Vegetable oils for eczema

Eczema, this inflammatory skin condition, affects a considerable number of people, causing significant discomfort and sometimes very debilitating symptoms. Characterized by redness , intense itching , dry skin , and sometimes weeping lesions, eczema can significantly impair quality of life. Faced with this dermatological challenge, more and more people are turning to natural approaches to soothe and relieve their skin, and among these, plant oils stand out as valuable allies.

These natural extracts, rich in bioactive compounds, offer a gentle and respectful solution for atopic skin or skin prone to contact reactions. Far from being mere moisturizers, they work deep down to restore skin balance, soothe inflammation , and strengthen the skin barrier . Throughout this article, we will explore the best plant oils for relieving eczema, effective application methods, and essential precautions for incorporating these treasures of nature into your skincare routine.

What is eczema and how can vegetable oils help?

Eczema, or dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by inflammation of the epidermis. A distinction is made primarily between atopic eczema (or atopic dermatitis), often genetic in origin and linked to a predisposition to allergies, and contact eczema, caused by an allergic or irritant reaction to a specific substance. In both cases, the skin barrier is compromised, making the skin more permeable to external aggressors and more sensitive to irritants and allergens.

Common symptoms include intense itching (pruritus), redness , dry skin , scaling, and sometimes blisters or scabs. The itch-scratch cycle can worsen the condition, leading to lesions and thickening of the skin. This is where plant oils come in, offering a natural approach to soothe these discomforts and promote skin repair.

Their inherent properties make them excellent remedies. Rich in essential fatty acids ( omega-3 and omega-6 ) and vitamin E , they deeply nourish the skin, help rebuild the protective hydrolipidic film, and thus strengthen the skin barrier . Their anti-inflammatory and soothing action helps calm redness and itching , offering welcome relief. Furthermore, their ability to promote healing helps repair areas damaged by scratching, essential for a truly natural treatment of eczema.

The best plant oils to relieve eczema

Choosing the right vegetable oil is crucial for maximizing its effectiveness against eczema. Each oil has a unique profile of fatty acids and vitamins, giving it specific properties. Here is a selection of the most renowned oils for their benefits on atopic and sensitive skin .

Borage oil: a powerful ally against eczema

Borage oil ( Borago officinalis ) is often cited as a must-have for atopic skin . Its exceptional richness in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid , makes it a powerful anti-inflammatory . Clinical studies have demonstrated that ingesting or topically applying borage oil can significantly improve the condition of eczema-prone skin, reducing redness and itching and restoring skin elasticity. It helps strengthen the skin's hydrolipidic film, making it less permeable to allergens.

Tamanu oil: the anti-inflammatory gold standard

Tamanu oil ( Calophyllum inophyllum ) is a true panacea for skin conditions, including eczema. Its anti-inflammatory , healing, and regenerative properties are remarkable. It is particularly effective at soothing irritated skin, reducing redness , and promoting the repair of damaged tissue. Tamanu oil is ideal for acute flare-ups, acting as a restorative balm that relieves discomfort and helps prevent secondary infections caused by scratching.

Sweet almond oil: soothing and calming for irritated skin

Sweet almond oil is renowned for its gentleness and soothing properties. Rich in omega-9 and omega-6 fatty acids, it is ideal for nourishing dry and fragile skin , especially that of babies or people with sensitive skin. It helps protect the skin from dehydration, reduces discomfort associated with itching , and promotes healing. While not as specifically anti-inflammatory as borage or tamanu oil, its moisturizing and softening properties make it an excellent base for diluting other, more active oils or for daily use.

