Best Over The Counter Products For Eczema

Lotions For Eczema We Also Tested

• Vaseline All Over Balm: While hydrating, this balm is also very greasy and not as effective at treating damaged skin or improving rough skin texture.
• Cetaphil Restoraderm Soothing Moisturizer:This rich and soothing lotion absorbs quickly but isn’t strong enough for severe eczema.
• CeraVe Hydrocortisone Cream: Another creamy lotion with the added benefit of corticosteroids, CeraVe Hydrocortisone Cream requires several applications in a short period to combat itchiness and inflammation.

How Severe Eczema Is Treated

• Frequently Asked Questions

Finding the right treatment for the relief of symptoms and the prevention of flare-ups when you have severe eczema is crucial. The skin can become red and swollen, and the itch can be extreme and disruptive. In some cases, eczema can affect over 40% of the body’s surface area.

This article will discuss how you can manage severe eczema with home remedies, over-the-counter treatments, prescription medication, and phototherapy.

Olga Ostapenko / Getty Images

Eczema treatment for any severity starts with trigger management and a good skin care routine.

Reserveage Nutrition Hydrating Hand & Foot Cream $4318

According to Dr. Libby, ReserveAges hand cream is a rich, luxurious cream that absorbs in quickly to moisturize skin with humectants like glycerin and repair the skin barrier with copper-encapsulated peptide technology. Not to mention, its a collagen booster and comes in the loveliest pink packaging weve seen.

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Best For Itch Relief: Sarna Steroid

When itchiness strikes, Dr. Markowitz recommends reaching for this over-the-counter topical treatment, which soothes distressed skin using cooling camphor and menthol. It also locks in moisture to repair the skin and prevent future dryness and itchiness. The lotion is also available in a sensitive skin formula, which stops irritation with itch-relieving pramoxine hydrochloride.

âSarna is a skin and sanity saver,â. âI suffer from stress-induced eczema. I have a steroid cream that I can use up to twice a day, but Sarna makes a huge difference in how quickly my skin heals up, because it offers immediate relief and I can use it as much as I need throughout the day.â

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Best With Hydrocortisone: Sarna Eczema Relief Whipped Foam

Courtesy of Amazon

• Absorbs fast and isnt greasy

• Foaming texture

• Shouldnt be used daily/continuously

The truth of the matter is, when a really bad eczema flare strikes, a plain old lotion isnt going to do much. You need a little more of a heavy-hitting active ingredient, such as hydrocortisone. The OTC steroid is often recommended by dermatologists to help quell redness, inflammation, and itchall symptoms of an eczema flare. Here, it comes in a maximum-strength 1% concentration, though in a lightweight and fast-absorbing foam thats much more enjoyable to use than other, goopy hydrocortisone creams.

Active Ingredients: Hydrocortisone | Size: 1.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Unknown | No

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Why Is It So Important To Moisturize After A Bath Or Shower

Water is an effective way to put moisture back into the skin, but only if you use lukewarm water, avoid scrubbing and apply a moisturizer within three minutes after bathing or showering. This last step very important if you dont moisturize immediately afterward, the moisture your skin needs will evaporate and may cause a rebound effect making the skin even more dry.

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Best Eczema On Eyelid Treatment Options

The skin on the eyelids is verythin with lots of blood vessels, making it prone to sensitivity and allergic reactions. Although there can be many causes, eczema on eyelid treatment doesnt have to be difficult as youll see below. Symptoms of eyelid eczema may occur in one or both eyes, affectjust the eyelids or also the surrounding area, and may be chronic or onlyhappen occasionally. These symptoms include:

• Scaly,irritated skin

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Are There Medical Treatments And Medications For Eczema

Once a health care professional is sure someone has atopic dermatitis, the mainstays of therapy are anti-inflammatory medications and relief from the itching.

Prescription-strength steroid cream and antihistamine medications are the usual treatments.

If a health care professional determines that someone has a secondary bacterial infection complicating their rash, an oral antibiotic may be prescribed.

