Patient handout · Skin Care
Dry, itchy, and irritated skin can be a painful and frustrating experience, especially for those with atopic dermatitis (or eczema) or other skin conditions like psoriasis. Fortunately, a moisturizer can help soothe and hydrate the skin, reducing symptoms and preventing further damage. However, with so many products on the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one. In this blog post, we'll provide tips on choosing and using a moisturizer effectively to keep your skin healthy and radiant.
Moisturizers come in three types: lotions, creams, and ointments. These categories are based on their oil and water content, with ointments containing the most oil and lotions containing the least.
If you have eczema, choosing an ointment is best because it has the most oil and can help your skin retain moisture. Vaseline, Aquaphor, and Cerave Healing Ointment are some excellent options.
Some people like to use them overnight (slugging), which gives your skin time to absorb them fully.
If you prefer something less greasy, you can choose a cream, which has the second-highest amount of oil. Advanced Maximum Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid Complex, Oil-Free Moisturizer, Cerave Moisturizing Cream, and Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream are some excellent cream options to consider (see links below). Lotions, on the other hand, have the lowest amount of oil and may not be as effective for people with eczema.
My recommendations:
For best results, apply the moisturizer after taking a bath or shower using lukewarm water. Pat your skin dry and leave it slightly damp to lock in moisture. Apply the moisturizer within three minutes of getting out of the water. Soften the moisturizer by rubbing it between your hands, and then use your palms to smear a thick layer all over your skin. Apply it gently in simple downward strokes.
It's essential to moisturize your hands whenever you wash or get them wet. Keep moisturizer by each sink in the house so you don't forget. If you use prescription skin medicine, apply it before moisturizing.
When choosing a moisturizer, look for fragrance-free, perfume-free, and dye-free products. Unscented products may still have fragrances that can irritate your skin. Therefore, it's best to choose products marked "fragrance-free." Check the label for any ingredients that you know you're allergic to. Before using a new product, dab a pea-sized amount on the crook of your elbow or the inside of your wrist and wait for 24 to 48 hours to see if it causes any reaction before using it all over your body.
Applying moisturizer after bathing is important, but applying it consistently throughout the day is also important. Try to apply moisturizer at least twice a day, and carry a small container when you're on the go to ensure you can reapply as needed.
Remember, moisturizing is a key component of any skincare routine, especially for those with eczema or other skin conditions. By choosing the right moisturizer, applying it correctly, and taking additional steps to protect and hydrate your skin, you can help keep it healthy and radiant.
Disclosure: as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through product links on this page. Products are recommended because I suggest them to my own patients — the small commission never changes what I recommend.
Appointments available at Hillside Medical Clinic in Victoria and Kensington Medical Clinic in Burnaby.