Suggestions for controlling Eczema???

[lwoodall10]

Hi,

I have had Eczema for several years and was just curious if anyone had any suggestions for controlling it? EDM use to have a limited skincare line and had something called "Horsetail Salve" I can't remember if that is the exact name, but it worked really well between outbreaks, but of course it was discontinued and I have not found anything that works as well. Any suggestions would be great. Thanks in advance...

Susan

[lairkeeper]

Hi Susan. I sent you a PM about the Horsetail.

[lwoodall10]

Lairkeeper - Thanks for the info. I really appreciate it. I PM`d you too, but you can ignore it. I was just saying thanks. Still a newb to posting on these boards. Im usually just lurking, taking in all the advice, but eveyone is so nice here. Susan

[lairkeeper]

I like it here too!

[Bluebird]

You probably already know this but just in case, stay away from detergent cleansing bars (like everything sold at a typical grocery store). Try for handcrafted stuff at your local health store or online. The handcrafted stuff is SOOO much better for the skin, ESPECIALLY eczema. I suffered with so many skin problems for years until I began making and using my own soaps...that alone made such a huge difference for me. I still have some minor issues with my skin but they are nothing compared to what they used to be. Also,if you can...stick with the salves and balms versus moisturizing creams. The salve that has done wonders for me has alot of calendula infused oil in it. A good salve will have no water which means it's loaded with skin loving stuff and won't evaporate on ya quickly. Moisturizing creams are in the ballpark of 60 % water and then they need to throw in some harmful chemicals to counteract various bacteria from growing in the presence of all that water...not the best choice if your trying to deal with eczema...HTH

[Rhys]

CP Castille soap and lots of cocoa butter here.

My gran used to make some kind of poultices out of oats and I don't remember what-all else that worked wonders when I was a child.

[lwoodall10]

Bluebird - Are the body washes bad as well? I have been using "Olay with Creme Ribbons" which seems to have helped somewhat. But I go through so much body lotions. I need to buy it by the vat. I have definitely notice that the salves or ointments work better than lotion or cremes on flare ups. You mentioned in your post that you make your own soap. Is it difficult? I may be interested in making my own if the difficulty level isn't too high...

Rhys - Thanks for the info, I have never tried either one of those, in fact, I have never even heard of Castille Soap. I have used Shea Butter, but I don't like the smell.

Susan

[Bluebird]

I'm not sure about the body washes…they came out after I got addicted… er… I mean started making cp soap so I’ve never tried them on a regular basis. I do know that whoever I give soaps to always come back wanting more because the first winter they tried them was the first winter that they didn’t have such and such problem (like cracking, peeling, itching, stinging, flaking) with their skin....I’ve never heard comments being made like that for body washes…(maybe cause they know I'm a little biased) It’s REALLY easy making cp soap. I’ve been making it for about 12 years now and STILL have alot fun with it!

[lwoodall10]

Thanks for the info...I love doing crafty stuff. I might be late for Holiday gifting, but sounds like something fun to order and play with. Plus I think I will probably save money making my own.

[karen]

I totally agree about the CP soap. My favorite is a creamy goats milk. I generally buy it on Etsy or at local craft fairs, but all of you soapers have me ready to come out of "retirement" and make a batch or two. How is the water at your house? The water here is really hard, and we ended-up getting a shower filter. It makes a giant difference, and it's not a difficult or expensive project.