What Are the Benefits of Olive Oil for Eczema?

Olive oil has been used on skin dating back to ancient Greek civilizations. For those with eczema or extremely dry skin, this oil will penetrate deep into the epidermis to nourish and soften skin without any unnatural ingredients or allergens.

Importance of Olive Oil

Olive oil is used everyday for health purposes, including eczema. It is safer to use than other oils you would find on the market because it is all-natural and very few people are allergic to it. Therefore, there is very little chance it would cause any type of damaging skin reaction. Even for those who suffer from severe eczema, sensitive skin or contact dermatitis, olive oil is a good choice to assuage dry, flaky skin.

When purchasing olive oil, look for extra virgin. Other types of olive oils may be treated and processed. Extra virgin will be the purest form you can buy and the most dependable for treating eczema.

Make Your Own Olive Oil Lotion

For those who suffer from eczema and are too cautious to try products on the market because of past allergic reactions, you can make your own lotions and potions using all-natural ingredients. Mixing a few drops of water and 1/4 cup of olive oil will create a thicker paste that you can rub on your skin. Also, adding sugar to oil will create an exfoliant that can rid your skin of the flakiness caused by eczema. Be sure to follow this up with plenty of lotion.

Using ingredients such as beeswax, honey or an egg will thicken olive oil so you can use it as a mask or strong, potent lotion.

Products You Can Purchase

To reap the full benefits of olive oil for those with eczema, always look for cosmetic products on the market that contain olive oil. These include lip balm, bath oils, lotions and massage oils. You can use these right after you bathe when pores are open or at night before you sleep.

If you suffer from extremely dry hands, try adding a few drops of pure olive oil into water and soak your hands in them. Then, rub a lotion containing olive oil onto your hands and cover them with gloves. If you can, sleep with the gloves on so by morning, your hands will be less flaky.