Which Eczema Cream is Best?

There are times when children with eczema struggle finding any relief from symptoms. This condition causes red, inflamed skin known as “dermatitis.” Though there isn’t a cure for eczema, one way to manage the symptoms is through regular moisturizing. Keep in mind that it’s imperative to prevent dry skin as much as possible. Should your child’s skin lose moisture, their eczema symptoms will only get worse. Experts recommend establishing a good skin care routine which includes bathing and moisturizing. That said, which moisturizers are most effective for your child? Keep reading to find out.

1. Ointments - The National Eczema Association suggests ointment as the first choice for treatment. Ointments have the highest oil content of all the products so you don’t have to be concerned about them burning when applied. Not to mention, ointments have quite the knack for sealing in moisture. In terms of specific products, consider trying petroleum jelly or mineral oil. If your child doesn’t like the way these feel on their skin, don’t hesitate to explore lubricants, creams, and hydrating gels. Pro tip: For best results, apply ointment at night so it can be better absorbed into the skin.
2. Creams - Similar to ointments, creams are also good at sealing in moisture. Since they have less oil, creams are also less greasy to the touch. Before you buy a cream for your child’s eczema, take a long look at the label. There are some that contain stabilizers or preservatives that only irritate the skin further.
3. Lotions - These moisturizers contain the least amount of oil. Since they’re mainly made of water, lotions evaporate quickly and may contain preservatives that burn when applied to skin that’s either scratched or broken. Should your child’s skin sting or burn after the application of lotion, switch to an ointment or cream instead.     

When to Moisturize

It’s one thing to moisturize your child’s skin, but it’s another to do so at the optimal time of day. If you haven’t yet already, get into the habit of moisturizing following a bath or shower. Note that water is a great way to put moisture back into the skin, but only if you use lukewarm water. It may be tempting for them, but be sure that your child avoids scrubbing. Once they’ve finished bathing, gently pat your child’s skin partially dry. Watch for when the skin is almost dry and then apply any medicine your child takes. Finally, apply the moisturizer on the top of the medicine and to the rest of their skin.   

Eczema Clothing Your Child Will Love

Our team recently developed Soothems as a therapeutic treatment to help children who have particularly sensitive skin. These garments are made from a proprietary smart fabric known as TEWLTect, a blend of high-performance cellulosic polymer fibers enhanced with chitosan and zinc oxide. The properties of the fabric provide a positive, calming effect when the skin releases moisture. Plus, our therapeutic clothing for eczema can be used wet or dry, with or without emollients, and with any prescribed topical steroids.

From eczema mittens and eczema gloves to eczema suits and eczema sleeves, we have just what your child needs to enjoy symptom relief. Contact us today for more information regarding moisturizers.