Colloidal oatmeal is made from finely ground oats. It helps calm and soften inflamed skin. Colloidal oatmeal is available in cream or powder form.
Here’s how to use it:
- Add the powder to lukewarm bathwater and soak for 10 to 15 minutes to help soften rough skin and relieve itching.
- After your bath, pat your skin dry and apply a thick layer of hypoallergenic moisturizer that has a high oil content.
Evening primrose oil
Evening primrose oil comes from the evening primrose plant. It’s used topically to soothe irritated skin.
When taken by mouth, it’s used to treat systemic inflammatory conditions such as eczema. Evening primrose oil contains omega-6 fatty acids and gamma-linolenic acid, which may play a role in preventing inflammation in the body.
An older study shows results on evening primrose oil for eczema are mixed. Even so, many people claim it helps reduce their eczema symptoms without negative side effects.