Eczema, rosacea and psoriasis are chronic skin conditions characterized by inflammation, irritation, and dryness. To soothe and heal these conditions, certain botanical ingredients are especially beneficial due to their anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, and skin-repairing properties. Here are some of the best ingredients for managing eczema, rosacea and psoriasis:
1. Aloe Vera
Benefits: Aloe vera is highly soothing, hydrating, and anti-inflammatory, making it excellent for calming irritated and inflamed skin often associated with eczema and psoriasis.
Best in: Moisturizers, lotions, and calming gels.
Research-backed citation: Surjushe et al., Indian J Dermatol (2008)
2. Chamomile
Benefits: Chamomile is a powerful anti-inflammatory and skin-calming herb that reduces redness, irritation, and itching. It’s great for calming flare-ups and soothing dry, itchy patches.
Best in: Calming creams, moisturizers, and masks.
Research-backed citation: Srivastava et al., Mol Med Rep (2010)
3. Shea Butter
Benefits: Shea butter is a rich emollient that provides deep hydration, locking in moisture and creating a protective barrier for damaged, dry skin.
Best in: Moisturizers, body butters, and balms for dry, sensitive skin.
Research-backed citation: Bom et al., J Oleo Sci (2017)
4. Coconut Oil
Benefits: Coconut oil is moisturizing and has anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe eczema and psoriasis. It also has antimicrobial qualities to prevent infections in broken skin.
Best in: Moisturizers, ointments, and facial oils for dry, sensitive skin.
Research-backed citation: Verallo-Rowell et al., Dermatitis (2008)
5. Oat
Benefits: Oatmeal is incredibly soothing for irritated skin, reducing itching and inflammation. It also helps restore the skin barrier and locks in moisture.
Best in: Cleansers, masks, and bath treatments for soothing irritation.
Research-backed citation: Reynertson et al., J Drugs Dermatol (2015)
6. Calendula
Benefits: Calendula has anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and wound-healing properties. It’s particularly good for reducing redness, calming irritation, and promoting healing in sensitive skin.
Best in: Creams, ointments, and lotions for sensitive, inflamed skin.
Research-backed citation: Parente et al., Planta Med (2009)
7. Borage Seed Oil
Benefits: Borage seed oil is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which is effective in treating dry, inflamed skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. It helps repair the skin barrier and reduce itching and irritation.
Best in: Moisturizers, serums, and oils for dry, flaky skin.
Research-backed citation: Hajhashemi et al., Iran J Pharm Res (2009)
8. Hempseed Oil
Benefits: Hempseed oil is highly moisturizing and has anti-inflammatory properties. It balances the skin’s oil production while deeply hydrating and healing damaged skin.
Best in: Facial oils, moisturizers, and serums.
Research-backed citation: Callaway, Euphytica (2004)
9. Lavender
Benefits: Lavender is calming and anti-inflammatory, which helps to soothe irritated, inflamed skin. It also promotes skin healing and reduces itching.
Best in: Balms, oils, and creams for calming sensitive skin.
Research-backed citation: Cavanagh & Wilkinson, Phytother Res (2002)
10. Hyaluronic Acid
Benefits: Hyaluronic acid helps retain moisture in the skin, which is vital for keeping skin hydrated and preventing flare-ups of eczema and psoriasis.
Best in: Serums, moisturizers, and hydrating masks.
Research-backed citation: Papakonstantinou et al., Dermatoendocrinol (2012)
11. Evening Primrose Oil
Benefits: Evening primrose oil is rich in omega fatty acids, which help soothe inflammation, repair the skin barrier, and prevent moisture loss.
Best in: Facial oils, serums, and rich creams.
Research-backed citation: Bamford et al., BMJ (2000)
12. Gotu Kola
Benefits: Gotu kola helps boost skin repair and collagen production, promoting healing and reducing scarring in damaged, inflamed skin.
Best in: Serums, moisturizers, and creams for healing and soothing irritated skin.
Research-backed citation: Hashim et al., Molecules (2011)
Top Product Recommendations for Eczema and Psoriasis:
- Cleanser: Look for oat-based cleansers or those with aloe to cleanse without stripping moisture from the skin.
- Moisturizer: Opt for rich creams or ointments with shea butter, borage seed oil, or coconut oil to deeply hydrate and create a protective barrier on the skin.
- Serum/Oil: Use facial oils or serums containing hempseed oil, borage oil, or evening primrose oil to hydrate, reduce inflammation, and support skin healing.
- Soothing Treatments: Chamomile or calendula-infused masks and creams for calming flare-ups and reducing redness and irritation.
Using products with these nourishing and healing ingredients will help manage symptoms, soothe inflamed skin, and support long-term healing in those dealing with eczema, rosacea and psoriasis.