Eczema Treatments Over The Counter

close-up of a patients elbow showing plaques of dry skin typically seen with psoriasis

With so many eczema treatments available, it can seem impossible to know which one to try. In truth, many cases of eczema require more than one remedy to soothe the symptoms and prevent outbreaks. Luckily, there are several inexpensive over-the-counter treatments available that you can try before subjecting yourself to pricier alternatives.

Moisturizing lotions

One of the top symptoms of eczema is harsh dry skin. Healthy skin is maintained through the use of creams and lotions that retain natural moisture. Take care when choosing the right lotion for your skin type that you do not purchase an overly oily or scented cream. These can irritate the skin, worsening the problem; however an oil-based soap used in the bath or shower is beneficial to skin health.

Give your skin a healthy boost by ingesting more grape juice, Zinc, B complex and fish oils. These promote healthy skin and natural moisture.

Antihistamines

Since eczema is an allergy-based condition, antihistamines help to ease the symptoms. Eczema outbreaks are often coupled with severe itching and many allergy pills or liquids lessen this effect. Take caution as most antihistamines can make the user sleepy or drowsy, so always follow the guidelines and recommendations as printed on the box.

Natural remedies

Many health stores and holistic shops sell herbal treatments and natural herbal remedies. These are hypo-allergenic and safe for extended use. They may come in the form of topical creams or supplemental vitamins that are orally administered, and do wonders in preventing and controlling current flare-ups

Corticosteroids

Non-prescription cortisone is sold over-the-counter in low dosage tubes, and is very useful in relieving eczema symptoms. In fact, some medicated lotions contain this drug, and are easily substituted for your regular moisturizer when you have a breakout. Do not use this type of medication for more than 10 consecutive days without consulting a doctor, as they can thin the skin and cause cracking and bleeding.

It is not always strictly necessary to resort to expensive, prescription treatments when you suffer from eczema. Many mild to moderate cases are kept in check by simple home remedies and over-the-counter treatments.

Many cases of eczema require multiple remedies to soothe symptoms and prevent outbreaks