Published On: Oct 28, 2021
Last Updated On: Oct 26, 2022
CeraVe believes that everyone deserves access to effective skincare. All CeraVe products are developed with dermatologists and formulated with three essential ceramides that play a pivotal role in the skin barrier’s function, which has been identified as a contributor to several chronic skin conditions as well.1 Eczema is one of the most common chronic skin conditions, and the National Eczema Association estimates that more than 31 million people in the United States experience one of the various forms of eczema. This red, itchy rash may be accompanied by blisters, and it is most often seen on the hands, arms, behind the knees and on the face (especially in babies and children). Itching usually occurs before the non-contagious rash appears and leaves the skin looking dry, thickened or scaly.2
The root cause of eczema is still unknown, but dermatologists and researchers believe there is a genetic component to this skin condition. Harsh environmental conditions (such as extreme heat or cold), soaps and detergents, scratchy fabrics, household chemicals and pet dander can be responsible for flare-ups.3 However, research has shown that a compromised skin barrier that allows moisture to escape the skin and leaves it vulnerable to environmental irritants may be an underlying commonality in those who experience eczema.1
This is where ceramides come in. These molecules naturally comprise 50% of the lipids in the skin barrier, and their job is to create a “seal” that holds the uppermost layers of skin cells together, in turn keeping moisture in and irritants out.4 Eczema-prone skin has been found to lack sufficient ceramides.1 All CeraVe products are formulated with a unique blend of three essential ceramides like those found naturally in the skin.
Designed to keep eczema-prone skin calm and comfortable with ongoing use, CeraVe Eczema Relief Creamy Oil combines hyaluronic acid, safflower oil, niacinamide and colloidal oatmeal to temporarily protect and help relieve minor skin irritation and itching due to eczema and rashes. When itch relief is in order, CeraVe Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Cream contains hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and delivers maximum-strength over-the-counter hydrocortisone for temporary relief from itching associated with minor skin irritations, inflammation and rashes due to eczema. As with all CeraVe offerings, both of these eczema-specific products are formulated with three essential ceramides to help restore the skin barrier while helping to relieve eczema symptoms.
Eczema is common in babies and young children as well, and in addition to similar causes and triggers as adults, itchy, inflamed skin in little ones can be due to sweating and saliva on the skin due to drooling.1 Many babies and children eventually outgrow eczema, but it’s imperative to avoid triggers and manage symptoms until they do. CeraVe’s baby products feature three essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to help moisturize and maintain the skin’s protective barrier. CeraVe Baby Wash & Shampoo and Baby Moisturizing Cream are gentle, fragrance-free formulas thatprovide the moisture and soothing that young, delicate skin needs. (Just be sure to check with your pediatrician or dermatologist before trying any new products on delicate baby skin.)
The first step when it comes to managing eczema is identifying the triggers that cause flare-ups. Once you know the factors that contribute to itching and the subsequent rash, avoiding those irritants can help keep eczema-prone skin in the clear.5
Skincare plays a vital role in managing eczema, and it’s important to maintain your skin’s hydration and provide the essential ceramides your skin’s barrier needs to do its job.5 Itch control is key as well, since scratching can lead to breaking the skin, which poses the risk of infection.
In addition to environmental factors, stress may contribute to eczema flare-ups as well.6 If you need help identifying your unique triggers and managing eczema symptoms, it’s best to consult with your dermatologist.
CeraVe is committed to being everyone’s partner on their own unique skincare journey. Whether you’re looking for a solution for eczema, sensitive skin, dry skin, oily skin, rough and bumpy skin, diabetic skin or acne, you can count on CeraVe for effective products and expert advice.
References:
1. T. Ruzicka, B. Przybilla, J. Ring (2006) Handbook of Atopic Eczema; 2nd edition; Springer
2. NationalEczema.org
3. http://www.weishendopublications.com/uploads/3/4/4/9/34499679/eczema.pdf
4. https://www.cerave.com/about-cerave/the-ceramides-difference
5. Sidbury R, Tom WL,et al. “Part 4: Guidelines of care for the management of atopic dermatitis. Part 4: Prevention of disease flares and use of adjunctive therapies and approaches.”J Am Acad Dermatol. 2014 Jul;71(1);1218-33.
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3704139/
Disclosure Notice: Insights for this article have been provided by Dr. Peter Lio, who has experience as a dermatologist treating patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. He is a paid consultant of Pfizer. The unrelenting itch from…
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