If you have very sensitive and reactive skin when it comes to eczema reach for this super soothing cream that can relieve itching, redness, and cracks. It contains honey, aloe vera, almond oil, olive oil, and beeswax to deeply nourish and hydrate dry, rough skin. It also contains colloidal oatmeal to help mitigate itching and redness, and is completely fragrance-free, paraben-free, and sulfate-free. A fair warning that this one needs to be mixed before application, as the formula tends to separate, but it’s well worth it if you need something extra gentle.
Glamour’s Kilkeary says:
“This eczema cream is probably one of the thickest and occlusive formulas I’ve ever tried. It needs to be mixed well before application, and once combined, you can easily slather it all over your arms and legs for a really moisturizing experience. It helps quell itching, too, and actually feels cooling upon application. The only thing I didn’t love about this cream is that it’s pretty greasy—so a fair warning to use just a little, even on large affected areas.”
- Fragrance-free: Yes
- Key ingredients: Aloe vera, honey, almond oil, colloidal oatmeal
- Size: 4 fl. oz.
Frequently asked questions
What do dermatologists recommend for eczema?
“Dermatologists focus on barrier repair and itch control when it comes to eczema-prone skin and atopic dermatitis,” says Ariel Ostad, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. He goes on to explain that a weakened skin barrier is central to eczema, so it’s important to stick to products that won’t cause flare-ups, e.g., fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizers, and thicker creams with anti-inflammatory ingredients.
What clears up eczema quickly?
Eczema doesn’t necessarily have a one-size-fits-all quick fix, says Dr. Garshick, but flares often improve quickly when inflammation is targeted. She recommends a short course of a prescription topical medication, such as a topical corticosteroid, along with consistent, liberal moisturizing. “Applying medication or hydrocortisone to active areas and sealing it in with a moisturizer can help speed healing. Depending on the severity, oral medications or biologic injections may also be considered,” she says.
Eczema is often triggered by dry air, harsh soaps, detergents, fragrances, stress, and sweating. Eczema can also worsen with environmental allergens, and for some people, foods or even exposure to excess sunlight can contribute. “Because triggers vary from person to person, keeping track of what triggers flare-ups can be helpful,” says Dr. Garshick. It’s also important to be careful when using lanolin, an ingredient derived from wool that’s sometimes found in moisturizers, as it can trigger an allergy.
Should you moisturize eczema or let it dry out?
Both dermatologists say that you should always moisturize eczema. “Apply moisturizer multiple times a day, especially after bathing and before bedtime, to help restore the skin barrier and reduce itch,” says Dr. Ostad.
What should you not put on eczema?
Dr. Garshick says to avoid products with heavy fragrance, essential oils, harsh exfoliants, and alcohol-based products unless specifically directed because these can further aggravate eczema. It’s also important to avoid exfoliating acids or retinoids during a flare-up. “If a product stings, burns, or dries your skin further, discontinue it– eczema symptoms often indicate irritation,” says Dr. Ostad.
We tested eczema creams by evaluating dermatologist-approved ingredients, textures, and effectiveness in soothing flare-ups from the skin condition. We selected ones contained hydrating ceramides, soothing colloidal oatmeal, and other humectants and emollients (like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe, and shea butter) that help the skin retain moisture. The ones that made this list were also non-greasy but still left a veil of moisture that comforted red, flaking skin. Every eczema cream did a great job of calming our flared-up areas, leaving our skin clearer and softer.
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