Buzz
For the 31.6 million Americans living with eczema, finding relief is a top priority. While magic potions may belong in fairy tales, dermatologists suggest effective solutions like calming lotions, creams, and ointments to combat symptoms such as intense itching, rashes, redness, and even sleep disturbances.
We consulted board-certified dermatologists to break down what eczema truly is and share their expert recommendations for the best at-home treatments.
Contents
Understanding Eczema: What You Need to Know
While atopic dermatitis is the most prevalent form of eczema, it’s important to note that other types exist. | Tanja Ivanova, Moment Collection, Getty ImagesEczema is a persistent skin condition that can be challenging to grasp, as its appearance and symptoms vary widely from person to person.
“Eczema is an umbrella term for a skin disorder characterized by redness, itching, dryness, and occasional flaking, which can occur anywhere on the body,” explains Dr. Marisa Garshick, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Cornell-New York Presbyterian Medical Center, in an interview with Mytour.
Garshick explains that atopic dermatitis is the most frequent type of eczema, a long-term inflammatory condition that causes recurring dry, itchy, and red patches across the body. It affects individuals of all ages, from infants to adults, and while it isn’t contagious, it can increase the risk of developing food allergies, asthma, and hay fever.
However, eczema encompasses various types. A qualified dermatologist can diagnose the specific form affecting you or a loved one, but here’s a general overview:
Form of eczema | When it starts | Areas | Symptoms |
|---|---|---|---|
Atopic dermatitis | Typically begins in infancy or childhood, but can develop at any age. | Can occur anywhere on the body, but usually impacts the face, back of the neck, arms, elbow creases, and/or the backs of the knees. | Dry and/or itchy skin; scaly patches that that may turn into a red rash. |
Contact dermatitis | Occurs as a reaction from something you’ve come into contact with; may result from something you were allergic to (i.e., latex), or from a chemical (i.e., bleach) that has damaged skin. Can take up to 48 hours to show symptoms and may occur at any age. | Hands, face, and the neck are common areas, but it depends on where an irritant came in contact with the skin. | Irritant contact dermatitis may cause blistering, skin swelling and/or cracking, ulcerations, and/or open sores. Allergic contact dermatitis may cause scaly, flaky skin, an itchy red rash, and oozing blisters. |
Seborrheic dermatitis | May impact infants shortly after birth. It can also occur in adolescents and adults throughout life, too. | Usually the scalp, but may effect oily areas of the hairline, eyebrows, nose, upper back, and/or groin area. | Redness and scaly and/or oily patches on the scalp and impacted areas; dandruff. |
Dyshidrotic eczema | Usually occurs in adults. Those who come into contact with heavy metals may be more prone to developing it. | Typically hands and/or feet. | Itchy, fluid-filled blisters may develop on the soles of feet or palms of the hands. |
Neurodermatitis | Repetitive scratching and/or rubbing on parts of the skin can lead to it; usually starts with an itch and worsens the more you scratch it. May occur as a result of atopic and/or contact dermatitis. | Arms, legs, back of the neck, backs of the hand, bottoms of the feet, scalp. | Severe, chronic, and intense itching; thick, raised patches may form, making impacted areas feel bark-like and/or leathery. |
Nummular eczema | Occurs after a skin injury, like a burn or insect bite. More prevalent in adults with severe atopic dermatitis, but may occur with some children. | Usually arms and/or legs. | Coin-shaped spots or lesions that may ooze clear fluid, become crusty, and/or feel inflamed. |
Stasis dermatitis | Typically occurs in older adults as a result of poor circulation, more likely to impact adults with varicose veins, congestive heart failure, and/or venous insufficiency. | Legs and ankles are most commonly impacted. | Itching, scaly skin; may cause ulcers and/or skin discoloration. |
Understanding the Causes of Eczema
Exposure to harsh soaps, detergents, or other irritants can trigger certain types of eczema. | PonyWang, E+ Collection, Getty ImagesThe term eczema originates from the Greek word ekzein, meaning “to boil over.” The factors causing the skin to “boil over” differ based on the type of eczema, but they typically involve a mix of genetic and environmental influences.
“Eczema is primarily caused by skin inflammation, but common triggers include skin dryness, stress, or exposure to irritants,” explains Dr. Garshick. These irritants often include strong soaps, detergents, chemicals (like acids or cleaning agents), rough-textured fabrics (such as wool), and extreme heat. Environmental factors like smoke, air pollution, and cold or dry weather can also contribute.
Dr. Karan Lal, a board-certified dermatologist in Arizona, notes that many individuals with eczema have a genetic mutation in filaggrin, a protein essential for supporting the epidermis and maintaining skin hydration. “This mutation allows irritants and allergens to penetrate the skin, leading to inflammation.”
Eczema can affect individuals of any age. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, about 25 percent of children experience atopic dermatitis at some point, and roughly 60 percent of eczema cases begin within the first year of life. “While most children with early-onset eczema outgrow it by age 5, around [one-fourth] continue to experience eczema or sensitive skin,” says Dr. Lal.
Adults can also develop eczema, even without a history of the condition in childhood. Approximately 1 in 4 adults experience adult-onset symptoms, and about 6 percent of eczema cases occur after age 60. Dr. Lal notes that while adult-onset eczema was once considered rare, it is becoming increasingly common in recent years.
