This remedy might seem extremely weird, but if it’s medically approved, then… why not? Believe me, when I first heard the term “bleach bath,” a slew of terrifying ideas flashed in my mind. It’s like soaking in poison, dissolving away, and literally bleaching my skin into a new hue.
A common household cleaning agent, bleach, is well known for its sterilizing properties when it comes to cleaning and disinfecting. Most people use bleach for clothing, as it has the capacity to make garments whiter and cleaner. But would you believe it if I told you that bleach can be used as a bath ingredient?
If you’re hearing this for the very first time – yes, were assure you, there is such a thing as a ‘bleach bath’. A bleach bath is unusual in that it destroys bacteria while also reducing inflammation and moisturizing your skin. While it may sound overwhelming, bleach baths are commonly used to treat skin conditions such as eczema. Eczema sufferers, particularly those with atopic dermatitis, have extremely dry skin. This is due to the disease’s effect on the skin’s barrier. Allergies, heredity, climate, stress, and other factors can cause eczema symptoms.
So, to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation, bleach baths are often taken. This remedy is commonly used for babies. In case you’re still horrified by the concept, think of the average swimming pool. Swimming pools contain chlorine and this is pretty much the same thing!
@drsheilagh #stitch with @jessicaanne97 #eczema #bleachbath #atopic #dermatologist #mom ♬ original sound – Dr. Sheilagh
So, how do you go about preparing for a bleach bath?
First and foremost, check with your doctor if this would be helpful for your skin. When using a bleach bath to cure your eczema, keep in mind that the bath will be largely water, with a very small dose of bleach. You’ll need only two items for this bath: water and some good old bleach!
- Fill the tub or bucket with water to the desired level.
- Only use 1/2 cup of bleach for an effective bleach bath. When the water is lukewarm, only then should you pour in the bleach.
- Soak in the bath for only 10 minutes
- Once done, rinse the skin with warm water and use a white towel to dry (coloured towels might incur bleach stains)
During the bleach bath, make sure not to dunk your head in the water; and keep the water away from your eyes. Never add other chemical substances to this bath, such as shampoo or soap. Also, be sure to use a regular household bleach, not the concentrated formula or the ones with extracts.
Now, you might be wondering if there are any side effects. After all, it is a cleaning agent!
For starters, bleach or chlorine vapour may irritate the skin or respiratory system of persons who are allergic to bleach or have allergic asthma. Additionally, bleach baths can be uncomfortable for persons with excessively dry skin because it can cause a stinging or burning sensation. While it may be a good remedy with which to treat your skin, anyone considering incorporating bleach baths into their eczema skin care routines, whether for themselves or their children, should consult a doctor or healthcare expert first.
More on skincare? Read this:
https://lipstiq.com/diy/172133/get-your-hands-on-these-5-genius-tips-for-a-naturally-glowing-skin/
