Candida "yeast" bacteria living inside. So I went on the diet and my excema cleared up for a good year. Now it is back and so I am back on the diet. However, the diet has saved my life in the past. It is not easy and you must follow it very strictly---No sugar, yeast, fermented food, dairy (because it might be something you are allergic to), no hydrogenated oils or anything too acidic. You might want to cut out on some possible allergic foods like wheat until and introduce them back in slowly. Stay away from Alcohol!! Major killer and makes excema much much worse. In addition, you'll have to purchase supplements (probiotics) which kill the candida bacteria, which you can get at health food stores or go to a holistic doctor to get them. At the same time you are taking in good food, you'll want to be killing and getting rid of the bad bacteria. Therefore, you should be taking lots of fiber to release the crap!! No pun intended. Take flax or vitamin E, adrenal supplements and a good multivitamin. I promise you this diet is great, and hey it can't hurt to try it. If anything, you will lose major weight and feel great. But I promise you it will make a difference on your skin. I would stick to it for at least 3 weeks depending on how bad you have it. Longer if it's really bad, and if you can try to make it a lifestyle as far as the eating goes. Sugar is the worst for excema!! Intense exercise helps though. Sweat it out! If you are someone who gets chronic yeast infections this will be great for you also. It is a pain, but worth it!!
- Kristen

Eczema / Excema Tip: Eczema Regimen
I am 26 and have suffered from severe recurring eczema in almost every part of my body. It's taken me almost 5 years of hospital visits, allergists, and naturopaths (the only one to really give me insight to underlying issues/causes), and i still suffer occasionally. Some info that REALLY helped me: cut out ALL sugar and sugar transforming foods (white carbs), fermented foods, and alcohol,  do a candida cleanse (Yeast Buster's Kit is a great one), introduce a probiotic / digestive enzyme / omega fats (omega 3 fatty acids) / fibre / lots of water on a daily basis. Cortisone creams worked short term for me but did not treat the causes-also not good to take continuously. Same goes for vaseline-lubricating, but not broken down by the body. Try PURE shea butter, it can be used anywhere on the body and scalp to keep moisture in, also emu oil has really good healing and moisturizing properties. Sleep on all-cotton sheets, and keep your nails short!  This is so hard to deal with, physically and emotionally, get lots of sleep and take a good B-vitamin (or StressTabs for stress (when i have a flare up, it stresses out my system). Hopefully this helps you like it has for me-good luck!  - Nicole

Eczema / Excema Tip: Head & Shoulders Shampoo Remedy
I had two forms of eczema for years; 1) cracks in the tips of my fingers and thumbs in the winters and 2) occasional severe itching on the bottoms of my feet. I found relief by applying Head & Shoulders dandruff shampoo to the affected areas. The active ingredient is 1% pyrithione zinc (same as in several expensive OTC eczema treatments). Suggested use; apply 2x per day for several minutes and wash off. Continue for up to 4 weeks, or for one week after symptoms subside, whichever is less (can reduce uses to 1x per day after symptoms subside, if disired). My symptoms were gone in just two days. Afterwards, repeat only if/when symptoms return. I found this tip in a chat room, forget where. From other web readings I think 1) This may be effective in up to 80%+ cases and 2) side effects are negligable. Not sure why this works but pyrithione zinc has anti-fungus and anti-mold properties, which is how it stops dandruff. Hope this helps. - Vernon
NOTE: Stick with Classic Clean, no conditioner, no fragrance. - GB Editor

Eczema / Excema Tip: Treatment for excema: You can get rid of excema by drinking goats milk, having salt baths (sea salt you can buy at stores) or bathing and drinking a tea called red bush tea (Tazo African Red Bush Tea). It comes from Africa and all of these treatments really help me. I also have excema and it is almost all cleared up. I do NOT recomend antibiotics. All of the things above are natural and dont have any side affects as antibiotics and over the counter creams do. - ExcemaAnswersQueen

Eczema / Excema Tip: Scalp eczema sufferers can get fast relief by applying "Hand Sanitizer" to affected areas. Most are alcohol based with Aloe and vitamin E. It seems to cool the inflammation and stop infection.  - Gerry, St.Catharines
Editor Note: Careful of fragrances in these products. Also try Scalpicin if you don't have open sores.

Eczema / Excema Tip: I have suffered with excema for about 4 years now, mostly on my face, hands and arms.  I tried 3 different doctors and a million different creams and lotions and nothing worked.  I finally was told to try a combo that amazingly worked for me. 
1. I cut out dairy from my diet
2. Freederm lotion! (is a cream) (actually helps and not that pricey)
3. Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg - 3 a day
4. Vitamin B stress complex with zinc and Vitamin C
With these four things in place the excema on my face FINALLY disappeared.  I still do occationally get a small flare up here and there but nothing like what it was before.   I would also like to say, that everyone allergies are different so you may not need to cut out the dairy.  Be sure to follow the instructions on the pills and the lotion, don't overdo it!  (you can find them at any drug store or even, target, wal-mart etc.) Just be patient let your body adjust to the changes. I really hope this helps, it was a lifesaver for me!  - Kim, MO

Eczema / Excema Tip: If you want to get rid of your eczema just in one day try using coconut oil. Use three drops in a luke-warm bath then when you're finished put lots of cream on to keep your skin nice and soft. Good-luck :]:[   Capryce ~ Wellington, NZ
Editor Note: Get rid of eczema in one day? May not be eczema. Possibly just a dermatitis.