Eczema is a skin condition that affects millions of people. It causes dryness, redness, itching, and inflammation. Sometimes, the skin can even crack or bleed. Eczema is not just uncomfortable. It can also affect a person’s sleep, mood, and confidence.
Many people wonder what they can get to treat eczema or manage the symptoms. There is no permanent cure, but there are many things you can get to help. These include creams, medicines, lifestyle changes, and special products.
This article will explain what you can get for eczema. It will include over-the-counter treatments, prescription options, home care products, and natural remedies. It will also cover what to avoid and how to create a routine that helps your skin heal.
Over-the-Counter Treatments
Many people start with products they can buy without a prescription. These are found in drugstores, supermarkets, or online.
Moisturizers
Moisturizers are the most important product for eczema. They help lock in water and keep the skin barrier strong.
Types of moisturizers include:
- Creams: Thicker than lotion. Good for daily use.
- Ointments: Very thick and greasy. Great for very dry skin.
- Lotions: Lighter and easier to apply. Not always strong enough for eczema.
Look for fragrance-free and alcohol-free products. Good choices include petroleum jelly, Aquaphor, CeraVe, Vanicream, and Eucerin.
Anti-Itch Creams
Itching is one of the worst symptoms of eczema. Scratching makes the skin worse and can lead to infection.
You can get anti-itch creams that contain:
- Hydrocortisone (1%): A mild steroid that reduces redness and swelling
- Pramoxine: A numbing agent that stops itching
- Menthol or camphor: Cool the skin and reduce itchiness
Use these only on small areas and for a short time. Too much use can thin the skin.
Antihistamines
You can also take antihistamine pills to help with itching, especially at night. These include:
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
- Loratadine (Claritin)
- Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
These help calm the allergic response in your body and help you sleep better.
Prescription Treatments
If over-the-counter treatments are not enough, a doctor or dermatologist can prescribe stronger options.
Prescription Topical Steroids
These are stronger than hydrocortisone and reduce inflammation quickly.
Some common ones are:
- Triamcinolone
- Betamethasone
- Clobetasol
They come in different strengths and forms. A doctor will tell you how often and how long to use them. Long-term use should be avoided unless directed by your doctor.
Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors
These are non-steroid creams that also reduce inflammation. They are good for sensitive areas like the face, eyelids, or groin.
The most common are:
- Tacrolimus (Protopic)
- Pimecrolimus (Elidel)
They can cause a slight burning feeling when first applied. They are safe for long-term use and do not thin the skin.
PDE4 Inhibitor Cream
Crisaborole (Eucrisa) is a non-steroid cream used for mild to moderate eczema. It reduces inflammation and itching. It can be used on children as young as 2 years old.
Oral Medications
For very bad eczema, doctors may prescribe pills or injections.
These include:
- Corticosteroids (short-term use)
- Cyclosporine, methotrexate, or azathioprine (used to calm the immune system)
- JAK inhibitors like abrocitinib or upadacitinib
- Dupilumab (Dupixent): An injection given every two weeks. It blocks signals that cause inflammation. It is approved for adults and children over 6 months.
These treatments are usually used when eczema does not respond to creams alone.
Special Skin Care Products
Some products are made specifically to support people with eczema. They can be found in stores or online.
Gentle Cleansers
Regular soap can dry out your skin. People with eczema need gentle, soap-free cleansers.
Look for:
- Non-foaming cleansers
- Fragrance-free products
- Cleansers labeled for sensitive or eczema-prone skin
Some examples include Cetaphil, Aveeno Eczema Therapy cleanser, or CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser.
Bath Additives
Taking baths with special additives can soothe the skin.
You can try:
- Colloidal oatmeal (soothes and reduces itching)
- Baking soda (reduces itch and inflammation)
- Bleach baths (kills bacteria and reduces infection risk—only under medical advice)
Use warm, not hot, water. Soak for 10–15 minutes, then apply moisturizer right after drying off.
Eczema Gloves
People with hand eczema often benefit from wearing cotton gloves at night. These gloves help protect the skin and keep moisturizers in place. During the day, you can wear nitrile gloves while cleaning to avoid irritants.
Natural Remedies for Eczema
Some people find relief using natural or home remedies. These are not always backed by strong science but may help soothe symptoms.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps moisturize the skin and reduce itching. Use cold-pressed, virgin coconut oil on damp skin.
Sunflower Seed Oil
This oil helps improve the skin barrier and add moisture. Apply a small amount to clean skin.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera gel can cool and soothe irritated skin. Use only pure aloe vera with no added colors or alcohol.
Apple Cider Vinegar
This may help restore the skin’s natural acidity. Always dilute with water before using. Apply gently with a cotton ball, then rinse off.
Honey
Raw honey has healing properties. It can be used on small patches of eczema. Cover it with a dressing to keep it in place.
Always test a small area first. Natural products can still cause irritation in some people.
Things to Avoid
Some products and habits can make eczema worse. Avoiding these can prevent flare-ups.
Avoid:
- Fragranced skin products
- Harsh soaps or detergents
- Hot showers or baths
- Wearing rough fabrics like wool
- Scratching or rubbing the skin
- Stress, which can trigger flare-ups
- Allergens like dust, pollen, or pet dander
Switch to hypoallergenic products. Use a humidifier in dry weather. Wear soft clothing made of cotton or bamboo.
Dietary Supplements and Foods
There is no special eczema diet, but some people find relief by changing their food habits.
Supplements that may help include:
- Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil)
- Vitamin D
- Probiotics
Foods that may reduce inflammation:
- Fatty fish (salmon, sardines)
- Leafy greens
- Berries
- Nuts and seeds
Avoid foods that trigger your symptoms. Common food triggers include eggs, dairy, gluten, and soy. Keep a food diary to track changes.
Talk to a doctor before making big diet changes or starting new supplements.
Creating an Eczema Care Routine
A good skin care routine can help control eczema. Try to follow this routine every day:
- Use a gentle cleanser once daily.
- Take short, lukewarm showers or baths.
- Pat the skin dry with a soft towel.
- Apply moisturizer within 3 minutes of bathing.
- Use prescription or anti-itch creams as directed.
- Wear soft clothing and protect the skin.
- Avoid known triggers like soaps, fabrics, or stress.
- Get enough sleep and stay hydrated.
Keep your skin care products simple. Less is more when managing eczema.
When to See a Doctor
Some people can manage eczema on their own. Others need help from a doctor or dermatologist.
See a doctor if:
- Your eczema is painful, cracked, or bleeding
- Over-the-counter products are not working
- You have frequent infections
- Eczema is affecting your sleep or daily life
- You want to explore stronger treatments
Doctors can help you find the right mix of treatments. They may also run allergy tests or suggest seeing a skin specialist.
Conclusion
There are many things you can get for eczema. You can buy moisturizers, anti-itch creams, and gentle cleansers at any drugstore. If needed, you can get prescription creams, pills, or injections from your doctor. You can also try natural oils and soothing remedies at home.
Finding the right treatment takes time and patience. Eczema is different for everyone. What works for one person may not work for another.
The best plan is to keep your skin moisturized, avoid triggers, and treat flare-ups early. With the right products and care routine, it is possible to live comfortably and keep eczema under control.
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