Top 10 Eczema Creams Dermatologists Swear By

Eczema is a common inflammatory skin condition and affects millions of people worldwide. It causes itchy, dry skin and significant discomfort. Skin can appear flaky and red, raising cosmetic concerns. 

These chronic symptoms lead many to seek relief, including topical treatment options. This guide dives deep into the world of eczema creams to help you make an informed decision and find relief. 

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Understanding Eczema and Its Challenges

Eczema is a type of chronic dermatitis, an inflammatory skin condition caused by multiple factors. Genetic and environmental influences result in a compromised skin barrier. Studies suggest that people with eczema may have an increased likelihood of having asthma and allergy symptoms (allergic rhinoconjunctivitis). Symptoms of eczema include:

• Itchy skin
• Flaking skin
• Swelling
• Skin color changes 
• Bumps
• Dry skin

There are also multiple types of eczema, including:

• Atopic dermatitis (most common)
• Contact dermatitis
• Dyshidrotic eczema
• Nummular eczema
• Seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff)
• Stasis dermatitis
• Neurodermatitis

The Role of Eczema Creams

Eczema treatment has four major interventions:

1. Trigger avoidance
2. Daily skincare
3. Inflammation reduction therapy
4. Complementary treatments

Topical creams are part of the daily skincare and inflammation-reducing aspects of treatment. Eczema creams hydrate and protect the skin while reducing irritation. Over-the-counter creams are moisturizers and skin protectants, while prescription creams contain active ingredients that target inflammation. 

A key element of preventing skin irritation is maintaining the skin barrier, a protection mechanism that prevents water loss via lipids in the outer layer of the epidermis. Creams containing humectants, occlusives, and emollients use different mechanisms to maintain this vital barrier.  

Consult a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your eczema.

Key Ingredients in Eczema Creams

Ingredients matter when it comes to calming skin with eczema; it is important to look for a cream with hydrating ingredients and minimal irritants. 

Hydrating Ingredients

Emollients soften the skin. These ingredients include:

• Lipids (propylene glycol)
• Castor oil
• Glyceryl stearate
• Ceramides

Humectants draw water into the skin and prevent it from evaporating; these hydrating ingredients include:

• Glycerine
• Allantoin
• Hyaluronic acid

Occlusives create a barrier on the skin, provide additional protection, and prevent dehydration. Occlusive ingredients include:

• Mineral oil
• Petrolatum
• Squalene
• Lanolin acid
• Sterols (cholesterol)

Reducing Inflammation 

Ingredients that may help to calm inflammation, reduce redness, irritation, and itching include colloidal oatmeal, aloe vera, and niacinamide. Sometimes, a dermatologist will also recommend a corticosteroid cream to reduce inflammation. 

What to Avoid

Some ingredients in skincare can cause eczema flare-ups. Avoid fragrances, essential oils, and alcohols because these can further irritate the skin. Choose products that say “fragrance-free” rather than “unscented”, because unscented products may still have fragrance. 

Beef tallow is quickly gaining popularity as a skincare ingredient. While some consider beef tallow a skincare ingredient, there is limited evidence of its efficacy for eczema. Always consult a healthcare provider before integrating this product into your skincare routine. 

Eczema Cream Options

The creams frequently used to hydrate skin with eczema include:

• Aquaphor (occlusive)
• Eucerin 
• Cetaphil
• CeraVe
• Vanicream
• Aveeno eczema therapy
• Topical corticosteroids

Specialty Creams for Kids and Babies

Many of the brands mentioned above have specialty formulations for children. The basic ingredients are similar, so ask your healthcare provider if your child needs a specific formulation. Children and babies generally need thick creams and ointments rather than lotions or oils. 

The products mentioned are commonly used but may not be suitable for everyone. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.

How to Choose the Right Eczema Cream

When choosing a cream for eczema, consider severity and eczema location. 

• More severe cases of eczema require more hydration from a cream or ointment, especially in a dry, cold climate. 
• Mild eczema, especially on the face of an adult, may be managed with a lotion. 

The best eczema cream depends on individual needs and should be selected in consultation with a dermatologist.

Tips for Patch Testing

In some cases, ingredients can be patch-tested by a medical provider to ensure they do not cause irritation or an allergic reaction. Patch testing involves placing an ingredient or substance on the skin for several days and monitoring the reaction.  

When to Consult a Dermatologist

Consult a dermatologist if eczema symptoms are worsening or if signs of infection develop. Signs of infection may include blisters with pus, sores, or crusting on the skin. 

Application Techniques and Best Practices

The method for applying creams matters when treating eczema. Steps for optimizing moisture include:

1. Bathe or shower and cleanse your skin with a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser. Daily bathing is often recommended for babies to keep the skin hydrated. Use warm water; very hot water can strip the skin of moisture. 
2. Dry the skin gently (pat dry, rather than vigorously rubbing your towel on the skin), and leave it slightly damp. 
3. If your healthcare provider has recommended a medicated cream, apply it.
4. Liberally apply moisturizer all over the face and body.
5. Follow up with a moisturizer with an emollient (e.g., Aquaphor). This step is usually best used at night before bed. 
6. Avoid bathing or showering without applying moisturizer afterward. This can accelerate skin drying via evaporation. 

Complementary Care Tips

Other steps can improve eczema symptoms and reduce flares. These steps may include:

• Avoid triggers, including sweat, saliva, tobacco smoke, dry air, pet dander, and pollen.
• Use fragrance-free laundry detergent and cleansers.
• Use a humidifier at night while sleeping in dry air. 
• Wear loose-fitting clothing made of cotton.
• Wash new clothes and sheets before using them.
• Use 100% cotton bedding and towels.

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Key Takeaways

• Eczema is a chronic skin condition causing itching, dryness, and irritation, with subtypes like atopic and seborrheic dermatitis.
• Eczema creams hydrate, protect the skin barrier and calm the skin as part of daily treatment.
• Look for hydrating ingredients like ceramides and glycerin, as well as inflammatory-reducing components like aloe vera, and avoid irritants like fragrances and alcohol.
• Recommended brands include Aquaphor, CeraVe, Eucerin, Cetaphil, Vanicream, and Aveeno, with options for children and babies.
• Thick creams or ointments work best for severe eczema or dry climates, while lotions suit mild cases or facial eczema.
• Apply creams after bathing with warm water, starting with medicated cream (if needed), then moisturizer and emollient.
• Complementary care includes avoiding triggers, using fragrance-free detergents, wearing cotton clothing, and adding a humidifier at night.
• Consult a dermatologist about the best eczema care for your specific needs.