Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that causes dry, bumpy, and itchy skin. It is a very common skin concern affecting more than 31 million people in the country. Often triggered by environmental factors or allergens, the condition weakens the skin barrier function, depriving the skin of moisture. So, treatments for the disease aim to hydrate the skin hydrated and repair the damage. So, below are some of the best types of creams for eczema:

Common treatment options
Eczema can cause dry and scaly skin. So, to manage the symptoms, it is important to keep the skin moisturized. Here, eczema-friendly creams, lotions, ointments, and oils prevent dryness and itching by helping provide and retain moisture in the skin. These topical treatments also help protect the skin barrier. Here is a deeper look at the types of moisturizers one may use to relieve eczema symptoms:

Eczema-friendly creams: Creams are thicker in consistency than other topical moisturizing solutions. They have more oil content and less water and are good at sealing in moisture. Even though the eczema-friendly creams have substantial oil content, it is not enough to make them greasy. Typically, the creams do not quickly penetrate the skin and do not have to be applied multiple times a day. Many of the best creams for eczema contain colloidal oatmeal as the active ingredient. Before buying a cream, one should check the ingredients and make sure that it does not contain stabilizers and preservatives that can irritate the skin. Eczema creams available today are typically free from allergens, parabens, and fragrances.

Lotions for eczema: Lotions are lighter than creams due to their high water content. The formula used for lotions makes them spread evenly and quite smoothly over the skin. Lotions get absorbed quickly and, so, require frequent reapplication. Lotions for eczema are usually made of high-quality moisturizing substances like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin. Here, too, one should check the product label to avoid irritants and look for ingredients that relieve dry and scaly skin and restore the skin barrier.

Ointments: Ointments are another type of skin product used to manage eczema symptoms. It is usually the prime choice for relieving dry skin. Of all the moisturizing products on the list, ointments are the most oily options, and due to the high oil content, they are extremely good at sealing in the moisture in the skin. Ointments that have ingredients like petroleum jelly and mineral oil are known for relieving certain eczema symptoms. One can apply them as often as needed.

Skin barrier creams: Skin barrier creams contain ingredients like lipids and ceramides—natural compounds found on the skin. Lipids are the critical component of cells, and ceramides are a kind of lipid that consists of oily wax. These compounds in the skin barrier creams form a protective layer on the skin and block moisture, helping heal dry skin by keeping it hydrated. Skin barrier creams are typically supposed to be applied to the affected area.

Key eczema-friendly ingredients
An effective eczema cream should have either emollients, humectants, or occlusives, or a combination of these ingredients. Here is a look at some of the common ingredients found in the top eczema creams:

Colloidal oatmeal: It is an emollient, which means it can seal moisture in the skin. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, so it can help reduce inflammation and itching.

Shea butter: Also an emollient, shea butter can smoothen and soften the dry skin. It also contains certain compounds that can reduce the swelling in the affected area.

Glycerin: This is a humectant, which means it can draw in moisture from the surroundings into the skin. Glycerin also helps heal cracks and repair the skin barrier.

Hyaluronic acid: Another humectant that helps keep the skin hydrated

Vitamin E: This vitamin has anti-inflammatory properties, thereby helping reduce the inflammation associated with eczema.

Petrolatum or petroleum jelly: It is an occlusive moisturizer, which means it keeps the skin hydrated by sealing in the moisture.

Niacinamide: This ingredient exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, helping soothe irritated skin and accompanying redness and blotchiness.

Aloe vera: This is a natural moisturizer that is believed to work for eczema-damaged skin. Aloe vera gel can help soothe dry, itchy skin associated with the condition.

Eczema can cause severe skin irritation and dryness; however, finding the right products that soothe the skin can help one deal with the symptoms. When looking for the best eczema creams, one should choose a moisturizer that is hypoallergic, fragrance-free, suitable for sensitive skin, and packed with skin-friendly ingredients that help retain moisture and soothe irritation.