Zinc Eczema Treatment

The medical term for eczema is atopic dermatitis. It is characterized by itchy red patches on the skin. You can use zinc in various forms to treat eczema without a doctor's prescription. Zinc is widely available at vitamin and drug stores in both topical and oral formulations. Using zinc to treat eczema can be beneficial for individuals who are reluctant to take prescription medications or who have experienced negative side effects from conventional medical treatments.

Appearance

While individuals of any age can experience eczema, this skin condition most often appears in children. It usually first makes an appearance before the age of 5.

Topical Zinc

Topical zinc creams can be used in conjunction with oral prescription medications. They can provide relief by reducing redness and irritation and providing a protective barrier. Treating eczema with topical zinc applications is beneficial, particularly for children, because there is virtually no risk of side effects. In fact, many diaper creams contain zinc oxide, and creams that are safe for babies are usually safe for young children as well. Use zinc creams at night because they can get messy--they can be sticky and may cause your clothing to stick to your skin.

Zinc in Your Diet

Adding zinc-rich foods to the diet, including beef, turkey, salmon and spinach, can ensure that you're getting sufficient levels of this mineral. Consider zinc supplements if it's difficult for you to consume enough zinc-rich foods. However, focus on dietary sources of zinc first. With a little planning, it's easy to add zinc-containing foods to the diet, especially since many breads and cereals are fortified with zinc. According to the National Institutes of Health, the recommended daily allowance of zinc is 11 mg for males and 8 mg for females. The RDA of zinc for children varies by age, with pre-teens needing 8 mg and younger children requiring less.

Zinc and Hair Care

Shampoos that treat dandruff often contain zinc. They can be used to treat eczema on the scalp as well as eczema on the extremities. However, avoid using these shampoos on the face. Use products specifically formulated for babies on children under 2 years of age. Follow the instructions on the product label to determine how frequently you should use the shampoo, but the Mayo Clinic says you can use special shampoos daily until your condition improves.

Considerations

Using zinc as an eczema treatment might be less effective in cases where a large area of the skin is affected. Less severe cases of eczema sometimes can be treated solely with topical zinc. Give sufficient time before determining whether or not zinc creams are helping to alleviate your eczema. Natural treatments, including zinc cream, can sometimes take a month or more before you see results. According to the Mayo Clinic, natural treatments aren't as potent as prescription steroid medications.

Oral Zinc Supplementation

Adults can take zinc supplements orally. Follow package recommendations to determine the proper dose. Children should avoid taking lone zinc supplements, but can safely take a zinc-containing multivitamin that is specifically formulated for children.

Warning

Confirm an eczema diagnosis before self-treating with zinc. Eczema and psoriasis can look very similar and can be difficult to differentiate. See a physician and only attempt over-the-counter treatments if you've been given a diagnosis of eczema.