Eczema, a chronic skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin, affects millions of people worldwide. For those with this condition, a reliable and effective eczema cream can provide much-needed relief and long-term management of symptoms. Eczema creams work by moisturizing and hydrating the skin, reducing inflammation, and helping to repair the skin barrier.
There are various types of eczema creams available, each with its own unique blend of ingredients tailored to address specific skin concerns. Some creams are fortified with natural, plant-based ingredients, while others contain medicated components targeting more severe cases of eczema. Whatever your skin's needs may be, there is likely an eczema cream out there that can offer relief and improvement.
When looking to purchase the best eczema cream, it's crucial to consider factors such as ingredients, skin type compatibility, and potential side effects. It's essential to choose a cream that is free of common irritants, such as fragrances, dyes, and sulfates, as these can potentially worsen eczema symptoms. It's helpful to select a cream that has been dermatologist-tested and proven to be safe and effective for sensitive skin.
Armed with this knowledge, we have dedicated ourselves to extensive research and testing of various eczema creams to help you find the right product for your skin needs. In the following sections, we share our findings and present the best eczema creams that deliver relief and results.
Best Eczema Creams
We have carefully researched and compiled a list of the best eczema creams to help soothe and manage your symptoms.
Soteri Skin - NO MORE ROUGH PATCHES
We recommend Soteri Skin's NO MORE ROUGH PATCHES for those seeking relief from itchy, irritated skin while enjoying a luxurious, pH-balanced cream.
Pros
- Unique pH-correcting formula maintains optimal pH for skin healing
- Nutrient rich formula nourishes healthy skin microbiome
- Developed by experts and clinicaly tested for eczema relief
Cons
- Unscented, which might not appeal to some users
Soteri Skin's NO MORE ROUGH PATCHES immediately restores the skin’s surface pH by resetting it to its optimal level of 4.7 and maintains this balance for 12 hours. Once the skin's pH balance is restored, the skin barrier is strengthened, allowing the skin to both lock in moisture and keep allergens and pathogens out.
Developed by a Harvard biomedical Ph.D. in collaboration with leading dermatologists, this product addresses the underlying causes of eczema. It is enriched with powerful, best-in-class ingredients such as Niacinamide, essential amino acids, colloidal oatmeal, hyaluronic acid, and fatty acids. These components combat oxidative stress, act as anti-inflammatories, and lock in maximum hydration, nourishing the microbiome and strengthening the skin barrier.
NO MORE ROUGH PATCHES is the only moisturizer that supports the three pillars of skin health: the acid mantle, the skin barrier, and the skin microbiome. It delivers long-lasting relief from flare-ups, dryness, itching, and redness.
CeraVe Eczema Relief Creamy Body Oil
If you're seeking a deeply moisturizing and effective solution for eczema-prone skin, CeraVe Eczema Relief Creamy Body Oil is a must-try product.
Pros
- Provides relief from dry, itchy, and scaly skin
- Lightweight, non-greasy texture absorbs quickly
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and dye-free
Cons
- May not be suitable for extremely severe eczema
- Some may find the consistency too thin compared to traditional creams
- May require frequent reapplication
The moment we tried CeraVe Eczema Relief Creamy Body Oil, we noticed the pleasant texture that feels like a combination of a moisturizing cream and a body oil. Its unique, lightweight formula provided our extra-dry, itchy skin with instant relief. This product contains Colloidal Oatmeal, which is known to help alleviate eczema symptoms such as scaly patches of skin. The ceramides and soothing oils in this product, including safflower oil, helped repair and restore our skin's protective barrier.
With its fragrance-free, paraben-free, and dye-free nature, CeraVe Eczema Relief Creamy Body Oil is suitable for sensitive skin and those suffering from eczema. Although it may not entirely replace prescription treatments for severe eczema, it's still a great option for someone seeking a more natural approach to managing their condition. Keep in mind that some might find its consistency a bit thinner compared to traditional creams, potentially necessitating more frequent reapplication.
CeraVe Eczema Relief Creamy Body Oil has genuinely impressed us with its soothing oil-cream formula, providing relief to our irritated skin. Although it may not be the ideal solution for all types of eczema, it is worth considering for those seeking a gentle, effective, and moisturizing treatment.
