Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that affects more than 35 million people in the U.S. alone, myself included. Because eczema is commonly found in many members of the same family, it’s believed to have a hereditary component. If you also suffer from eczema, you probably know all too well how difficult it can be to find an over-the-counter treatment the provides lasting results. But before you turn to the prescription creams and medications, check out these tried-and-true OTC products that help treat the dry, scaly skin, and ease the intense itching associated with eczema.

Aveeno Eczema Care Moisturizing Cream: This cream is one of the first products I turned to when my eczema outbreak became unbearable. I don’t know if it’s the colloidal oatmeal, which forms a protective barrier and attracts moisture to the skin, but this product is extremely soothing and healing. It’s also enriched with an essential lipid that plays a key role in enhancing and restoring the skin’s protective function. Not to mention, it’s clinically shown to help reduce itching and irritation. My favorite thing about this product is that it’s super gentle, so not only is it one of my favorite products for treating my eczema, it’s also great for my baby cousin. (Available in several sizes; $8 to $15 Online & In Stores)

Eucerin Aquaphor Advanced Therapy Healing Ointment : This product has also been very helpful in the treatment of eczema. If you find “oily based” products more soothing than creams, you may prefer this product over the Aveeno. Many people take issue with the fact that Petrolatum (petroleum jelly) is the active ingredient in this product, but don’t be fooled, this isn’t just regular ol’ “Vaseline”. Aquaphor is great for protecting and soothing extremely dry, raw, irritated skin, and I find that it absorbs much better than plain petroleum jelly. Eucerin also has a great line of cream-based products called Eucerin Eczema Relief — especially formulated to help relieve the itchiness and irritation caused by eczema, which I find very similar to the Aveeno products. (Available in several sizes; about $5 to $15 Online & In Stores)

CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion : This lotion isn’t marketed as a product specifically for eczema, but boy does it still deliver. It features a unique formula that increases the skin’s ability to attract, hold, and distribute moisture. And unlike most lotions and creams that need to be applied several times throughout the day, CeraVe provides a controlled release of ingredients to repair and restore skin, which allows the lotion to moisturize your skin longer, and limit moisture loss. If you have eczema on your face or over a large portion of your body, for better results, consider using the CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser or CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser before applying the lotion. (Available in several sizes; about $6 to $15 Online & In Stores)

Cetaphil RestoraDerm Skin Restoring Body Wash : I haven’t tried this product myself, but I’ve heard lots of great things about it. What I like about this soap–free cleanser, is that it contains natural ingredients, such as shea butter and sunflower seed oil, which preserve skin hydration. It’s also gentle enough not to cause irritation to eczema-prone skin. (About $14 Online & In Stores)

Shea Butter : Shea butter is my all-time favorite product for treating eczema. I prefer using 100% raw, unrefined shea butter because it contains a rich amount of fatty acids and essential vitamins, necessary for rejuvenating and moisturizing dry, itchy skin. You can apply raw shea butter directly to your skin, or create a whipped shea butter cream. Here’s my personal recipe that every eczema sufferer in my family uses:

D.I.Y Eczema Cream

2 oz. Raw Shea Butter (hydrates, softens, and protects skin)
2 oz. Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil (antibacterial and anti-fungal properties that cleanse and moisturize skin)
15 to 25 drops of an essential oil, such as tea tree, rosemary, lavender, or peppermint (antimicrobial properties that treat itching and inflammation)

Directions – Add the shea butter to a metal or plastic bowl. Since shea butter is solid, you’ll need to melt it before whipping it. You can melt the shea butter by using a double boiler, or placing the bowl in a saucepan of hot water. Just make sure the water doesn’t get into the bowl. Once the shea butter is melted, add the coconut oil, and stir with a spoon. Allow the mixture to cool for about 30 minutes, then add the essential oil(s). Now that the mixture has started to solidify, you’re ready to use your electric hand mixer to whip it for about 10 to 20 minutes, depending on your preference. Apply the cream to your skin as you normally would. Store the cream in a cool place to prevent melting. You can find all these ingredients on Amazon.com.

Source: http://www.yourbeautyadvisor.com/2014/09/five-great-products-for-treating-eczema/

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Shampoo That Loves Your Hair

A typical hair regrowth shampoo features botanical extracts, hair growing ingredient, antioxidants, keratin substances, and a host of beneficial elements. The idea is to create a favorable environment on the scalp to help hair grow.

What does the shampoo do?
It revitalizes scalp. It removes previous chemical buildup to open up follicles. This stimulates follicles to produce newer and healthier hair. The shampoo strengthens hair and reduces hair loss, say reviews. Its sulfate-free formula appears as boon for your hair.

The shampoo has the power to bring life to your hair. It transforms your mane. Regular use of this shampoo infuses charm and health in your tresses…something that you simply cannot ignore.

Do all the shampoos work in similar manner?
No. The hair regrowth shampoo that has received unlimited laurels from users is from Keranique. Its risk free trial offer is available at the brand’s official website. You can try the shampoo out before spending money on it.

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