Eczema can be a debilitating condition for many people, causing painful, itchy rashes which are often aggravated by environmental conditions and ingredients in many common emollients. For some, eczema can be managed with topical applications of non-steroidal products, but for others, life will seem to revolve around antihistamines, paraben-free bath products and steroid ointments.
As October is Eczema Awareness Month, we feel it's an appropriate time to discuss some readily available products that are usually suitable for eczema-prone skin and which can help alleviate this common skin complaint.
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CeraVe
CeraVe's range of moisturisers and cleansers are hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and non-comedogenic. They are made with a special anti-itch formula which has been proven to be gentle yet effective, even on eczema-prone skin.
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La Roche Posay
La Roche Posay have developed a range of fragrance and paraben-free products specifically for use on dry and sensitive skin. Their Dermo Cleanser is approved by the UK British Allergy Foundation, while their Cicaplast Baume B5 repairing balm has an antibacterial action to protect against infection and prevent scarring.
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Avene
Avene's range of restorative balms, cleansers and creams are non-comedogenic, free from preservatives and they nourish the skin's natural microbiome. Their anti-itch formula provides much-needed relief from itchy, dry skin and it can help to break the itch-scratch cycle that can tip an eczema flare-up from uncomfortable to intolerable.
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iS Clinical
Body Complex, by iS Clinical, is a soothing lotion specifically designed for use on sensitive skin, and it has been proven to benefit eczema and dermatitis sufferers. Hyaluronic acid, aloe vera and fruit acid extracts combine to create a naturally antimicrobial and deeply nourishing formula that provides immediate hydration to sore, dry skin.
Choosing the right products for your skin
Eczema sufferers will know the importance of selecting products with as few ingredients as possible and opting for paraben and sulphate-free products which are less likely to trigger an allergic reaction. Look for products that will restore your skin's natural moisture barrier, break the itch-scratch cycle and actively moisturise.
Always do a patch test before using a new product so that any harmful effects are limited to a small area, rather than causing a full-scale breakout. This is important, even if you have used the brand before, as minor changes to ingredients or opting for a different product to your usual, familiar favourite can unbalance sensitive skin and cause redness, itching and irritation.
Oil-based products are usually the most effective on eczema-prone skin, but as these can be greasy, they are often best used before bed, for overnight relief from the symptoms of eczema. Moisturising creams can also be applied regularly throughout the day, and particularly after washing, as natural evaporation from your skin after wetting and drying it can lead to it feeling dry, cracking and becoming painful.
Remember, your skin is as unique as you are and what works for someone else may not work for you, so persevere with your research into the best products for you. There will be something out there to suit you. You just need to find it.