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Using an eczema cream is one of the main ways to treat and manage the dry, red and itchy skin that eczema can cause. This is because the regular use of an eczema cream helps soothe dry skin, reduce itching and prevent inflammation. Not only should the affected areas be treated, but the whole body also to keep the skin hydrated and protected.
Choosing the best eczema cream can often be difficult – they all have their pros and cons. To help you choose, I have listed below some creams commonly used to treat eczema.
Topical Steroid Creams are the most often prescribed eczema creams. They are available in different strengths and formulas which can be purchased over the counter or prescribed by your doctor. Whilst steroid creams can clear up the eczema quickly and effectively, these should always be used sparingly and for a short period of time. The overuse of topical steroids can lead to a thinning effect on the skin, making it more fragile and prone to peeling and breaking. Because of the possible side-effects of steroid creams, it’s best to consult your doctor and to strictly follow his advice.
Creams such as E45, aqueous cream and sudocrem are some of the most popular creams recommended for treating dry, rough and itchy skin. These types of creams contain paraffin, lanolin and other ingredients which provide a layer of oil on the surface of the skin. This works by preventing water loss and so keeping the skin moisturized. On the positive side these creams help relieve eczema symptoms effectively and are inexpensive and easy to buy. On the negative side, they contain paraffin and other ingredients which may irritate the skin and make the symptoms worse.
If you do not want to use an eczema cream that contains harsh chemicals then you could try a more natural alternative such as shea butter. Shea butter is a particularly effective moisturizer because it contains fatty acids which help retain skin moisture and elasticity. It also contains vitamins A and E which help protect the skin from environmental damage, as well as having anti-inflammatory properties. Using 100% unrefined shea butter is the most ideal since all the original vitamins are retained. However, it can be a bit smelly. Unfortunately, a lot of shea products contain potentially irritating additives and have only a small proportion of real shea butter. If you have an allergy to nuts, then this type of moisturizer is not recommended.
Creams that contain ingredients such as calendula, evening primrose oil, chamomile, aloe vera and Chinese herbs are also natural alternatives. Whilst these products have ingredients that come from natural sources and are kinder to the skin, you need to check whether they contain fragrances and other chemicals that might trigger a skin reaction.
There are so many types of eczema cream that it may take a bit of trial and error to find the one that suits you best. It is always best to consult your dermatologist as he can advise you on the best eczema creams on the market. Using a good eczema cream everyday is vital in keeping your skin moist, hydrated and protected.
