Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and irritated patches. It can affect people of all ages, but is most common in children.
What are the symptoms of eczema?
Symptoms of eczema can vary in severity and location, but some common ones include:
- Dry, red, and scaly skin
- Intense itching
- Blisters or oozing
- Thickened skin
- Skin that cracks and bleeds
- Difficulty sleeping due to itching
- Food allergies or sensitivities
What causes eczema flare-ups?
While the exact cause of eczema is unknown, several factors can trigger flare-ups, including:
- Dry weather
- Allergens (dust mites, pollen, pet dander)
- Harsh soaps and detergents
- Fragrances and dyes
- Stress
- Certain foods
How to treat eczema-prone skin:
- Moisturize regularly: Use a fragrance-free moisturizer several times a day to keep skin hydrated and prevent dryness.
- Choose gentle cleansers: Opt for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic soaps and cleansers to avoid irritating the skin.
- Take lukewarm baths: Avoid hot water, which can further dry out the skin.
- Wear loose clothing: Choose soft, breathable fabrics like cotton to avoid irritation.
- Manage stress: Stress can worsen eczema symptoms, so finding healthy ways to manage stress is crucial.
Best Body Moisturizers for Eczema-Prone Skin
Here are some popular moisturizer options for eczema-prone skin with their descriptions. Most of these lotions and creams can be used on both the face and body though you should read the product instructions first to confirm. If you want to find face products for dry, flaky skin, you can click here. I have used many of these products myself since I have eczema. I hope you find the right fit for your skin.
1. Palmer’s Cocoa Butter
This classic cocoa butter formula is one of the best eczema treatments I have personally used. It is gentle and it smells great without having any added fragrance, making it a good choice for sensitive skin. It’s affordable and readily available. A lighter option for those who prefer a non-greasy option is Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Lotion.
(Price range: Ksh 1,000 – Ksh 1,400)
2. Vanicream
This fragrance-free, hypoallergenic cream is formulated specifically for eczema and sensitive skin. It is non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) and contains ceramides, which help restore the skin’s barrier.
(Price range: Ksh 3,000 – Ksh 3,600)
3. Epimax
Epimax is a gentle all-purpose moisturiser and emollient cream. It is dermatologist-recommended, fragrance-free, and contains ceramides. It works well for people of all ages, including babies. There is also Epimax baby & Junior and Epimax Plus.
(Price range: Ksh 1,200 – Ksh 1,800)
4. Cetaphil Eczema Restoraderm Flare-Up Cream
This gentle, fragrance-free lotion is a popular choice for eczema-prone skin. It’s non-comedogenic and provides long-lasting hydration. Cetaphil also has a wide range of products that cater to sensitive skin.
(Price range: Ksh 4,400 – Ksh 4,800)
5. Cerave Moisturising Cream
This brand offers a variety of eczema-friendly moisturizers, including lotions, creams, and ointments. They are fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and contain ceramides and hyaluronic acid to restore the skin’s barrier.
(Price range: Ksh 2,700 – Ksh 3,600 Ksh)
6. Eucerin Advanced Repair Lotion
Eucerin offers a range of eczema-specific creams and lotions, including their Eczema Relief Cream and Eczema Daily Moisturizing Lotion. These products are fragrance-free and contain ingredients like colloidal oatmeal and ceramides to soothe and hydrate.
(Price range: Ksh 3,200 – Ksh 4,900)
7. La Roche-Posay Lipikar Baume AP+
This fragrance-free balm is ideal for dry, itchy skin and contains prebiotics to support the skin’s microbiome. It’s particularly effective for eczema on the face and body.
(Price range: Ksh 3,500 – Ksh 3,900)
8. Bioderma Atoderm Intensive Baume
This fragrance-free balm is formulated for very dry, atopic skin. It contains shea butter and glycerin to deeply hydrate and soothe.
(Price range: Ksh 1,800 – Ksh 4,500 depending on size)
9. Aveeno Eczema Therapy Daily Moisturizing Cream
This fragrance-free lotion contains colloidal oatmeal, known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, and ceramides. It’s suitable for daily use on eczema-prone skin. This product works great for people of all ages. Aveeno has an entire eczema therapy line so I’d recommend using the products together for best results.
(Price range: Ksh 4,300 – Ksh 5,000)
10. Vaseline Petroleum Jelly
While not a moisturizer, petroleum jelly can help seal in moisture and protect the skin from further irritation. It’s particularly beneficial for dry, cracked skin and it does not irritate eczema-prone skin.
(Price range: Ksh 300 – Ksh 550 depending on size)
You can use these products even if you don’t necessarily struggle with eczema. These options are good for people with sensitive skin, dry skin, or even other skin conditions like psoriasis.
Find face products for dry, flaky skin here.
