I wanted to share a few thoughts I have on using moisturizers and lotions strategically when dealing with a skin condition like eczema. Eczema is the name for a group of inflammatory skin conditions that can cause itchiness, dry skin, scaly patches, blisters, and skin infections. There are multiple different types of eczema: atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, nummular eczema, seborrheic dermatitis and stasis dermatitis. Eczema can affect any age, gender, or genetic background.
The treatment of eczema is multifaceted! One type of treatment does not fit all. One of the best things that can be done to help maintain the health of the skin is using facial moisturizers or body lotions or oils regularly. I wanted to write down a few of my favorite tips on how to maximize the use of these types of products.
Moisturizers and lotions help to protect the top layer of our skin (stratum corneum) and maintain the integrity of the skin's acid mantle.
Apply body lotions and facial moisturizer within 5 minutes after getting out of the shower or bath. This will help to lock moisture in the skin, and prevent it from overly drying out.
If when you apply your lotion, cream, or oil it feels too heavy or sticky on the skin - do NOT wipe it off. Wait 3-5 minutes for the product to absorb first. Most of the product will absorb fully after several minutes. After a couple minutes if you still have excess, gently blot with a cotton rag or old t-shirt.
To treat eczema on the hands - moisturize hands every time that you wash them or get them wet.
If working outdoors in the elements in colder months, use products that are heavy and oil based, and wear gloves when possible to help protect the skin from extreme elemental shifts and to help maintain that layer of protective product you have on the skin.
For eczema on the face, consider using oils. I know the idea of using oils on the skin can be scary, but skin friendly oils like jojoba, rosehip seed, or calendula oil are nourishing and have a similar fat content to the oils that our own body produces.
As always, I hope these thoughts are helpful to someone. Eczema can be difficult to manage, and that is why working with a licensed esthetician who specializes in sensitive skin care management is helpful. We are trained in the use of active ingredients, products, and treatments that can help manage chronic skin conditions like eczema. If you have thoughts or additional questions please do not hesitate to reach out to me at guidedcompass@gmail.com
In Health,
Michal