Moisturizers
The products listed have applied for and been awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance™. Select a product for more information.
The importance of moisturizing cannot be over emphasized as a treatment for eczema and sensitive skin. Moisturizers maintain skin hydration and barrier function. Generic petroleum jelly and mineral oil (without additives) are two of the safest, most effective moisturizing products.
TIPS FOR CHOOSING A MOISTURIZER
Finding a moisturizer that works for you or someone you care for can be a challenge. What works for one person may not work for another. As the condition of your skin changes so can the effectiveness of a product. A manufacturer may also change the formulation of a product from one year to the next. Take the following steps when introducing a new product to your skin.
- If you know you are allergic to a particular ingredient check the label before you buy.
- Review the list of moisturizers that have received the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance™.
- The first time you apply a new product use a small amount (about the size of a pea) to the pulse of your wrist or the crook of your elbow. Do not wash the area for 24-48 hours and watch for any allergic reaction such as redness, a rash, any form of breakouts on the skin, itchiness, pain, flaking etc.
There are three basic classes of moisturizers:
OINTMENTS
Ointments are semi-solid greases that help to hydrate the skin by preventing water loss. Petroleum jelly has no additional ingredients, whereas other ointments contain a small proportion of water or other ingredients to make the ointment more spreadable. Ointments are very good at helping the skin retain moisture but they are often disliked because of their greasiness.
CREAMS
Creams are thick mixtures of greases in water or another liquid. They contain a lower proportion of grease than ointments, making them less greasy. A warning: creams often contain stabilizers and preservatives to prevent separation of their main ingredients, and these additives can cause skin irritation or even allergic reactions for some people.
LOTIONS
Lotions are mixtures of oil and water, with water being the main ingredient. Most lotions do not function well as moisturizers for people with dry skin conditions because the water in the lotion evaporates quickly.
Special Note: Nut oil, food/plant derivatives, and some natural ingredients can raise allergy issues for some individuals, and be of concern for pediatric patients. Each Seal of Acceptance™ Review will alert consumers to the presence of nut oils and similar natural ingredients. Contact your medical professional for guidance.