Use a few drops at first to avoid any irritation. Never apply it to your face. Avoid using it on the chest of infants or young children, as it can be harmful if they inhale it. There's very limited research on peppermint oil and its effects on eczema, so be cautious about using it.
How to Reduce Eczema Itch at Night (So You Can Sleep)
It is anti-inflammatory Peppermint essential oil is used to soothe inflammation, irritation and itchiness on skin and scalp. It promotes wound-healing, and it is also touted as a natural remedy for soothing bug bites, and providing relief in pruritus, a common skin infection which leads to rashes, hives and itchiness.
There are steps you can take that may prevent eczema flare-ups and outbreaks, including: Moisturize your skin regularly or when your skin becomes dry. Seal in moisture after a bath or shower by immediately applying moisturizer to your skin. Take baths or showers with warm, not hot, water.
Corticosteroid creams, solutions, gels, foams, and ointments. These treatments, made with hydrocortisone steroids, can quickly relieve itching and reduce inflammation. They come in different strengths, from mild over-the-counter (OTC) treatments to stronger prescription medicines.
To help reduce itching and soothe inflamed skin, try these self-care measures:
Apply an over-the-counter steroid cream (hydrocortisone) along with anti-itching lotion (menthol/camphor, such as calamine). The cream must be applied as often as possible, without skipping days, until the rash is gone. Take diphenhydramine in pill form for the itching.
To help reduce itching and soothe inflamed skin, try these self-care measures:
People with a specific enzyme deficiency, called G6PD deficiency, should avoid using peppermint as an extract or oil in aromatherapy. People taking certain medications. Peppermint oil aromatherapy can inhibit an enzyme called CYP3A4, which is responsible for breaking down many types of medication.
Peppermint oil's cooling properties can help reduce itching caused by bug bites, poison ivy, and hives. It can also be used to calm itching related to diabetes, liver disease, and kidney disease. In a 2016 study, participants experienced itch relief when using peppermint oil combined with petrolatum.
For a severe outbreak, apply steroid cream and then wrap a wet bandage around the area to keep it moist. Light therapy from the sun or with a UV ray device at your doctor's office may ease outbreaks, too. For strong eczema itching that keeps you up at night, try oral antihistamines.
For a severe outbreak, apply steroid cream and then wrap a wet bandage around the area to keep it moist. Light therapy from the sun or with a UV ray device at your doctor's office may ease outbreaks, too. For strong eczema itching that keeps you up at night, try oral antihistamines.
"Like many essential oils, it can be a skin irritant so care should be taken when using products containing peppermint oil," Dobos said. Start using the oil every few days as you determine how your skin tolerates it, and stop use/wash off immediately if you develop any redness, burning, stinging or peeling.
The topical application of peppermint oil is generally safe, although it is necessary to dilute with a carrier oil like almond or jojoba oil. It is advised that some people may experience a burning sensation or allergic rash, especially with sensitive skin.
6 ways to relieve itchy eczema at home
Though you might be tempted to blame a weak immune system for skin flare-ups, your immune system is not at fault. Eczema is actually the result of an overreaction by your immune system. Typically harmless substances — such as pollen or pet dander — are often the source of your body's strong reaction.
To help reduce itching and soothe inflamed skin, try these self-care measures:
Essential oils increase sensitivity People with eczema are advised to stay away from essential oils because, in some cases of prolonged or repeated exposure, they can cause the skin to become more sensitive. In other words, they can aggravate eczema, similarly to an irritant.
It's also important to remember that peppermint essential oil is very concentrated and should always be diluted properly before topical use. Only a few drops of essential oil are needed for diluting in an ounce of carrier oil. In some cases, peppermint oil that's applied to the skin may cause irritation or a rash.
Here's five common ways to improve your symptoms of eczema.
DOs and DON'Ts in Managing Eczema: DO avoid triggers of the rash, including stress. DO moisturize your skin daily, even when you have no symptoms. Use an odor-free oil-based cream or ointment (not lotion), best applied just after bathing while skin is still damp. Use hypoallergenic products when possible.