If you have eczema, you probably moisturise regularly as part your daily regimen, right? But, how do you incorporate emu oil into your skincare routine? This is what we will cover.
About Emu Oil
Before we jump into the how-to part, let’s talk a bit about what emu oil actually is. Emu oil comes from the fat of the emu, a bird native to Australia. This oil has been used for centuries by Indigenous Australians for its healing properties.
Emu oil is rich in fatty acids, which are great for reducing inflammation and deeply moisturising the skin. Exactly what our eczema-ridden skin craves!
Step 1: Choosing the Right Emu Oil
Not all emu oils are created equal. Some people have commented that emu oils smell funky and gamey, but that can be solved with proper processing. Our emu oil is processed in a pharma-grade facility in Australia, making it pure and high quality. A good, pure emu oil should be very pale yellow and have a mild, almost non-existent smell. Remember, the clearer and lighter the oil, the more refined and effective it is.
Step 2: Patch Test
Even though emu oil is hypoallergenic, if you’ve got sensitive skin like mine, the golden rule is always do a patch test first. Apply a small amount of emu oil to a less sensitive area of your skin, like the inside of your forearm, and wait for 24 hours. Watch for any adverse reactions. If your skin throws a tantrum (i.e., redness, itching, or swelling), then you might want to reconsider an alternative treatment.
Step 3: Prep Your Skin
The best time to apply emu oil is after cleansing, but before applying lotions or creams. That’s because clean skin absorbs oil better. So, start with a gentle cleanser for sensitive skin to remove any dirt or irritants.
Note: If your skin is going through a bad flare-up, and is raw and wounded, you might need to use even gentler cleansers that are suitable for post-surgical wounds.
Then, pat your skin dry and don’t rub, because rubbing can irritate eczema.
Step 4: Application
Apply a few drops of emu oil to your fingertips or to the affected area and gently massage it in. You don’t need to use too much! The oil may also contain some residue, but this also goes away as you keep massaging it in.
Our emu oil bottles come with a convenient pump, so it’s easy to apply a drop at a time.
Step 5: Be Consistent
If you’re getting relief, then it’s time to include it in your skincare routine. Apply emu oil twice a day, or as needed, to keep your skin moisturised and happy. Over time, you should see a reduction in redness and inflammation. And when the inflammation goes down, so does the itching and discomfort.
Step 6: Monitor Your Skin’s Response
Keep an eye on how your skin responds. If you notice your skin improving, great! If not, don’t be discouraged. It’s all about finding what works for your unique skin.
Step 7: Pair with a Balanced Skincare Routine
While emu oil is fantastic, it doesn’t need to work alone. Use it as part of a balanced skincare routine that includes gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturisers.
Your diet and lifestyle play a part too. Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet. If you know the types of foods that trigger your itch, it’s best to avoid those.
Emu Oil Products for Eczema
If you’re looking for a pure and organic emu oil in Singapore, here are some great options:
- YNot-Natural Pure Emu Oil: The 60ml bottle is a great starting point. It’s 100% pure, which means it’s ideal for sensitive, eczema-prone skin.
- Emu Oil with Lavender: If you’re looking for something with a calming scent, this one’s for you. The added lavender helps soothe the skin and the mind.
- Emu Oil Moisturizing Cream: If you need something thicker that acts a protection barrier for your skin, this is a good option. It blends emu oil with other skin-loving ingredients to give you an extra moisture boost.
Remember, everyone’s skin is unique, so what works for me might not work for you. But if you’re curious about trying emu oil for your eczema, these products are a great place to start.
Dealing with eczema can feel like a never-ending battle, but discovering new ways to soothe your skin can be a real game-changer. Emu oil has gotten me through topical steroid withdrawal, and has become an indispensable part of my routine. I hope this guide helps you figure out if it could be a good fit for you too!