Can Olive Oil Help Eczema?

From over-the-counter ointments to steroids and UV light treatment, prescription medications are commonplace in treating eczema symptoms today.

This being said, increasing numbers of people are also looking for natural remedies to relieve dry skin, turning their hopes to the power of plant oils as a natural solution.

Throughout this post, we’re here to break down everything you need to know about:

• The therapeutic benefits of olive oil for eczema
• Other natural oils for treating eczema
• Alternative treatment methods beyond plant oils

Keep reading to learn whether virgin olive oil is an effective natural remedy for combating eczema.

What Is Olive Oil?

Olive oil is a liquid fat or juice obtained by pressing whole olives, the fruit of the Olea Europaea tree.

Extra virgin olive oil refers to the highest possible quality of olive oil. This variant is produced using a 100% cold-pressed method without adding heat or chemicals.

Skin Benefits

• Due to its high vitamin E, A, D, and K content, extra virgin olive oil has been shown to possess moisturizing properties. Olive oil protects the skin from external factors and promotes cell regeneration.
• The monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants within virgin olive oil have also been shown to promote wound healing, benefiting skin from the oil’s anti-inflammatory properties.
• It leaves skin feeling smoother and more supple.

Is Olive Oil Good for Eczema?

Atopic dermatitis (the most common type of eczema) is characterized by the dehydration of the top layer of the skin barrier due to increased transepidermal water loss. To treat your eczema symptoms, you need to focus on repairing your skin’s natural barrier, replenishing moisture, and promoting skin resiliency. The hydrating benefits of olive oil can help combat the itchy dryness of eczema while its anti-inflammatory properties can help promote wound healing. This is great if intense scratching causes the skin to crack or bleed.

That said, there isn’t a ‘one size fits all solution’ when it comes to treating your skin. Because of this, some people may notice that olive oil makes their skin drier in the long run. This may be due to olive oil’s disproportionate ratio of oleic acid to linoleic acid which can affect its ability to restore moisture to a deeper level. While one study may indicate that olive oil isn’t great for eczema-prone skin, there isn’t enough evidence to rule it out for anyone.

Alternative Plant Oils

When it comes to healing damaged skin barriers, olive oil isn’t the only natural remedies with impressive therapeutic benefits.

Virgin coconut oil 

As well as harnessing significant moisturizing properties, coconut oil is high in essential fatty acids and antibacterial properties, effectively fighting off Staphylococcus Aureus (a bacterial infection common for people with eczema).

Sunflower seed oil

Made up of predominantly oleic acid and linoleic acid, sunflower oil is highly effective at improving deep skin hydration, restoring balance to the skin’s natural barrier. This oil also boasts anti-inflammatory properties.

Jojoba oil

Effectively locks in moisture to protect the skin against external elements that may exacerbate eczema flare-ups. The anti-inflammatory properties of jojoba oil also help to relieve irritated skin.

Argan oil

Improving skin elasticity and softness, argan oil possesses deeply moisturizing benefits, again helping to restore the adult skin barrier and effectively soothe eczema symptoms.

Other oils 

Other natural oils such as sweet almond oil, rosehip oil, shea butter, tea tree oil, and many essential oils have also been shown to treat eczema symptoms, helping to reduce inflammation.

Before starting a natural treatment plan, we encourage you to consult your dermatologist or healthcare professional to ensure your chosen route is the safest and best.

Beyond Natural Oils: Alternative Eczema Treatments

Maybe natural oils aren’t for you, or perhaps you want to use these oils alongside other treatment methods for maximum healing effects?

If this is the case, there are many other natural remedies for tending to dry skin.

Oatmeal Baths

Oatmeal is naturally soothing for dry and irritated skin. A relaxing soak at the end of a long day can also be a great way to relieve stress – which is another primary trigger for eczema flares.

The Conqueror Oatmeal Bath for Eczema is made with simple, effective ingredients, and the formula is free of parabens, phthalates, artificial fragrances, dyes, petrochemicals, and mineral oils. Soothe your itchy, red, cracked skin with wholesome ingredients and enjoy immediate, calming results. 

Moisturize

Suppose pure plant oils are not effective at soothing your skin condition. In that case, you may try finding natural skincare products that incorporate natural oils as an active agent alongside other fragrance-free ingredients with anti inflammatory effects.

For example, the Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream is an oil-based balm comprising Organic Olive Oil, Organic Beeswax, Filtered Water, Grape Seed Oil, Active 16+ New Zealand Manuka Honey, and Manuka Oil Extract.

Here, combining olive oil with manuka honey can harness the latter’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties to promote wound healing better. Beeswax serves to attract water and help the skin stay hydrated. This honey-kissed, sensitive skin moisturizer is safe for even the most delicate skin, including babies and children.

Wet Wraps

In more severe cases, simply moisturizing your skin is not enough. Don’t fret! The traditional technique of wet wrapping offers impressive skin barrier repair effects for eczema patients.

How Does Wet Wrapping Work?

• First, generously apply a natural emollient product to your eczema-affected skin, such as the Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream mentioned above.
• Next, wrap your skin with a wet gauze or gentle fabric dampened with warm water. The Remedywear™ (TENCEL + Zinc) Sleeves/Bandages are an excellent option for wet wrap therapy, made from hypoallergenic, anti-inflammatory materials.
• On top, lock in the moisture with an added dry layer of fabric. This also helps you to wear the wet wrap underneath your clothes or pajamas more comfortably.
• Wear overnight for intensive relief.

Treat Eczema Safely and Effectively Today

Eczema is a lifelong skin condition. While olive oil for eczema is no quick cure, there are many other ways to ensure this disease remains manageable, helping you feel your best.

If you’re looking for alternative treatments, follow these tips to help you soothe your dry skin naturally and combat eczema flare-ups today.