For severe cases not responding to high-potency steroid cream, alternate treatments may be tried. These include coal tar, ultraviolet light exposure, and systemic anti-inflammatory agents.

Allergy shots usually do not work in eczema.

A variety of diets have been proposed for eczema relief. These may be structured on the results of allergy testing or may be chosen for their content of foods that tend not to provoke allergic responses. Not everyone put on restrictive eczema diets improves, and many patients with severe eczema show no testing evidence of food allergies. For that reason, a change in diet, if desired, should be considered as an additional step in treatment rather than a primary one, and if patients notice they itch more when eating any identified food or drink, it would be best if they avoid it.

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Lotions Creams And Ointments

There are three types of moisturizers: lotions, creams, and ointments. Theyâre classified by the amount of oil and water in them. The more oil they contain, the better they are for eczema.

Ointments have the most oil. Theyâre usually the best choice to treat eczema. They wont burn when you apply them to your skin. They help it hold on to moisture.

Some people like to use them overnight. This gives your skin time to absorb them fully. Petroleum jelly and mineral oil are examples.

Creams are a good choice if you dont like the greasy feel of an ointment. They have the second highest amount of oil. They can also seal in moisture.

Be sure to read labels carefully. Creams often contain additives that can irritate your skin or cause allergic reactions in some people.

Lotions are mostly made of water and have the lowest amount of oil. They dont usually work well for people with eczema. They evaporate quickly and may have ingredients that bother your skin.

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What Ingredients Are Best To Help Treat Eczema

Eczema is a clinical dysfunction of the skin barrier, Dr. Libby notes. As such, genetic, environmental, and immunologic factors contribute to its flare-up, but its a priority to repair the skin barrier. Namely, ingredients to help reverse eczematic effects are humectants, emollients and occlusive moisturizers.

According to Dr. Libby, humectants help add moisture back to the skin, while emollients add back oils, lubricating and softening the skin. Occlusive moisturizers work to prevent transepidermal water loss .

Common humectants are glycerin, lactic acid, urea and hyaluronic acid, Dr. Libby adds. Emollients examples are glycol and glyceryl stearate, soy sterols, squalane, and oils like jojoba, sweet almond, etc. Common occlusives are petrolatum, dimethicone, shea butter and mineral oil.

Cerave Daily Moisturizing Lotion

The dermatologists we spoke to recommended this lotion from CeraVe, citing its use of ceramides as the main selling point. “This lotion has a unique blend of high-quality moisturizing agents ,” said Dr. Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, dermatologist at Khrom Dermatology. “Specifically, ceramides play a key role in skin protection and barrier function,” she added. The ingredients are released slowly during the day for all-day hydration, according to the brand.

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Best Multipurpose: Vaseline Skin Protectant

One of the best topicals for eczema is Vaseline ointment,â says dermatologist Evan Rieder, MD. âThough it can be greasy, nothing protects the skin like it. One tip I give to my patients who are really suffering from itchy, dry skin or eczema is to apply Vaseline to their arms and legs before they go to bed and wrap with socks and gloves or Saran wrap. The occlusive barrier allows the skin to recover through the night and alleviates concerns about getting work clothing messy during the days.

Best Budget: Cetaphil Eczema Soothing Moisturizer

Courtesy of Walmart

• May not be effective for severe eczema

• Not suitable for those sensitive or allergic to oat

Studies have shown that oats soothing properties can help treat itchiness in dry skin and help reduce inflammation in skin conditions such as eczema. This National Eczema Associationapproved Cetaphil lotion contains 1 percent colloidal oatmeal that helps relieve skin irritation.

It also has creamy but non-greasy consistency thatâs soothing and hydrating without feeling tacky on the skin. Its a great budget-friendly option for those looking for an effective but still lightweight skin protectant. Its paraben-, fragrance-, and steroid-free and has been endorsed by the National Eczema Association as gentle for eczema-prone skin.

