Creams, Lotions, Oils & Ointments for Eczema

Creams and lotions can sometimes have a drying effect.  Creams can be helpful for drying weepy eczema, and oils and ointments are better for dry eczema.  Please note that just as drying agents used on the skin for acne can encourage the skin to produce more oil, overuse of oils on the skin can discourage the skin from producing natural oils.  Moderation is good; whatever you use, just use it sparingly. 

Although mineral oil can suffocate the skin with long term use, for short term use while the skin needs a bandaid, it's one thing I know of that won't aggravate sensitive skin, because it's inert.  You'll find it in the laxative section at the stores.  However, sunflower oil improves the barrier function of the skin.  Also check out the benefits of Red Palm Oil. 

Internal Help.  Consume good fats like flax and olive oil to moisturize from within.  To help regulate the sweat and oil glands, get enough biotin, zinc and water.   Hyaluronic acid is needed to cushion and lubricate joints, eyes, skin and heart valves.  

My Motto:  The less you over wash your skin, the less you'll dry it out.  The less you dry it out, the less you need to put on it.  The less you put on, the less you aggravate it, and putting a lot of anything on the skin can make it itchy.   Please also see The Proper Perspective Web Page.

Developing sensitivities can be a concern for some people.  I've heard people say things like, "I've used that product a long time and it can't possibly be aggravating my terrible case of eczema."  People develop sensitivities over time.  The treatment for chemical sensitivity is avoidance, this decreases the total body burden and allows for the recovery of the overtaxed detoxification system.  I like to use a product for a while, switch to something else, and then switch back again.  This way the chances of becoming sensitive to products is lessened.  

A word of caution ... lanolin can aggravate eczema.  Refer to:  The Ingredients Web Page and The Anti-Itch Web Page.