If you or your child has eczema, you’ve probably heard that moisturizing is important. But do you know why? The key to managing eczema lies in strengthening the skin barrier, and the right moisturizers can make all the difference. Let’s explore how the skin barrier works and why keeping it healthy is essential for controlling eczema.
What Is the Skin Barrier, and Why Is It Important?
The skin barrier is the outermost layer of skin that acts as a shield against:
- Irritants (soaps, chemicals, allergens)
- Bacteria and infections
- Water loss (keeping skin hydrated)
In eczema, the skin barrier is weakened, making it more vulnerable to dryness, irritation, and inflammation. This leads to itching, redness, and flare-ups.
Why Moisturizers Are Essential for Eczema
Moisturizers do more than just relieve dryness—they help restore and protect the skin barrier. The right moisturizer can: ✔️ Lock in hydration to prevent water loss.
✔️ Reduce itching by keeping skin smooth and flexible.
✔️ Block irritants that trigger eczema flare-ups.
✔️ Enhance the skin’s natural defenses against bacteria and infections.
Types of Moisturizers: Which One Works Best?
Not all moisturizers are created equal. Here’s how to choose the best one for eczema:
- Ointments (e.g., Vaseline, Aquaphor) – Thickest and most effective at sealing in moisture.
- Creams (e.g., CeraVe, Eucerin, Vanicream) – Hydrating and less greasy than ointments.
- Lotions – Contain more water and may not be moisturizing enough for eczema-prone skin.
- Barrier Repair Creams (e.g., EpiCeram, CeraVe Healing Ointment) – Contain ceramides to restore the skin barrier.
How to Apply Moisturizers for Maximum Benefit
✔️ Apply immediately after bathing (within 3 minutes) to lock in moisture.
✔️ Use generously and frequently, especially on dry patches.
✔️ Avoid fragrances and alcohol, which can irritate sensitive skin.
✔️ Layer with medicated creams (like steroid or non-steroid creams) as directed by your doctor.
FAQ: Moisturizers and Eczema Management
Q: Can I use coconut oil or natural oils instead of a moisturizer?
A: Some natural oils (like sunflower oil) can help, but many (like coconut oil) may not provide enough barrier protection.
Q: How often should I moisturize eczema-prone skin?
A: At least twice a day, and more often during flare-ups.
Q: Can using the wrong moisturizer make eczema worse?
A: Yes! Lotions with alcohol or fragrances can dry out or irritate the skin further.
A Personal Story
One of my patients, Jake, had constant eczema flare-ups despite using lotions. First, we switched him to a thick ointment-based moisturizer and added ceramides. This made a world of difference. Then we added Dupixent and allergy shots to his regimen, and his skin improved dramatically—less itching, fewer flares, and better sleep!
If you have eczema, think of moisturizer as your skin’s daily armor. Choosing the right one and applying it consistently can help keep your skin healthy and flare-free!
What are you waiting for? If you or your child need help controlling allergies or if you think you need testing or treatment or that you might be a good candidate for allergy shots, Dr. Wendt and her team staff at Relieve Allergy, Asthma & Hives would love to help. Call for testing or treatment today!
Call 480-500-1902 or request an appointment at https://relieveallergyaz.com/contact now! Begin your allergy testing journey with Dr. Wendt at Relieve Allergy in Scottsdale, Arizona—It’s time to take care of yourself!
Learn more about Dr. Wendt and Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives at www.relieveallergyaz.com or connect with us: https://www.facebook.com/RelieveAllergy/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-wendt/, https://x.com/RelieveAllergy, https://www.instagram.com/relieve_allergy/ or https://www.youtube.com/@JulieWendt-qx7jm.
Did you know? Dr. Wendt wrote the book on allergies. Buy it NOW!
Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives is located near Kierland Commons, 21803 N. Scottsdale Road Ste. 200, and has convenient evening and morning hours to accommodate your schedule. Dr. Wendt is also available for telemedicine appointments as appropriate. Most insurance plans are accepted.
DISCLAIMER: This blog is not meant to substitute for medical care by an Allergist-Immunologist nor is it intended to provide medical advice or imply a Physician-Patient relationship with its readers or their family. It is intended to provide guidance, direction, and moral support from someone experienced in testing and treating allergies. This is also not meant to be a “do-it-yourself” manual or a “how to” overcome your allergies. Some of the issues mentioned, whether allergic or look-a-like, can be dangerous or if left unchecked, deadly. Please develop a relationship with a Physician you trust to help you with diagnosis, advice, questions, and treatment regarding your and your family’s medical conditions.
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