Price at time of publish: $16

Active Ingredient: Colloidal oatmeal | Scent: Fragrance-free | Usage: Can be used as often as needed or as recommended by doctor

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Best For Whole Family: Lemyka Over The Counter Cream For Contact Dermatitis

Compared with other creams in this category, the Lemyka Over The Counter Cream For Contact Dermatitis has a convenient design. The lemyka over the counter cream for contact dermatitis is suitable for both face and body use of all ages. Use this non-greasy fast itch relief lotion for you and your baby as a safer alternative to medicated creams without worrying about any side effects. This natural treatment cream calms down itching and soothes rough skin for all ages.

The cream is toxin free, is cruelty-free and it is great with lavender oil. Further, the cream is formulated with natural and pure ingredients free of any steroids, parabens, irritants, toxins, and gmos. Finally, the lemyka over the counter cream for contact dermatitis is best for long-term results, calms the redness and it is made with propylene glycol.

Almost all buyers agree that the cream is now free of essential oil, and scent free. Also, they also found that the cream is designed for face rashes. And, they say that the lotion is light weight, rich, and provides long lasting moisture for the skin. In short, many customers have used the lemyka over the counter cream for contact dermatitis for more than a few months without letup, and it shows no sign of giving up.

Top Customer Quotes:

Other Ingredients To Soothe Eczema

Research continues to evolve to identify the best ingredients for treating eczema. Dr. Anthony shares two ingredients that have been found to be particularly soothing.

• Licorice root: Studies show that glycyrrhizin, a compound in licorice root, has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe skin with eczema. And Dr. Anthony says its unlikely to cause allergies.
• Colloidal oatmeal: Made of finely milled oat kernels, this ingredient has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that make it a good choice for people with eczema.

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Skinsmart Antimicrobial Eczema Therapy With Hypochlorous Acid Removes Bacteria So Skin Can Heal For Adults Kids And Seniors 8 Ounce Clear Spray

Features :

• NEW APPROACH for problem skin. SkinSmart targets bacteria linked to 70% of eczema conditions
• HELPS HEAL with the antimicrobial benefits of Hypochlorous. If lotions have failed, it’s time to try SkinSmart
• FAST RELIEF Prescription-strength spray helps heal eczema, rosacea and more. STOPS ITCH from rashes and contact dermatitis.
• NATURAL INGREDIENTS are safe for scalp, eyelids and sensitive skin
• RATED 5/5 STARS BY THE NATIONAL ECZEMA ASSOCIATION Steroid-free and cleared for all ages, Actual Product Style and Design may vary

Exederm Flare Control Cream

Exederm Flare Control Cream contains 1% hydrocortisone, which can reduce inflammation and itching, allowing your skin to heal. Because OTC steroid creams arent as potent as prescription-strength, theyre extremely unlikely to cause adverse side effects, so long as theyre used as directed, according to the National Eczema Society. Its when a steroid creamof any strengthis used too often or over an extended period of time that side effects can occur, such as thinning skin, increased hair growth of very fine hair, and perioral dermatitis .

Because this particular eczema cream is the only paraben-free steroid treatment available OTC, Idriss often recommends it to her hypersensitive patients, or those with severely cracked eczema. Patients suffering from eczema that develop dry and severe cracks are more prone to becoming sensitized to certain ingredients and develop allergies over time, she says. Thats why, in general, I try to recommend eczema treatments with simpler and gentler formulas.

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When To Get Medical Help

Severe eczema may require medical intervention. Call 911 if you think it is a life-threatening emergency.

Seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your baby is less than 12 weeks old and has a fever .
• There is a fever, and the skin shows signs of infection, including redness, oozing sores, or pus.
• Numerous small blisters or punched-out sores are present.
• Your child appears to be sick or is behaving as if they are ill.
• You believe it requires urgent attention.

Contact a healthcare provider within 24 hours if:

• The site of the eczema is painful when touched.
• There are signs of infection but no fever.
• You’ve applied corticosteroid cream to the site for over 48 hours, but the itching is still intense.
• You believe this warrants seeing a healthcare provider but not urgently.

Check in with your healthcare provider during office hours if:

• You or your child are having frequent flare-ups.
• A healthcare provider has not confirmed the eczema diagnosis.
• Treatment isn’t helping.
• You would like to discuss your concerns or questions.

