Can essential oils help with eczema?

Essential oils are very concentrated plant extracts that may contain potent healing properties. While several treatment options are available for managing eczema, you may have heard of essential oils as potential natural remedies.

While some essential oils may be beneficial in soothing eczema symptoms, some may also further irritate your skin, especially if you use them in high concentrations. If you’re interested in using essential oils for eczema, consider speaking with a healthcare professional first. They may be able to advise you about safe usage.

While research suggests health benefits, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t monitor or regulate the purity or quality of essential oils. It’s important to talk with a healthcare professional before you begin using essential oils and be sure to research the quality of a brand’s products. Always do a patch test before trying a new essential oil.

Essential oils and eczema

Essential oils are very concentrated extracts obtained from various parts of plants, such as leaves, flowers, and roots. They contain the plant’s natural essence and aroma, and people often use them for aromatherapy and other therapeutic purposes. 

These oils are known for their therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal effects. This makes them helpful in managing a wide range of health conditions, including eczema.

When it comes to eczema, essential oils can be helpful in soothing irritated skin and providing relief from itching, though they don’t cure the condition itself.

Some essential oils have antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that can help prevent infections in eczema-prone skin. They can also help improve overall skin health by promoting cell regeneration and providing moisture.

Which oils can be used for eczema?

Some 2022 research has found that several essential oils may be effective in managing the symptoms of eczema, including:

• Lavender oil: This oil has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which may be suitable for soothing irritated skin and reducing inflammation.
• Tea tree oil: This is a potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory oil that can help prevent infections and reduce inflammation in eczema-prone skin.
• Chamomile oil: This has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, making it helpful in reducing discoloration and itching in eczema.
• Frankincense oil: This has regenerative properties that can help improve the skin’s overall health and reduce the appearance of eczema patches.
• Eucalyptus oil: This has pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties that can help with the pain and itching associated with eczema.
• Geranium oil: This has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help prevent infections and reduce inflammation in eczema-prone skin.
• Rose oil: This has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation and irritation in eczema-prone skin. It can also help moisturize and nourish the skin.

Consider talking with a doctor or an experienced aromatherapist before using essential oils for eczema. They can help you determine the best treatment for your individual needs.

How to use essential oils

Here are some tips on how to use essential oils for eczema safely and effectively:

• Dilute the essential oils: Essential oils are highly concentrated, so using them directly on the skin can cause irritation or allergic reactions. That’s why it’s important to dilute them with a carrier oil before applying them to your skin.
• Choose the right carrier oil: Carrier oils help dilute essential oils, making them less potent. They also allow them to absorb into the skin and help prevent skin irritation. Some suitable options for eczema-prone skin include coconut oil, almond oil, jojoba oil, and avocado oil.
• Perform a patch test: Before using a new essential oil, it’s necessary to perform a patch test to check you’re not allergic to it. Apply a small amount of diluted essential oil to the inside of your wrist or elbow and wait 24 hours to see whether any irritation or discoloration develops. 
• Use essential oils in a bath: Adding a few drops to a warm bath can help soothe irritated skin and reduce inflammation. Make sure to dilute the essential oil in a carrier oil or a dispersant like Epsom salt before adding it to the bath.
• Use a diffuser: You can also use essential oils in a diffuser to enjoy their therapeutic benefits through inhalation. This can help promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can trigger eczema flare-ups.
• Apply diluted essential oils topically: You can apply essential oils to the affected skin area if they are diluted with a carrier oil first. Use gentle massage to help the oil absorb into the skin.
• Never ingest essential oils: If swallowed, essential oils may be poisonous. Depending on the oil, they can cause a range of toxic effects, including seizures and liver issues.

Risks and side effects

Some potential risks and side effects of using essential oils for eczema include:

• skin irritation 
• allergic reactions 
• worsened allergic contact dermatitis, a form of eczema
• phototoxicity, a skin reaction caused by the chemicals interacting with sunlight
• inhalation risks if used in high concentrations or for prolonged periods

If you experience any of these side effects, stop using essential oils and consult a healthcare professional.

Other eczema treatments

There is no cure for eczema, but many treatment methods can help ease your symptoms and prevent flare-ups. Common eczema treatments include:

• Moisturizers: Keeping the skin moisturized can help reduce itching and inflammation associated with eczema. You can use a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizer after bathing and throughout the day.
• Topical corticosteroids: Doctors commonly prescribe these to reduce inflammation and itching in eczema-prone skin. Examples include triamcinolone (Kenalog), fluticasone (Cutivate), and hydrocortisone (Cortef).
• Antihistamines: These can help reduce itching and inflammation associated with eczema. These include diphenhydramine (Benadryl).
• Wet wraps: These can soothe and hydrate eczema-prone skin. Apply a moisturizer to the skin, wrap it with wet gauze or clothing, and then cover it with dry clothing to help seal in moisture.
• Light therapy: Light therapy involves exposing the affected skin area to controlled UV light to reduce inflammation and improve skin health.
• Immunomodulators: These medications can help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation in eczema. They may be an option when topical corticosteroids are ineffective or inappropriate. Examples include pimecrolimus (Elidel) and tacrolimus (Protopic).

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Online care for eczema

Essential oils may help soothe your symptoms, but they may not be suitable for everyone. It’s important to reach out to a healthcare professional if you have eczema to seek the proper treatment.

Online care services, including Optum Perks Online Care, may make getting treatment easier. With these services, you can submit an online form answering a few questions about your symptoms, and a US-licensed healthcare professional will respond soon after to prescribe a treatment plan.

Summary

Essential oils may be a helpful addition to an eczema management plan. However, it’s important to use them with caution and under the guidance of a professional.

Some oils may cause allergic reactions or irritate the skin, especially if misused or applied in high concentrations. A doctor or an experienced aromatherapist can help develop an individualized treatment plan that addresses your needs.

Download the free Optum Perks Discount Card to save up to 80% on many prescription medications. Plus, you can now get them delivered to your home in as little as 3 days. Search for your medication here.