Natural Remedies to Soothe Eczema Itching

If you live with eczema, you know the itch can be the worst part. Scratching brings momentary relief but can damage the skin barrier and trigger flares. Below are dermatologist-aligned, organic-friendly tips to calm itchy skin at home, plus when to see your GP or dermatologist. NHS inform

1) Moisturise regularly (the “soak & seal” method)

• Bathe or shower briefly in lukewarm water.

• Pat dry so skin is still slightly damp, then apply a rich, fragrance-free moisturiser within 3 minutes to lock in hydration. Reapply after handwashing and whenever skin feels dry.

  
  

Choosing an organic moisturiser: look for shea butter, colloidal oatmeal, or calendula; avoid added fragrance. At Samantha Lily, we use 100% Soil Association–certified organic ingredients

Try: Samantha Lily Calendula Balm — formulated for dry, itchy, eczema-prone skin. (Money-back guarantee if it’s not for you.)

2) Use a cool compress for quick itch relief

Soak a soft cloth in cool (not icy) water, wring it out, and hold it on the itchy area for several minutes. Follow with moisturiser. Cooling can temporarily reduce itch and calm inflammation.

3) Take short, lukewarm baths with skin-soothing additions

• Limit to ~10–15 minutes; avoid hot water.

• Colloidal oatmeal (about 1 cup in a standard tub) can help soothe and support the skin barrier. Moisturise immediately afterwards.

Try: Samantha Lily Eczema bath products here

Sensitive to plants? If you’re considering chamomile, patch-test first. Many people do fine, but oatmeal has stronger evidence for eczema. National Eczema Association

4) Consider simple wet wraps during tough flares

After your evening moisturiser, apply damp cotton wraps or pyjamas over the moisturised areas for several hours or overnight, then a dry layer on top. This can boost hydration and reduce itch during flare-ups. (Ask your clinician if you use prescription creams.) National Eczema Association

5) Avoid common triggers

Heat and sweat, fragranced or harsh cleansers, and stress can worsen eczema in many people. Keep baths/showers short and use mild, fragrance-free cleansers. For laundry, many do best with fragrance-free, dye-free detergents; evidence on “bio vs non-bio” enzymes is mixed, so patch-test and choose what your skin tolerates.

6) Choose breathable, natural fabrics

Wear lightweight, breathable cotton or and avoid overheating, especially at night.

7) When to see a doctor

Contact your GP or dermatologist if skin is cracked, oozing, very painful, you see yellow crusts, have fever, or flares aren’t improving with home care. You may need prescription treatment or infection management. NHS inform

FAQ

Is colloidal oatmeal safe for most people with eczema? Yes, it’s widely used and has evidence for reducing itch and improving skin barrier. Avoid if you have a known oat allergy or contact dermatitis to oats.

How soon after bathing should I moisturise? Within 3 minutes (“soak & seal”) to trap water in the skin. National Eczema Association

Do cool compresses really help? Yes, cooling the skin can temporarily reduce the itch sensation.

Which detergent is best? Choose fragrance-free, dye-free; enzymes aren’t consistently linked to irritation in consumer use, so the best choice is the one your skin tolerates.

Medical disclaimer: This guide is informational and not a substitute for personalised medical advice.