As an eczema sufferer, your skin is dry and flaky, but it's hard to find a moisturizer that eases your symptoms rather than making them worse. Many store-bought moisturizers contain fragrances and preservatives that may actually make your skin redder and dryer, rather than moist and tender. Thankfully, there's a simple eczema treatment solution to your woes. Start making your own moisturizer instead of buying it at the store! When you make your own moisturizer, you know exactly what's in it. That means no more mystery ingredients to cause your eczema flareups.

A great ingredient to use as the base for your homemade moisturizer is olive oil. You may already have this common salad dressing ingredient in your kitchen, and yes, you can use the same olive oil on your skin as you use for cooking. The better quality your olive oil, the softer your skin is likely to become. Extra virgin is better than pure olive oil.

Of course, you can use plain olive oil as a moisturizer. Just a few drops should be enough to moisturize your entire body. However, if you'd like something a little fancier, whip up one of these safe and natural homemade moisturizer recipes:

Olive and Citrus Moisturizer

This light and refreshing moisturizer is perfect for the summer. It contains only natural ingredients, so it won't irritate your eczema, but it's high in vitamin C from the orange peels and also has a lovely scent.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• The zest of 1 orange

Combine the ingredients in a small container, and let them rest for 2 days. Strain out the orange peel, and you have a simple moisturizer for your eczema-prone skin. Remember to use only a few drops.

Minty Fresh Moisturizer

Make this refreshing, yet wintry moisturizer when the weather turns cold. The mint scent will remind you of the holidays and may even give your skin a slight, soothing tingle.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 4 - 6 fresh mint leaves

Place the olive oil and mint leaves in a bowl, and use a spoon or muddler to muddle the leaves until they are well broken apart. After letting the mixture sit for 2 to 3 days, strain out the leaves. Use a couple of drops to moisturize your entire body. This moisturizer feels incredibly refreshing after a hot shower.

When you have eczema, the products on the shelves tend to fall into two categories: irritating or boring. These homemade moisturizers are neither. They'll soothe your skin, and they have the fun, fresh scents you crave in a moisturizer, too.