Effective Strategies for Managing Eczema
Hydrating creams and lotions can restore moisture and maintain skin hydration. | Elena Popova, Moment Collection, Getty ImagesManaging eczema effectively requires maintaining skin moisture. This helps safeguard the skin’s outer layer, which is often compromised in eczema, leaving it vulnerable to bacteria, irritants, and allergens.
Since eczema often makes it difficult for the skin to retain moisture, selecting the right moisturizer is crucial. Ensure the product carries the National Eczema Association’s Seal of Approval and avoids ingredients on their “Ecz-clusion” list, such as bacitracin, benzocaine, or citrus extract. Additionally, steer clear of scented eczema treatments or those containing chemical UV absorbers, like certain sunscreens.
Dr. Garshick advises opting for moisturizers with ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier and hyaluronic acid to enhance moisture retention. Dr. Howard S. Goldberg, a board-certified dermatologist and medical director at the Massachusetts-based Cosmetic Dermatology & Aesthetic Laser Center, recommends fragrance-free moisturizers for sensitive skin and emphasizes applying them right after showering.
Dr. Goldberg highlights brands like CeraVe, Aquaphor, and Cetaphil as excellent options. However, consulting a dermatologist to identify your specific type of eczema is crucial before purchasing any product to ensure it addresses your condition effectively.
Top Dermatologist-Recommended Eczema Treatments
Best Overall Eczema Cream: Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream; Starting at $6
Top Pick: Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream | Vanicream / AmazonDr. Garshick highlights this moisturizing cream as an excellent choice for individuals with dry or sensitive skin. It is free from dyes, fragrances, parabens, and other irritants, minimizing the risk of skin reactions. The cream effectively soothes and hydrates the skin without leaving a greasy feel. Additionally, it’s non-comedogenic, making it suitable for both facial and body use without clogging pores.
Best Premium Option: La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+ Intense Repair Body Lotion; Starting at $29
Dr. Lal highly recommends this deeply hydrating lotion, noting its inclusion of shea butter and thermal spring water to strengthen the skin barrier. Dr. Garshick also praises this fragrance-free formula, which is packed with moisturizing ingredients like glycerin, a humectant that attracts moisture. Safe for both face and body, this non-comedogenic lotion is ideal for sensitive skin.
Best Eczema Cream for Itch Relief: Aveeno Eczema Therapy Daily Moisturizing Cream With Colloidal Oat & Ceramide; Starting at $16
Best oatmeal-based cream: Aveeno Eczema Therapy Daily Moisturizing Cream With Colloidal Oat & Ceramide | Aveeno / AmazonDealing with eczema-related itchiness? Dr. Garshick suggests this soothing cream, which features colloidal oatmeal, an emollient designed to soften and calm the skin. The colloidal oatmeal forms a protective layer, shielding the skin from external irritants while allowing it to rehydrate, thereby minimizing the chances of itchy flare-ups.
Best Budget-Friendly Option: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream; $16
Top drugstore choice: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream | CeraVe / AmazonThis widely available cream hydrates the skin and repairs its natural barrier. Enriched with hyaluronic acid and three essential ceramides, it effectively combats dryness without a greasy feel. Fragrance-free and long-lasting, it features patented MVE delivery technology, which releases moisturizing ingredients over 24 hours, keeping skin soft and smooth all day. Dr. Garshick notes its suitability for individuals with dry skin.
Best Eczema Ointment: Vaseline Original Unscented Healing Petroleum Jelly; Starting at $5
Dr. Garshick endorses this classic drugstore staple, which locks in moisture and creates a protective barrier against external irritants. She recommends applying it throughout the day and before bedtime for optimal results.
Best Eczema Lotion for Facial Use: Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion for Dry to Normal Skin; $15
Dr. Garshick recommends this lightweight lotion for facial application due to its inclusion of niacinamide, panthenol, and glycerin, which deliver 48-hour hydration. Additionally, avocado oil helps soothe and calm sensitive, irritated skin.
Best Eczema Cream for Quick Relief: Eucerin Eczema Repair Cream; $13
This powerful cream combines colloidal oatmeal and ceramides with licochalcone, which activates anti-inflammatory and detoxifying enzymes to reduce redness. Dr. Garshick highlights its effectiveness for sudden flare-ups, noting its gentle, non-greasy, and fragrance-free formula.
Best Eczema Cream for Children: CeraVe Baby Moisturizing Cream; $9
Formulated by dermatologists, this rich cream is packed with ceramides to reinforce the skin barrier. Free from fragrances and parabens, Dr. Garshick describes it as an “excellent choice for children’s delicate skin.”
Top Eczema Treatment for Infants: Aquaphor Baby; $12
Best for infants: Aquaphor Baby | Aquaphor / AmazonIdeal for soothing chafed skin or diaper rash, this fragrance- and preservative-free ointment is perfect for a baby’s delicate skin. With 41 percent petrolatum, it acts as a protective barrier, shielding against irritation and promoting healing. Dr. Garshick notes that it not only hydrates dry skin but also effectively treats minor cuts and scrapes.