Cetaphil Eczema Restoraderm Flare-Up Relief Cream
Get relief from eczema symptoms with this effective and gentle cream for sensitive skin.
Pros
- Supports skin barrier health
- Provides 48-hour hydration
- Hypoallergenic, steroid, fragrance, and paraben-free
Cons
- Tube packaging can be a bit difficult to squeeze
- Cream may be too slick for some users
- Not effective for all eczema cases
We've been using Cetaphil's Eczema Restoraderm Flare-Up Relief Cream to soothe our itchy and irritated skin. The rich formula is clinically proven to start repairing the skin's barrier within just 24 hours, providing fast relief from common eczema symptoms such as dryness, roughness, and itchiness.
Designed for sensitive skin, this hypoallergenic cream locks in moisture for an impressive 48 hours. This extended period of hydration relieved our persistently uncomfortable skin, and we appreciated how it is free from steroids, fragrances, and parabens.
We did find that the tube packaging was a bit difficult to squeeze, making it challenging to get the cream out. A jar container might be a better option. Some of us found the cream a bit too slick, making it inconvenient to use during the daytime. While it showed great results for some of us, it didn't provide the desired relief for everyone's eczema symptoms.
Cetaphil's Eczema Restoraderm Flare-Up Relief Cream is a promising option for those looking to find relief from their eczema-prone skin. While it may not be suitable for everyone, its skin barrier repair and extended hydration are definite selling points.
Bioderma Atoderm Intensive Balm
We recommend the Bioderma Atoderm Intensive Balm for those with sensitive and dry skin, as it provides effective hydration without causing irritation.
Pros
- Excellent hydration for dry skin
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Long-lasting moisturizing effect
Cons
- Slightly strange odor
- May not be ideal for oily skin
- Higher price point
As a recent user of the Bioderma Atoderm Intensive Balm, we found it to be highly effective in nourishing and hydrating our dry and sensitive skin. This balm stands out from other lotions and creams on the market due to its gentle formula, which doesn't cause any irritation or discomfort.
The balm has a unique texture that glides smoothly on the skin, absorbing quickly and providing deep hydration. In our experience, the moisturizing effect lasted for several days, making it a convenient solution for those who don't have time for daily applications.
We noticed an unusual scent to the balm, which may not be to everyone's liking. While it isn't overpowering, it's worth noting for those who are sensitive to smells. Bioderma Atoderm Intensive Balm may not be suitable for those with oily skin, as its rich consistency may feel too heavy.
Although the price is somewhat higher compared to other creams, we believe it's worth the investment, given the visible results and the improvement in our skin's condition.
Bioderma Atoderm Intensive Balm is an excellent choice for those in need of deep hydration for their dry or sensitive skin. Its long-lasting and effective moisturizing properties make it a top contender in the realm of eczema creams.
Aveeno Eczema Therapy Daily Moisturizing Body Cream
We highly recommend Aveeno Eczema Therapy Daily Moisturizing Body Cream due to its effectiveness in relieving eczema symptoms and maintaining skin moisture.
Pros
- Clinically proven to relieve dry, itchy, and irritated skin
- National Eczema Association Seal of Approval
- Allergy tested, steroid-free, and fragrance-free
Cons
- No pump included, despite product image
- Not the cheapest option available
- May not work for everyone's skin type
Aveeno's Eczema Therapy Daily Moisturizing Body Cream has been a game-changer in our personal experience with managing eczema. It's formulated with colloidal oatmeal and ceramide, which help strengthen our skin's natural moisture barrier and soothe irritation. Since using this cream, we've noticed a dramatic reduction in itchiness, dryness, and discomfort. We also appreciate that it's allergy tested, steroid-free, and fragrance-free, making it a suitable option for those with sensitive skin.
One downside we've noticed is that the product image on Amazon shows a pump included, which is not the case in reality. This can be misleading and may cause some inconvenience in terms of application. While Aveeno Eczema Therapy cream is certainly effective, it's not the most budget-friendly option on the market. If you're searching for an eczema cream within a tight budget, you may need to consider other alternatives.
