Treating eczema
MOISTURE IS KEY
If you have eczema, you probably already know that moisturizers can help keep your skin hydrated.
There are many types of moisturizers, including ointments, creams, lotions, gels, and oils. It’s important to follow your doctor’s recommendations about your moisturizing routine.
Ointments are good barriers that help retain moisture in your skin and may be less irritating because they are less likely to contain preservatives. Creams may be less greasy. Lotions may be more easily spread on the skin. Choice of moisturizer is often made based on patient and healthcare practitioner preferences.
No matter which moisturizer your doctor recommends, applying it to damp skin after bathing will help keep your skin hydrated.
NON-PRESCRIPTION OPTIONS
In addition to moisturizers, your doctor may recommend that you try a non-prescription product, like a colloidal
PRESCRIPTION OPTIONS
A prescription product may be needed to help treat your eczema. Your doctor may recommend using prescription moisturizers or a skin barrier cream.
Or, maybe your doctor has recommended other medications like prescription-strength topical corticosteroids (TCSs) or topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs). TCSs and TCIs can be effective treatments. Your doctor may tell you to limit how often you use some of these products, or specify where they can be applied on the body.
Learn how you can discuss treatment options from home with telemedicine.