Eczema is a chronic skin condition characterized by inflammation, intense itching, and dryness. This discomfort stems from a compromised skin barrier, the outermost layer of skin that normally functions like a wall to keep moisture in and irritants out. In eczema, this barrier is “leaky,” leading to excessive water loss and making the skin vulnerable to environmental triggers. The primary goal of moisturizing is to repair this dysfunctional barrier, reduce water evaporation, and shield the skin from external substances that cause flare-ups.
Choosing the Right Moisturizer Form
The choice of moisturizer form—lotion, cream, or ointment—is determined by its oil-to-water ratio. Ointments have the highest oil content and the least water, making them the thickest and most occlusive option. This high-oil composition creates a superior protective barrier, which is particularly beneficial for severely dry or cracked skin. Ointments are generally considered the best choice for active flares and nighttime use.
Creams are a balanced mix of oil and water, offering a thicker consistency than lotions but feeling less greasy than ointments. They are an excellent choice for daily maintenance and daytime use, as they absorb quickly while still sealing in moisture.
Lotions contain the most water and the least oil, resulting in a thin, easily spreadable texture. While they may feel pleasant, their high water content means they evaporate quickly. This makes lotions the least effective for deeply hydrating and repairing the compromised barrier of eczema-prone skin.
The ideal product choice depends on the current state of the skin and the climate. For dry skin, cold weather, or active flare-ups, a thicker ointment provides necessary barrier protection. It is common for people to use a combination, such as a cream during the day and a heavier ointment at night.
Essential Soothing and Barrier-Repairing Ingredients
The most effective moisturizers contain ingredients that actively help rebuild the skin’s natural barrier. Ceramides are important components; they are lipids that act as the “mortar” between skin cells, which are often deficient in people with eczema. Replenishing ceramides restores the barrier’s integrity, significantly reducing water loss and protecting against irritants.
Moisturizers also rely on humectants, such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid, which draw water into the outermost layer of the skin. Glycerin pulls moisture from the air and deeper skin layers to hydrate the skin. Emollients, including ingredients like shea butter and mineral oil, work by filling the spaces between skin cells to smooth and soften the skin’s surface.
For relief from inflammation and itching, colloidal oatmeal is a highly recommended and well-studied ingredient. This finely ground substance possesses natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help calm irritated skin. Colloidal oatmeal is recognized as a skin protectant and can improve eczema symptoms and itch-related discomfort.
Common Irritants to Avoid in Lotions
Avoiding ingredients that can trigger or worsen a flare-up is equally important for managing eczema. Fragrances are one of the most common irritants, whether synthetic perfumes or natural essential oils. These compounds can cause skin sensitivity and allergic reactions, leading to redness and inflammation.
Look for products clearly labeled “fragrance-free,” because products marked merely “unscented” may still contain masking chemicals that neutralize odors but can still irritate sensitive skin. Certain preservatives, such as formaldehyde-releasing agents and methylisothiazolinone, are also known allergens and should be avoided. Dyes and artificial coloring agents can similarly provoke reactions in compromised skin.
Drying alcohols, specifically ethanol, denatured alcohol, and isopropyl alcohol, are often used for quick-drying properties but strip the skin of its natural oils. This stripping action further dehydrates the skin and weakens the barrier, which can intensify dryness and itching. Fatty alcohols, like cetyl or stearyl alcohol, are different; they are generally well-tolerated and act as emollients to moisturize the skin.
Maximizing Efficacy Through Application Technique
Knowing how to apply moisturizer is key to achieving the best results, often summarized by the “soak and seal” method. The most effective time to apply moisturizer is immediately after a bath or shower, while the skin is still damp, a practice known as the “3-minute rule.” Applying the product at this time traps the water absorbed during bathing before it can evaporate.
Gently patting the skin dry with a towel, leaving it slightly moist, prepares the skin surface for maximum absorption. Applying moisturizer to damp skin seals in hydration, reinforcing the skin barrier and reducing water loss. Moisturizer should be applied at least twice daily and whenever the skin feels dry or tight.
If a topical prescription medication is part of the treatment plan, apply it first, directly to the affected areas, and allow it to absorb for a few minutes. The moisturizer should then be layered over the medication. This routine maximizes the benefits of both the treatment and the barrier repair product.