Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts derived from plants. Eczema, most commonly atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition causing dry, intensely itchy, and red patches. The skin barrier becomes compromised, leading to moisture loss and increased sensitivity. While essential oils cannot cure eczema, certain varieties offer relief by leveraging their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
Understanding Essential Oils and Eczema Skin
Essential oils contain chemical compounds that offer various biological activities, including anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. Applied topically, these properties help reduce the redness and swelling associated with eczema flare-ups. The defective skin barrier allows irritants to penetrate easily and struggles to retain moisture. This compromised state makes the skin vulnerable to infection, especially from Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, which often colonizes eczema skin. The antimicrobial action of some oils can inhibit the growth of these pathogenic bacteria, preventing secondary infections. Essential oils must always be mixed with a carrier oil, which provides a moisturizing base to support skin barrier function.
Top Essential Oils for Soothing Eczema
Lavender oil is recommended for sensitive skin due to its calming properties, which reduce sensitivity and itchiness. The oil promotes skin regeneration, helping repair small breaks and lesions caused by scratching. Additionally, the aroma of lavender is known for its ability to reduce stress, a common trigger for eczema flare-ups.
Chamomile oil, particularly the German or Roman varieties, has strong anti-inflammatory and soothing effects. It contains compounds that help calm the immune response in the skin, reducing redness and irritation. This oil also possesses anti-pruritic qualities, minimizing the urge to scratch and protecting the skin from further damage.
Rose geranium oil contains active ingredients known for their anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. These effects make it a beneficial choice for managing eczema symptoms, which often involve inflammation and microbial imbalance. Frankincense oil, derived from Boswellia species, has also been indicated in studies as reducing inflammation in eczema and psoriasis.
Safe Dilution and Application Methods
Dilution Guidelines
Essential oils are highly concentrated and can cause severe irritation if applied directly to the skin, making dilution mandatory. For sensitive eczema skin, a very low dilution ratio is necessary, typically starting between 0.5% and 1% of the total blend. This translates to roughly 3 to 6 drops of essential oil per one ounce (30 ml) of carrier oil.
Carrier Oils
The carrier oil selection is important, acting as the moisturizing and protective vehicle. Cold-pressed virgin coconut oil is an excellent choice because it contains monolaurin, a fatty acid that reduces S. aureus colonization. Sunflower seed oil, rich in linoleic acid, helps the skin produce ceramides, improving the natural barrier function. Jojoba oil is also widely used due to its similarity to the skin’s natural oils.
Application Methods
Topical application is the most common method, involving gentle massaging of the diluted blend into affected areas. Alternatively, a few drops of the diluted oil can be incorporated into a sensitive-skin moisturizer before application. For widespread relief, a soothing warm bath can be prepared by mixing the diluted oil blend with a dispersant, such as unscented liquid soap or whole milk, before adding it to the bathwater.
Important Safety Considerations and Oils to Avoid
Patch Testing
Before applying any essential oil blend to eczema-prone skin, perform a small patch test. Apply a small, diluted amount to a discreet, unaffected patch of skin and wait 24 hours. Check for any signs of redness, burning, or increased irritation. If an adverse reaction occurs, immediately wash the area and discontinue use.
Oils to Avoid
A number of essential oils are known sensitizers or irritants and should be avoided entirely by those with eczema:
- Citrus oils (lemon, lime, bergamot) must be avoided due to phototoxicity, which can cause severe skin burns when exposed to sunlight.
- Highly potent and warming oils such as cinnamon, clove, and oregano are known to cause skin irritation.
- Peppermint can be problematic, as the menthol is an irritant.
- Tea tree oil is a frequent cause of allergic contact dermatitis on sensitive skin.
Essential oils should never be taken internally. Individuals who are pregnant, nursing, or considering use for children should always consult with a healthcare professional first.