Eczema is a skin condition that causes dry, itchy and inflamed skin. It often appears in childhood, and can be mild, moderate or severe. Here’s a look at how bath salts can help to manage eczema.
What causes eczema?
Many people find that it is triggered or made worse by certain substances, and this type of eczema is known as contact dermatitis. It’s often caused by harsh chemicals in soaps and detergents.
Atopic dermatitis is usually an inherited condition that begins in childhood, and is thought to be caused by an overactive immune response. It is often associated with allergies such as hay fever and dust and animal allergies. Eczema can affect any part of the body, but it most often occurs on the hands and behind the elbow and knee joints.
Eczema can be a frustrating condition to live with, affecting sleep, concentration, and increasing the risk of infections. Severe eczema can also affect self esteem and lead to a lack of confidence in personal relationships. It’s usually treated with topical steroid creams, but prolonged use can thin the skin and is advised against by doctors.
The benefits of salt baths for eczema
Bath salts, particularly Epsom salts, are a traditional remedy for eczema. They contain natural anti-inflammatory properties such as magnesium, which helps to soothe angry itching skin. The salt also works as a mild exfoliant, helping to soften rough dry patches and enable moisturisers to skin in more effectively.
To use Epsom salts to treat eczema, simply fill a bath that is warm but not hot, add one to two cups of salt, and soak for 15 to 20 minutes. Source the Epsom salt carefully to check that it is 100 per cent natural and is not manufactured from synthetic ingredients.
Other benefits of salt baths
Many people use salt baths not only to relieve skin problems, but also to ease joint pain and help manage inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. This may be because they don’t want to deal with the side effects of long-term prescription or over the counter medication, or simply to complement their existing pain management plan.
Epsom salt is rich in magnesium, which can help to reduce inflammation, improve the circulation, and relax muscles. Other types of salt including Red Sea salt, Himalayan salt, and Dead Sea salt, are also rich in magnesium and potassium, and have similar soothing effects.
To use, simply add one to two cups of salt to a warm bath and soak for 15 or 20 minutes.
Natural salts are a simple but effective solution for managing inflammatory skin and joint conditions, either as an alternative to conventional medications, or to complement them. The results can be enhanced with good hydration and a diet that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and anti-inflammatory foods such as leafy greens, dark berries, and turmeric.
