Eczema is an auto-immune disease characterized by inflammation of the skin. Affecting 10-20 percent of the population, its prime symptoms include redness, swelling, patches of dry skin, and extreme itchiness.
Although many sufferers search for relief through natural products, dietary and lifestyle changes, as well as creams, research suggests that zinc oxide can also help soothe eczema symptoms. Discover if zinc for eczema is right for you and your skin in our latest blog post.
Please keep in mind that although these what we discuss in this post can relieve eczema, we are in no way medical professionals. If you’re experiencing severe eczema symptoms like an infection, it is best to seek medical advice immediately.
What is Zinc Oxide?
Zinc oxide (ZnO) is a derivative of zinc (Zn), an essential nutrient that supports various bodily functions, such as your immune system and metabolism. A safe and natural ingredient, it has been known to stop the spread of viruses, including the common cold.
In fact, it’s so safe that even babies can benefit from this important element (as seen in zinc being one of the most active ingredients for treating diaper rash). In addition to providing therapeutic benefits to the body and relief from a variety of illnesses, there are no known allergies or side effects from the topical use of zinc oxide. That being said, be sure to speak with your doctor or physician to help determine if zinc is a good choice for your skin.
Benefits of Zinc for Eczema
Zinc oxide is known to be an effective anti-inflammatory treatment for itchy skin conditions such as poison ivy and diaper rash. These properties also make it a helpful treatment for calming and soothing eczema symptoms such as burning, itching, and uncomfortable rashes.
Here are some of the top benefits of zinc oxide for eczema:
Aids in Moisture Retention
Because of a damaged skin barrier, those with eczema suffer from chronically dry skin. Zinc oxide helps create a helpful layer on top of the skin that greatly aids in helping the skin retain moisture.
Wound Healing
Zinc oxide can be relied upon to support skin healing after burns or injury. In fact, many people use it to reduce the tenderness after sunburns or to soften the feel of their skin.
Inflammation Relief
Research reveals that zinc oxide prevents inflammation by facilitating the growth of new tissues. It’s also used to treat cold sores, skin ulcers, scrapes, and other skin irritations.
Antibacterial
The natural antibacterial properties of zinc oxide make it useful in reducing the risk of contaminants penetrating the skin by helping clean out any broken or cracked skin caused by persistent scratching. This helps prevent infection.
Relieves rashes and itch
Zinc oxide can be used to soothe itchy skin or uncomfortable rashes
Zinc and Eczema Treatments
Used in a cream or as a product (such as eczema-friendly clothing), zinc oxide can help repair wounded or dry skin, making it an excellent way to combat eczema symptoms.
Whether you’re looking to control the eczema itch, stop the spread of infection, or find relief from the irritating burning sensation, check out our top zinc treatments for eczema:
Use of Remedywear™ can significantly improve quality of life in patients who have itchy or sensitive skin, including people with eczema, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis. Dermatologists in a recent study [1] found that a group of patients with atopic dermatitis noted rapid improvement of eczema severity, less redness and itching and improved sleep quality after using TENCEL™ clothing embedded with Smartcel™ Sensitive (zinc).
Discover our other Remedywear™ garments made with TENCEL and anti-inflammatory zinc here.
References:
[1] Wiegand, 2013, Skin-protective effects of a zinc oxide-functionalized textile and its relevance for atopic dermatitis. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol; 6: 115–121.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC36566...
https://www.healthline.com/health/zinc-for-eczema
https://www.hellomotherhood.com/zinc-oxide-to-treat-eczema-6184070.html
https://www.soothems.com/blogs/news/eczema-and-the-benefits-of-zinc-oxide
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Bio: Laura is a contributor and content developer for The Eczema Company. She is in no way a medical professional. Her comments, suggestions, and reflections are not intended to replace any medical advice. Always seek the help of a medical professional before undertaking any diet or lifestyle changes.
