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Around 204 million people worldwide live with atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, which roughly comes to about 2.6% of the global population. In India, studies have shown that eczema affects around 9.2% of the population, with children being particularly susceptible.
If you've ever experienced the constant itching of eczema, you know how it can disrupt your daily life. While there are a number of treatments available, one simple and effective home remedy is the use of cool compresses.
Cool compresses are simple to make and can be soothing for your skin. They calm the skin, reduce redness and control the desire to scratch, preventing further irritation. Let us understand how to use cool compresses safely, and take a look at some additional tips to manage eczema symptoms at home.
How Should I Use a Cool Compress for Eczema?
A cool compress is one of the best home remedies if you are suffering from eczema. Let us see how to make and use a cool compress to reduce eczema itching and irritation:
Step 1: Pick the Right Material
First choose the right towel or cloth. For eczema, you should use a gentle, fresh, lint-free cloth. You can use cotton as it is gentle on the skin and has absorbent qualities. Avoid rough materials or towels with heavy textures which further aggravate your skin.
Step 2: Prepare the Compress
Soak the cloth in cold water. The water shouldn't be ice cold as it can shock your skin and worsen symptoms. After the cloth is completely soaked, wring it out so it's damp but not dripping.
Step 3: Apply to Affected Area
Place the damp cloth on eczema-affected areas of the body. The coolness will help calm your itching and inflammation. Leave the cloth there for 10-15 minutes. When the cloth gets dry during this time, you can re-wet it and apply again for continued relief.
Step 4: Repeat as Needed
You can apply cool compresses several times daily, particularly when the itch is getting stronger. Regular use can help manage acute flare-ups and reduce the overall discomfort caused by eczema.
Step 5: Aftercare
When you remove the cool compress, moisturise your skin immediately. Select a natural Ayurvedic moisturiser like Aloe Vera to lock in moisture and protect the skin barrier. This is essential since eczema-prone skin usually lacks moisture, causing more serious eczema symptoms.
Pro Tips for Maximum Relief
Fabric Choice: Use a soft material like cotton. These materials will not irritate your skin and can help to retain moisture.
Temperature Balance: Be sure the water is cool but comfortable. You can test the temperature first with your hands to ensure it won't harm your skin.
Hydration: Keep your skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water during the day. Hydrated skin is less prone to experience eczema flare-ups.
Environment: Keep your living space cool and humidity-controlled. Note that hot and dry air can intensify your eczema symptoms.
What Are the Instant Benefits of Cool Compresses on Eczema?
Using cool compresses can instantly reduce the symptoms of eczema. Let us understand how this simple treatment can soothe your skin and what changes you might see right away.
Soothing Your Skin with Cool Compresses
When you place a cool compress on an eczema flare-up, the first thing you'll notice is a soothing sensation. It is because the coolness helps to calm the nerve endings which transmit itching signals to your mind. It is just like instructing your skin to breathe and relax. This instant cooling effect feels like a huge help when you have been battling the urge to scratch all day.
Reducing Itching
One of the most severe signs of eczema is intense itching. A cool compress acts like an anti-itch lotion. It lowers the temperature of the skin and therefore reduces the severity of the itch. You may notice that you are not scratching as much, which is important because scratching can further irritate your skin and even lead to infections.
Decreasing Inflammation
Eczema makes your skin red and inflamed. A cool compress may ease this inflammation similar to putting out a fire. The cooling sensation from the compress decreases the heat generated by inflammation, leading to a reduction in redness and swelling. This not only makes you feel better but also helps to repair your skin.
What Precautions Should You Take When Using Cool Compresses for Eczema?
As we have seen, cool compresses are an excellent remedy to ease eczema flare ups, but it is important to use them cautiously to prevent undesirable skin irritation. Here, we have mentioned some precautions to keep this remedy safe and effective for you.
Avoid Too Cold Temperatures
Firstly, check the temperature of your compress. If the compress is too cold, it could easily shock your skin and trigger numbness and deterioration of your eczema. Rather than ice cold water, use cool water which is refreshing yet not icy. This provides relief without irritating your skin.
Be Gentle on Application
When applying a cool compress, be gentle. Eczema skin is delicate and can be easily damaged. Any vigorous rubbing or hard pressing with the compress may tear the skin barrier and cause more inflammation or infection. Pat the compress onto your skin gently and let it sit without pressing down.
Moisturise Afterward
Your skin might feel a little dry after using a cool compress. Right after removing the compress, use some moisturiser to prevent it from drying your eczema more. Choose a fragrance free, sensitive-skin moisturiser to avoid irritation.
Learn When to Skip Compresses
Occasionally, you might need to skip the cool compress. If your skin is cracked, has open wounds or your skin is bleeding, a cool compress could trigger infection or more irritation. In case you notice signs like increased redness, burning or more itching, stop using them and talk to your Ayurvedic doctor first.
Final Thoughts
Cool compresses are an excellent natural remedy if you are struggling with eczema. If you learn to use these compresses comfortably and properly, you can manage your eczema problems easily at home. It’s a simple, low-cost remedy that gives fast relief when your skin feels hot, itchy, or irritated. And the best part is that you don’t need fancy tools, just a clean cloth and some cool water can help you feel better in minutes.
Still have doubts or need a personalised consultation? Our team of experienced Jiva doctors is here to help. Call us today on 0129-4264323.
