If you have eczema, you know that the cooling temps can mean major flare-ups for your skin. Eczema (a.k.a. atopic dermatitis) is a chronic skin condition that causes a dry, scaly, itchy rash—and the dry air of winter can exacerbate your symptoms. While there is currently no cure for eczema, diligent use of balms, creams and even shampoos can help soothe your skin and ease your eczema symptoms. To learn more about how to choose the right skin care product for you---as well as how to take care of eczema-prone skin---we talked to the experts at First Aid Beauty.
How to Choose an Eczema Cream or Lotion
The issue most products pose for eczema sufferers is that they have the potential to further irritate already fragile skin. Choosing products specifically formulated to treat the symptoms of eczema and that are gentle and fragrance-free is extremely important. The best moisturizers for eczema help to seal moisture in the skin and contain colloidal oatmeal, an FDA-designated ingredient for treating the discomfort associated with eczema. Absolutely avoid ingredients such as alcohol and perfume that can trigger flare-ups. The experts at First Aid Beauty add, "Our hero product, Ultra Repair Cream, is a head-to-toe moisturizer that delivers exceptional hydration while helping provide immediate relief and long-lasting protection for dry, distressed skin, even eczema."
Ingredients to Look for and Avoid
Look for products with ingredients like colloidal oatmeal, shea butter, hyaluronic acid and ceramides—these moisturizing ingredients repair and protect the skin and relieve itching and irritation. Colloidal oatmeal specifically is an FDA-designated skin protectant that relieves itching and minor irritation caused by eczema, rashes and other skin conditions. Avoid fragrances, harsh ingredients and alcohol-based products as they can trigger flare-ups and dry out skin.
Tips on How to Take Care of Eczema-Prone Skin
- Avoid long hot showers. Hot water strips moisture from the skin faster than warm or cool water. Keep showers short, 10 minutes or less and use warm water instead.
- Apply cream or lotion while skin is damp. Bathing allows water to enter the skin so putting on moisturizer following the shower while skin is damp seals in moisture.
- Be mindful of clothing/materials that can irritate skin. Dress in soft, breathable clothing and avoid itchy fabrics like wool that can further irritate eczema.
The Best Creams and Lotions for Eczema
Now that you know what to look for in an eczema treatment, choose from our bestselling eczema products below, from creams to balms. We wish you nothing but happy, hydrated skin ahead!
1. First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream (6 oz.)
2. Avene XeraCalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Cream (6.76 fl. oz.)
5. EltaMD Moisturizer (3.8 oz.)
In addition to providing superior sun protection, EltaMD also delivers long-lasting moisture to inflamed and flaky skin. Free of fragrances, parabens and preservatives, this waterless moisturizer works to bring relief to eczema, sunburn and even post-procedure skin.
This Dermstore customer’s review says it all: “We've tried numerous moisturizers for my son who has severe eczema, and this [is] hands-down the best. Easy to spread and skin absorbs it well. Stays moisturized most of [the] day."
6. Bioderma Atoderm Intensive Balm (16.7 oz.)