What Does Eczema Look Like

Eczema typically makes the skin appear red and splotchy. In some cases, it may also cause the skin to thicken and become dark or brown in color. This condition is typically accompanied by itching and a burning sensation that may get worse if it goes untreated. It can also present as rashes on the elbows and knees, as well as the face. Eczema in babies is more commonly found on the scalp and cheeks. Talk to a dermatologist if you think you may have eczema or to find out more about the right form of eczema treatment for you.

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What Are The Differences Between Psoriasis And Eczema

Both psoriasis and eczema are skin conditions, but they are different in how they appear and feel. Eczema is commonly described as an intense itching feeling whereas psoriasis may include both an itching and burning sensation. Eczema may often appear as a red skin inflammation, whereas psoriasis may appear as silvery or scaly skin and often has a deeper reddish color than eczema. Consult a dermatologist if you are unsure what kind of skin condition you may have to ensure that you get the proper treatment.

Best For Feet: Love Lori Foot Finish Foot Cream

âUrea, which is a humectant, can be very helpful in terms of keeping the feet smooth,â Dr. Markowitz says of this foot creamâs all-star ingredient. The fast-absorbing formula provides instant relief and works to heal dry, cracked, and itchy skin by repairing the moisture barrier, which helps kick-start its renewal process. In addition to soothing dryness in eczema-prone skin, it can also be used as a remedy for calluses and corns.

âGreat for eczema,â. âIt dries it up and helps with itching in the acute stage, and keeps it moisturized enough that it doesnât crack and turn fire engine red when in the subacute stage. I have a really bad flare-up right now, but this urea cream is keeping it from driving me absolutely insane.â

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What Should You Look For In An Eczema Cream

Eczema is a condition in which the skin barrier is not able to maintain the necessary moisture to provide protection from allergens and environmental stressors. People with eczema tend to have dry, irritated, inflamed skin, says Shari Lipner, M.D., Ph.D., associate professor of clinical dermatology at Weill Cornell Medicine. Choosing the right moisturizer can help in preventing eczema flares and treating the eczema.

The best eczema creams and lotions are thicker moisturizers, Adarsh Vijay Mudgil, M.D., double board-certified dermatologist and founder of Mudgil Dermatology, tells SELF.

Its especially important to look for a product that contains humectant ingredients as well as moisturizing and skin-protecting ingredients . Humectants help add additional hydration, while ceramides and occlusive ingredients reinforce the skin barrier, ultimately helping to protect you from irritants that might trigger an eczema flare. Keep an eye out for products with a high oil-content-to-water-content ratio as well, recommends Dr. Lipner.

Of course, there are ingredients youll want to avoid too, Dendy Engelman, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist at Medical Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery, tells SELF. Ingredients to watch out for include fragrances, exfoliating acids , and retinol, she says: These can further irritate the skin by drying them out.

Best For Non Greasy: Clearbody Organics Over The Counter Lotion For Eczema

The clearbody organic over the counter lotion for eczema is specially designed for your regular usage and has all useful features. The clearbody organic over the counter lotion for eczema is best for fast acting, buy again and it works for other ingredients. It can drastically improve the condition of your skin whereas other treatments and creams can act as a bandaid. And, the lotion costs expensive, feels good and it absorbs easily.

Finally, the clearbody organic over thecounter lotionfor eczema applies easily, feels wonderful and it feels nice.

Most buyers found that the lotion does smooth out quickly on skin though, so maybe thats why you needed to apply it twice. In addition, a few also found that the lotion has high body heat to add to that it is not thick like a balm. And, they say that this cream feels very much like a softer, creamier version of shea. To sum up, most buyers agree that the lotion suits them best, and no one questions it.

Top Customer Quotes:

• This has been far too sensitive for a very long time.
• The wax in the cream feels protective, not overly sticky or tacky.
• This cream relieves the itches for several hours and keeps the skin moisturized.
• This is used to, but none of it works now.

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