Despite the cons, we still believe that Aveeno Eczema Therapy Daily Moisturizing Body Cream is worth trying for those struggling with eczema. In our experience, the benefits it provides in terms of relief and skin protection outweigh its few drawbacks. Give it a shot and see if it works for your skin as it did for ours.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best eczema cream, here are several factors that can help you make an informed decision. Here are some of the key features we recommend focusing on.
Ingredients
Choose a cream containing gentle, hydrating ingredients that soothe and moisturize eczema-prone skin. Look for ingredients like:
- Ceramides: These lipids help strengthen the skin barrier, which is often compromised in eczema.
- Hyaluronic acid: This powerful humectant attracts and retains moisture to keep your skin hydrated.
- Colloidal oatmeal: Known for its soothing properties, it is often used to calm irritated skin.
pH
Choose moisturizers that help to maintain the skin's low, acidic pH. Elevated skin pH levels can be a critical factor in triggering eczema symptoms. Many moisturizers have too high pH levels and are not suitable for eczema sufferers.
Texture and Consistency
The texture of the cream is another important factor. We recommend looking for a product that is:
- Non-greasy: A lightweight, fast-absorbing cream will be more comfortable to use and won't leave a heavy residue on your skin.
- Thick and creamy: A thicker cream can provide a protective barrier on the skin, helping to lock in moisture and relieve dryness.
Fragrance-free
Many eczema sufferers have sensitive skin that can be easily irritated by fragrances. Opt for a cream that is fragrance-free to minimize the risk of further irritation.
Hypoallergenic
Look for products labeled as hypoallergenic. These creams should have a minimal risk of causing an allergic reaction compared to non-hypoallergenic products.
Recommendations and Reviews
Researching product recommendations from dermatologists and reading customer reviews can help you gauge the effectiveness of a particular eczema cream. Always consider both expert opinions and personal experiences when selecting a product.
By focusing on these important features, you can confidently choose a cream that provides the relief and protection your skin needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What over-the-counter creams are best for treating eczema?
There are several over-the-counter creams we recommend for treating eczema. These include Aquaphor Healing Ointment, Aveeno Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Cream, CeraVe Eczema Soothing Creamy Oil, and Eucerin Eczema Relief Cream. These creams typically contain moisturizing and anti-inflammatory ingredients, such as ceramides, colloidal oatmeal, and glycerin.
Which prescription ointments are effective for eczema?
For more severe cases of eczema, we suggest consulting with a doctor to obtain a prescription ointment. Some of the most effective prescription ointments for eczema include topical corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone, and calcineurin inhibitors, such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus. These medications help reduce inflammation and improve the skin's overall condition.
What are the top eczema treatments for adults?
For adults dealing with eczema, we recommend using a combination of treatments to address symptoms. Start with over-the-counter creams mentioned earlier and consider incorporating other remedies, such as regular lukewarm baths, proper skin moisturization, and avoiding potential irritants. In more persistent cases, a doctor may prescribe medications to help control itching and inflammation.
What natural lotions are recommended for eczema?
Natural lotions can be a great option for those looking to avoid harsh chemicals. Some of our top recommended natural lotions for eczema include Wild Naturals Eczema & Psoriasis Cream, Alba Botanica Very Emollient Body Lotion, and Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream. Many natural lotions contain calming ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and calendula.
Which creams are best for eczema on the face?
When dealing with eczema on the face, it's important to use gentle products specifically formulated for sensitive facial skin. We suggest trying creams such as La Roche-Posay Lipikar Eczema Soothing Relief Cream, Cetaphil PRO Eczema Soothing Moisturizer, and EltaMD Intense Moisturizer. These creams are designed for use on the face and are free of fragrances and other potential irritants.
How can you treat eczema on hands effectively?
For eczema on the hands, we recommend using a combination of moisturizing creams and protective measures. Apply a fragrance-free, thick moisturizing cream, such as Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream or Gloves In A Bottle Shielding Lotion, throughout the day. Protect your hands by wearing gloves when necessary to avoid exposure to water, harsh chemicals, or other irritants that can exacerbate eczema symptoms.