Surprising Treatment for Eczema That’s Just Hidden Under Your Sink

Welcome if you’re among the 31 million Americans who suffer from eczema. It’s important to be aware of the effects that chilly temperatures can have on your skin. This is especially true if you want to avoid scaly patches. It might appear that a doctor-prescribed topical steroid will be all that is needed to provide relief. While this is a good option for some cases, it’s not the best.

It is possible to make your skin better with bleach, as crazy as that may sound (as with many under-the-radar skin-care secrets, word-of mouth spread the word about bleach). Alicia Yoon, founder of Peach& Lily shares “As a teenager I began taking bleach baths to relieve my persistent eczema and continued this practice throughout adulthood.” She says that she has kept the bleach bath in her toolkit to help with any flare-ups. “I like to take a bleach bath if my flare-ups are more severe and don’t go away.”

The idea of bleaching your skin for eczema may seem extreme at first. How could such a harsh chemical be beneficial to your already stressed skin?! It turns out that there are some scientific facts to support this claim. Dr. Dhaval G.Bhanusali MD FAAD says, “We learn early in residency that this is a staple of moderate to severe acne.” It is recommended for patients with eczema who are susceptible to recurring infections or have compromised, weepy, skin. (Weepy skin refers to active blisters that are oozing for the record).

How Does Bleach Help Eczema?

Dr. Bhanusali explained that eczema can disrupt your epidermal barrier and put you at risk of developing severe recurrent infections such as Staph Aureus. Bleach baths are an alternative to antibacterial treatments that can be used indefinitely without increasing the risk of antibiotic resistance.

Dr. Joshua Zeichner is Associate Professor of Dermatology, and Director of Cosmetic & Clinical Research in Dermatology, Mount Sinai Hospital. “Our microbiome refers to the microorganisms living in symbiotic relationships on our skin. The microbiome can be easily altered in eczema. This allows for an overgrowth of staph bacteria, which is linked to both flare-ups and superficial skin infections. Bleach baths can reduce staph levels and prevent skin infections. They also help to maintain a healthy skin barrier.”

Bleach is also an affordable option that can be used for eczema patients, particularly when it’s not possible to visit the doctor.

Bleach Safety

Treatment is not like you’re soaking your body in bleach. Experts stress that the bleach is added in a very small amount to a full bath of warm (but not hot) water. Dr. Zeichner elaborated, saying, “I recommend adding 1/2 cup bleach to a half-filled tub and soaking for 10 minutes. After that, rinse your skin with water.”

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, bleach should be used to add 1/4 cup of water to half a bathtub. 1/2 cup is enough to fill a full tub. Be sure to not scrub your skin or use any other bath products while you soak. The purpose of the bath is to marinate for a few minutes before you rinse off with warm water. Yoon said that although it might feel uncomfortable at first when the water touches your skin, it quickly dissipates.

Although bleach may seem harsh, it isn’t as irritating as rubbing alcohol. However, if you are still unsure about bleaching, Dr. Zeichner suggests using “sodium hydrochlorite,” a cousin of bleach that isn’t irritating and won’t bleach fabrics. It’s gentler on the skin, such as the CLn Body Wash.

Yoon suggests that you only take a bleach bath if your skin is prone to flare-ups. Dr. Bhanusali recommends that you use it once per week if you have still got scaly skin. It’s tempting to believe that more is better, but you could make your eczema worse by embracing a “more is less” mentality. Apply a body lotion with lots of emollients after you have dried off. It’s the final touch that will ensure your skin is healthy and free from irritation.

Consult your doctor before using any bleach treatment!

Are you looking for some great moisturizers that will keep your sensitive skin hydrated, soft and itch-free? Below are five choices.

• Ellis Brooklyn Amazing CBD Extra Rich Body Lotion cream

CBD has become so popular that it can seem like a passing skin care trend. However, a well-formulated product can provide powerful soothing effects. The cream contains full-spectrum CBD (also known by “whole plant extract”), which helps to calm eczema flares. Shea butter provides moisture and nourishes. This cream is worth the effort.

• Avene Skin Recovery Cream

The French classic is known for its ability to soothe even the most sensitive skin. The rich shea butter moisturizes your skin while providing protection against environmental damage.

• Aquaphor Original Formula & Healing Formula

This ointment is trusted by dermatologists and tattoo artists alike. The 41% petroleum formula, which costs less than an oat milk latté, restores moisture to dry patches of skin, as well as your lips, cuticles and everything in between.

• Augustinus Bader The Hand Treatment

This celebrity-favorite brand has a patented ingredient that was developed originally for burn victims. Dr. Bader’s TFC8 signature uses a mixture of amino acids, vitamins and synthesized molecules in order to heal damaged skin and prevent future irritations. It is important to use a targeted hand cream, especially if you are prone to eczema.

• Peach & Lily K-Beauty Repair Balm

Panthenol is used to repair and restore damaged skin. This product is a good place to start if you are new to K-beauty.