Other beneficial vegetable oils: black cumin, evening primrose, avocado

Many other vegetable oils deserve mention for their role in the natural treatment of eczema:

• Black seed oil ( Nigella sativa ) is known for its anti-inflammatory , anti-allergic, and antibacterial properties thanks to thymoquinone. One study even showed its potential to replace corticosteroids in the short term for dyshidrosis (hand eczema) (Yousefi et al., 2013). It nourishes and repairs the hydrolipidic film.
• Evening primrose oil ( Oenothera biennis ), similar to borage oil in its GLA content, is also very effective for chronic skin inflammations, promoting skin regeneration and soothing itching .
• Avocado oil , rich in vitamin E and antioxidants, deeply nourishes, softens and stimulates cell regeneration, ideal for rough and damaged skin.
• Calendula macerate , obtained by macerating calendula flowers in a vegetable oil, is a very soothing, anti-inflammatory and healing natural active ingredient, particularly suitable for sensitive skin and babies.
• Jojoba oil , whose composition is close to that of human sebum, helps to regulate hydration and maintain skin balance.
• Coconut oil ( Cocos nucifera ) offers intense hydration and soothing properties for dry and irritated skin.
• Hemp oil , rich in omega 3 and omega 6 , helps strengthen the skin barrier and soothe itching .
• Rosehip oil , known for its healing and regenerative properties.

Discover all the vegetable oils at Pleine-Forme.net

How to use vegetable oils to treat eczema

The effectiveness of plant oils also lies in how they are applied. A regular and appropriate routine is essential to see significant improvements in eczema .

Direct application: instructions for use

For direct application, pour a few drops of your chosen vegetable oil (such as borage oil , tamanu oil , or sweet almond oil ) into the palm of your hand. Warm it slightly by rubbing your palms together, then gently apply it to the areas affected by eczema, massaging until fully absorbed. It is often recommended to apply the oil to slightly damp skin, for example, after a shower or bath, for better penetration and optimal hydration . Repeat this two to three times a day, especially during flare-ups, to soothe itching and reduce redness .

Synergies of vegetable and essential oils: effective recipes

Vegetable oils can be combined with essential oils to enhance their properties and create powerful synergies against eczema. However, essential oils are highly concentrated and should always be diluted and used with caution. Here are some examples of combinations:

• Intensive soothing treatment : Mix 15 ml of calophyllum oil with 5 ml of borage oil . Add 5 drops of fine lavender ( Lavandula angustifolia ) essential oil for its healing and soothing properties, and 3 drops of Roman chamomile ( Chamaemelum nobile ) essential oil for its anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic action.
• Apply this mixture to the eczema patches 2 to 3 times a day.

• Repairing balm for dry skin : Melt 30g of shea butter in a double boiler. Remove from heat and add 10ml of argan oil or calendula macerated oil , then 10 drops of rose geranium ( Pelargonium graveolens ) essential oil for its healing and regenerative properties, and 5 drops of palmarosa ( Cymbopogon martinii ) essential oil for its purifying and healing action. Pour into a jar and let cool.
• Apply a small amount to the irritated areas.

• Soothing and anti-itch oil : In a 30 ml bottle, mix 20 ml of black cumin oil and 10 ml of jojoba oil . Add 5 drops of lemon eucalyptus ( Eucalyptus citriodora ) essential oil for its anti-inflammatory and calming action on itching , and 3 drops of tea tree ( Melaleuca alternifolia ) essential oil to prevent infection.
• Apply locally.

These recipes are suggestions. The key is to observe your skin's reaction and adjust the proportions accordingly. For children, the dosages should be significantly reduced or essential oils avoided altogether, and consulting a healthcare professional is essential.

Precautions for use and additional advice

The use of vegetable oils and essential oils requires certain precautions to guarantee their safety and effectiveness, especially on sensitive and reactive skin such as that prone to eczema.

Skin test: an essential step

Before applying a new carrier oil or blend to a large area of ​​your skin, it is essential to perform a patch test. Apply a small amount of the product (always diluted if it contains essential oils) to the inside of your elbow or behind your ear. Observe the area for 24 to 48 hours. If no redness , itching , or irritation occurs, you can then use it on a larger area. This simple but crucial step helps prevent any allergic reaction or exacerbation of eczema symptoms.

