Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that can cause itchiness, dry skin, blisters, scaly patches, rashes, and skin infections. Itchy skin is the most common symptom of the condition, which affects more than 31 million Americans. Within that statistic, people experience different forms of eczema, including contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, nummular eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and dyshidrotic eczema.
Many people with eczema use the word “flare-up” to describe one or more acute symptoms from prolonged itchiness. If flare-ups reach a certain point, antihistamines, corticosteroids, or topical steroid creams are the usual treatment options that healthcare providers recommend. Some people don’t want to resort to these medications and prefer to experiment with natural solutions to manage the condition. While the ingredients in this body butter do not cure the condition, they may calm flare-ups and reduce itchiness on eczema-prone skin. You can learn more about some of the ingredients below.
Coconut Oil
Working to soften dry, brittle skin (a common symptom of eczema), coconut oil helps prevent skin breakups that invite microbes into cracks. As most of you know, coconut oil is a great moisturizer because the skin can easily absorb it. One randomized, double-blind study from 2014 found that virgin coconut oil had a greater effect than mineral oil in 117 patients with mild eczema symptoms. Compared to extra virgin olive oil, virgin coconut oil was able to better moisturize dry skin and remove the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria in 126 eczema patients.
Shea Butter
Another wonderful moisturizing ingredient, shea butter is rich in beneficial fatty acids that rejuvenate the skin. In fact, the fatty acids in shea butter work to accelerate the renewal of skin cells, in addition to supporting circulation. Shea butter contains a few derivatives of cinnamic acid, which exhibits anti-inflammatory properties. The vitamin E in shea butter benefits the skin by promoting softness and providing relief from dryness. One research study found that 74% of patients with eczema reported a significant relief from symptoms after using a cream containing shea butter. Researchers believe that shea butter’s ability to prevent trans-epidermal water loss was a primary reason for this relief.
Calendula Oil
If you have eczema, including calendula oil in your skin care routine is a great idea. It is rich in anti-inflammatory properties that work to reduce both itchiness and swelling in affected areas. Researchers note that calendula oil can help disinfect wounds, minor cuts, and mild skin irritations, primarily due to the inherent antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Calendula oil also works to stimulate the production of collagen, which can assist with the healing process. In fact, one study monitored eczema patients who used topical applications containing calendula. Many participants reported that it soothed irritation, itching, and helped improve the healing process.
Castor Oil
Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid, which works to draw dirt, dead skin cells, and microbes from the skin. It also helps stimulate lymphatic flow and encourage the growth of healthy tissues. By promoting optimal circulation, castor oil works to remove cellular toxins, which in turn reduces inflammation in the body. According to researchers, castor oil is very effective at hydrating and moisturizing the skin. In fact, it may relieve pain and treat infection, making it an ideal ingredient for eczema patients. Lastly, the antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties in castor oil have been thoroughly documented.
Anti-Itch Whipped Body Butter
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons raw, unrefined shea butter
- 5 tablespoons virgin, unrefined coconut oil
- 1/2 tablespoon castor oil
- 1 tablespoon calendula oil
- 1 tsp vitamin E oil
- 15 drops lavender essential oil
- 7 drops tea tree oil (therapeutic grade)
Instructions:
- In the top of a double boiler over medium-low heat, add the shea butter, coconut oil, and castor oil. Stir occasionally until everything is thoroughly melted.
- Remove from heat and pour the melted mixture into a heat-safe glass bowl and allow the mixture to cool at room temperature for an hour. You can place the bowl in the refrigerator and chill it for 20 minutes, or until it starts to solidify.
- Using an electric hand mixer, whip the partially solidified mixture for a few minutes. Add the calendula oil, vitamin E oil, and lavender and tea tree essential oils and whip for another several minutes, or until the mixture is nice and fluffy.
- Spoon the body butter into an airtight glass jar and store in a cool, dark place. It will keep fresh for one to two months, or longer if you store it in the fridge. Just keep it away from direct sunlight.
