Eczema can affect any part of the body, but most often the hands, inside of the elbows, backs of the knees and the face and scalp.
With cold and damp weather creeping in as the winter months approach, skin conditions such as eczema can be triggered, making sufferers desperate for something to soothe their rash.
While your GP can offer you topical creams and antihistamines to stop itching, these treatments don’t always work for everyone.
Some experts recommend more natural remedies – one being sunflower oil.
National Eczema Association says sunflower oil boosts the skin’s barrier function, helping it to retain moisture.
It adds: “It also has anti-inflammatory properties.
“Apply sunflower oil to adult skin twice a day, with one of those times being shortly after bathing while skin is still wet.
“Avoid using sunflower oil, if you have a known allergy to sunflower seeds.”
The eczema expert says the first steps to considering any treatment is to understand what triggers your eczema.
It advises: “Learning about the irritants in your everyday surroundings can help you better manage the condition whether you use traditional medications, alternative therapies or both.”
High street health store Holland and Barrett recommends three supplements to soothe symptoms of eczema.
Turmeric
Research has found that turmeric, an Ayurvedic (Indian medicine with historic roots) can lessen eczema symptoms.
It explains: “Several studies have shown a significant improvement in the severity of the effects of skin disease in people with turmeric.
“One 2015 study from Pakistan found that topical formulations containing turmeric eased itchiness, swelling and redness in eczema patients.
“Turmeric can be taken in powder, capsule or tablet forms and even in tea, and of course you can use turmeric as a delicious spice for your food.
“Daily doses of three to four grams have been used in eczema research studies, with positive results.”
Omega-3
People with eczema often have significantly lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids, according to the heath store.
It adds: “Increasing omega-3 in the diet can help reduce inflammation in the body and significantly improve the symptoms of itchy skin.”
Vitamin E
As well as helping protect cells against free radicals, the vitamin contribute to a healthy immune system.
It says: “In a study of schoolchildren, those with the highest level of vitamin E-related compounds in their blood experienced 67 per cent less risk of eczema and asthma than children with the lowest levels.”