Aggravating factors: identify and avoid them

Beyond topical application, managing eczema also involves identifying and avoiding triggers or aggravating factors. These can include allergens (pollen, dust mites, pet dander, certain foods like wheat), irritants (harsh soaps, perfumes, detergents, synthetic fabrics), or environmental factors (dry air, excessive heat, perspiration). Stress is also a major factor that can trigger or worsen eczema flare-ups. Keeping a flare-up diary can help you identify these triggers. Opt for gentle, fragrance-free hygiene products and cotton clothing.

Consulting a dermatologist: when is it necessary?

While plant oils and natural approaches can offer significant relief, they are not a substitute for medical advice. It is essential to consult a dermatologist if:

• Eczema worsens or does not improve despite the use of natural treatments.
• The itching is unbearable and disrupts your sleep.
• Signs of infection appear (heat, pus, fever).
• Eczema patches are very extensive or affect sensitive areas (face, eyes, folds).
• You have chronic conditions, are pregnant or breastfeeding, as some oils may be contraindicated.

Your dermatologist will be able to make an accurate diagnosis and guide you towards the most suitable treatment , whether conventional or in combination with natural solutions.

Vegetable oil	Key Properties	Usage Tips	Precautions
Borage oil	Anti-inflammatory, regenerative, rich in omega 6	Apply alone or in synergy to the affected areas	Oral route: caution is advised if taking anticoagulants or if liver disease is present.
Calophyllum inophyllum oil	Anti-inflammatory, healing, restorative	Pure on the lesions, or mixed with other vegetable oils	For external use only, skin test recommended.
Sweet almond oil	Soothing, nourishing, softening	Ideal for sensitive skin, base for essential oils	Risk of allergy (nuts), do a test.
Black seed oil	Anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial	Pure or diluted to soothe itching	Pregnant women (with medical advice), children > 3 years (diluted).
Calendula macerate	Soothing, healing, anti-inflammatory	Perfect for babies and very sensitive skin, pure or as a base	No known restrictions, very well tolerated.

FAQ

Do you have any other questions? Here are answers to frequently asked questions about using vegetable oils to relieve eczema.

What are the benefits of omega 3 and omega 6 for eczema?
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential fatty acids that play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the skin barrier and regulating inflammation . A balanced intake of these fatty acids, whether internally (through diet or supplements) or externally (through omega-rich vegetable oils ), helps reduce dryness and strengthen the skin's natural defenses, thus decreasing the frequency and intensity of eczema flare-ups.

Can coconut oil be used on scalp eczema?
Yes, coconut oil is often used to soothe scalp eczema thanks to its moisturizing and antifungal properties. Apply a small amount of virgin coconut oil to the dry or irritated scalp, massage gently, and leave it on for a few hours or overnight before shampooing with a mild shampoo. This helps reduce itching and flaking.

Can diet influence eczema?
Absolutely. As a registered dietitian, I've observed that diet plays a significant role. Certain foods can trigger or aggravate eczema. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids (found in oily fish and flax seeds), antioxidants, and low in processed foods and refined sugars can help reduce overall inflammation and improve your skin's condition. Keeping a food diary is advisable to identify any potential allergens or intolerances.

Expert advice from Marie

With my 15 years of experience at Pleine Forme, I encourage you to adopt a holistic approach to managing eczema. Beyond topical applications, internal balance is paramount. As a registered dietitian and nutritional supplement consultant, I often recommend incorporating high-quality omega-3 , omega-6, and especially omega-7 supplements to strengthen the skin barrier from within. Furthermore, stress management through relaxation techniques and ensuring good overall hydration are fundamental pillars. Remember that perseverance is key in the natural treatment of eczema.

Conclusion

Plant-based oils offer a promising avenue for the natural relief of eczema , providing hydration , soothing, and repair. By choosing the right oils and incorporating them wisely into your routine, you can achieve lasting skin comfort.

We invite you to share your experiences and tips in the comments below. Your story can help others find their way to calmer skin and a better quality of life.