Varicose eczema is a type of eczema that affects the skin of the lower legs.It’s also commonly referred to as venous, gravitational or stasis eczema. This type of eczema usually presents as swollen and itchy discoloured skin. While it tends to be a long term problem, there are many ways the symptoms can be managed.
In this blog post, you’ll find everything you need to know to get started with treating your varicose eczema, including:
- What is varicose eczema and its symptoms?
- How to prevent varicose eczema
- Varicose eczema treatment and natural remedies
Read on to find out how you can manage your varicose eczema naturally.
What is Varicose Eczema?
Varicose eczema is a common type of eczema for people with varicose veins. It is most common in seniors, affecting about 70% of people over the age of 70. It usually affects just the lower legs, which become swollen from poor circulation. Eczema then forms on the skin where varicose veins are present.
Like with all types of eczema, the skin becomes:
- Itchy and swollen
- Dry and flaky
- Scaly or crusty
Many people may also experience:
- Skin tenderness and tightness
- Discolouration of the skin
- Small, white scars
Who Gets Varicose Eczema?
Varicose eczema is caused by poor circulation which can lead to a build up of pressure as the blood attempts to flow upward through the body and heart. This pressure causes the fluid to leak out of the vein and into the skin. The skin can then become dry, itchy, and swollen.
You are most likely to develop this type of eczema if you have high blood pressure, a blood clot in the leg vein, or a past infection in the skin. Other contributing factors include:
- Being overweight
- Immobility/lack of exercise
- Swelling caused by prolonged standing or hot weather.
- Having been pregnant
Why is it Important to Treat Varicose Eczema?
Not only is varicose eczema uncomfortable, but it can quickly lead to a much bigger problem: varicose ulcers. Skin affected by varicose eczema is thin and unhealthy and can easily break down. If left untreated, a small hole can appear and become deeper and wider over time. This can lead to a buildup of bacteria, making your eczema even worse and leading to serious infection.
Natural Varicose Eczema Treatments
Luckily, we have some safe and effective recommendations to soothe your varicose eczema symptoms and prevent any further complications.
Soothe and Moisturize Your Skin
Our Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream is a creamy,non-burning, non-greasy balm that uses only 6 wholesome ingredients, including manuka honey. Because of its powerful antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties, we highly recommend manuka honey for varicose eczema.
Wash Your Skin with Soothing Soaps
Many body washes, soaps and lotions you find on the shelf contain ingredients that are drying out and further irritating your skin. Our Coconut and Sunflower Oil Soap Bar provides cleansing without causing further irritation or dryness. Sunflower oil boosts the skin's barrier function, helping it to retain moisture. Plus, it has anti-inflammatory properties.
Wear Eczema Friendly Clothing
Made with TENCEL and embedded with anti-inflammatory zinc, RemedyWear breathable pants for both adults and kids, not only protect the skin from scratching but also boost the healing process. They have a sleek, form-fitting design, so you can wear them underneath regular clothes without any added bulk.
You can also wear these100% Organic Cotton Adult Pajamas Pant for Eczema if you're struggling to sleep at night. Featuring soft flat seams inside and out, they're made with your comfort in mind.
Keep Your Legs Moving!
For those with varicose eczema, it is particularly important to get your blood pumping by exercising daily. Some great exercises for varicose eczema include walking and swimming. You also want to avoid standing for long periods of time. If your job requires this of you, try to bend down at the knee every so often or flex your feet when you can. You can also try elevating your legs at the end of the day to help with blood flow.
Get Started with Treating Your Varicose Eczema
If you’re struggling with varicose eczema, use these helpful tips to start treating your skin safely today.
