Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that affects approximately 31 million people in the United States alone. The chronic condition is characterized by patches of red rashes, dry skin, swelling, and scaly flakes. Did we mention eczema is also extremely itchy? While there is currently no cure for this autoimmune disease, there are some lifestyle changes as well as natural remedies that can help manage and soothe symptoms. In this blog post, we’ll be talking specifically about the benefits of zinc oxide for eczema. Read on!
Please keep in mind that although 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?
While Zinc (Zn) is a metal, Zinc Oxide (ZnO) is not. Zinc oxide is oxidized zinc and is an inorganic compound that offers many therapeutic benefits to the human body, including supporting the functioning of the metabolism and the immune system and soothing symptoms of diaper rash. That’s right: this ingredient is perfectly safe for babies.
It is very rare to be allergic to zinc oxide and there are no known side effects regarding the topical application of zinc oxide which makes it a great natural treatment alternative for those with sensitive skin.
How Can Zinc Oxide Help Eczema?
As we mentioned, zinc oxide offers many health benefits to the human body but how can it specifically help eczema sufferers? Known to be an effective anti-inflammatory treatment, zinc oxide helps relieve and soothe itchy rashes. It also aids in moisture retention by creating a protective layer on top of the skin. As the dry skin associated with eczema occurs due to a damaged skin barrier that has trouble retaining moisture, this is incredibly beneficial.
In addition, thanks to its antibacterial properties, zinc oxide can help stop the spread of infection. This is extremely useful if persistent scratching causes the skin to crack or bleed, making the wound more vulnerable to bacteria.
Natural Zinc Oxide Eczema Treatments
Our Remedywear™ garments are made with soothing TENCEL and embedded with antibacterial Zinc Oxide. This unique combination of fibers is proven to reduce the severity of atopic dermatitis, reduce itchiness and improve quality of sleep when worn overnight for three consecutive nights.
Our Remedywear™ clothing is embedded with zinc oxide to help bacterial growth, block odor and soothe skin. Because it’s embedded and not encapsulated or applied as a finish, it is 100% safe to use, even on babies and children, and doesn't wash off even after 100 plus washings.
Here are some of our favorite Remedywear™ products for treating eczema, psoriasis, and sensitive skin:
Remedywear 3 Ply Face Mask–a washable mask perfect for those with sensitive facial skin. It’s soft, breathable, and cooling. Thanks to the antibacterial and antimicrobial zinc fibers, it helps fight germs and bacterial growth that can build up on both the inside and outside of the mask. Snug yet comfortable, it can be worn for hours at time without causing chafing or facial irritation.
Remedywear™ Long Sleeve Shirt–available for adults and kids, this protective shirt offers a gentle layer of protection for the arms, chest, stomach, and back. The lightweight fabric makes it easy to layer underneath regular clothing during the day without any added bulk. We also recommend wearing alone as pajamas to boost the healing process.
Remedywear™ MEN'S Boxer Briefs–fitted boxer briefs great for treating scrotal dermatitis, jock itch, and buttocks or groin eczema. The elastic-free waistband and stretchy material keeps the fabric in place all day or night long.
You may also like this Tallow Bar Soap with Zinc. It's the perfect addition to your Paleo skincare routine. Use it to reduce inflammation and calm red rashes. You can even lather it to help soothe seborrheic dermatitis. It's great for even the most sensitive skin.
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4120804/
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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.
