Skin conditions are uncomfortable for numerous reasons. They can make you self-conscious about your appearance and they can be irritating or seemingly uncontrollable. Both eczema and psoriasis are two common skin conditions that result in flaky, itchy, inflamed skin. Constant itching can make you feel embarrassed and leave you feeling helpless. That’s where this homemade neem balm comes into play.
What Is Neem Oil?
People in the natural beauty world rave about the benefits of neem oil. Neem oil is derived from the neem tree, which his native to India, and the oil contains powerful antioxidant, antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Commonly used in Ayurvedic remedies, neem oil is now used in cosmetic products, including body lotions, hair products, and skin creams.
Helps Prevent Acne
Ayurveda used neem oil to help clear up the skin because of the inherent antibacterial properties. If your acne is caused by bacterial build-up, neem oil can help by killing the bacteria that clog pores and create blemishes. A 2013 in vitro study found that neem oil could be a prolonged treatment for acne. Neem oil also works to moisturize the skin, so it prevents dead skin flakes from clogging the pores.
It May Reduce Signs Of Aging
Neem oil contains powerful antioxidants and fatty acids, which help slow the early signs of aging. Oleic and linoleic acid, both of which are present in neem oil, help to penetrate the skin and encourage cell health. This helps to keep the skin looking young and supple. When applied to the skin, neem oil helps create a moisturizing barrier that prevents skin from losing moisture, which helps prevent wrinkles and dryness.
It Soothes Itching And Irritation
Unfortunately, neem oil is not a cure for eczema or psoriasis, but it can help manage symptoms and the severity of outbreaks. Dermatologists typically recommend emollients for eczema because they fill gaps or cracks in the skin, preventing loss of moisture. Neem is rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, which penetrate the outer layers of the skin, filling in those gaps and cracks. The antiseptic properties also help keep bacteria out, reducing irritation or severity of outbreaks.
Note: Before using this all over your skin (especially around the face or scalp), do a patch test on your arm. If you don’t see a reaction after 24 hours, which includes redness or swelling, you should be safe to use it on other areas of the body. Neem is incredibly potent so use lightly.
DIY Neem Balm For Eczema
Ingredients:
- 40 grams Shea butter
- 30 grams cocoa butter
- 20 grams castor oil
- 30 grams sweet almond oil
- 10 grams neem oil
- ¼ teaspoon vitamin E oil
Instructions:
- Add the Shea butter, cocoa butter, castor oil, and sweet almond oil to the top of a double boiler. Alternatively, you can combine them in a heat-safe glass bowl/jar that sits in a saucepan with an inch of water over medium-low heat.
- Once the oils melt, stir well and remove from heat. Pour the oils into a heat-safe bowl/jar and place it in the freezer for five minutes, or until oils thicken.
- Remove the bowl from the freezer and whisk in the neem oil and vitamin E oil.
- Spoon the mixture into a container with a lid and let it settle for a couple hours before using it. Use once or twice a day on the affected area(s), but don’t forget to patch test first.
