The 12 Best Products For Eczema, According to Dermatologists

Anyone who has or knows someone with eczema knows how tricky it can be. According to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, it’s a common skin condition that affects roughly 30 percent of Americans. Yet keeping it from flaring up is an ongoing (but manageable) process.

“Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that makes skin dry, itchy, inflamed, and bumpy. It weakens the skin’s barrier, making it harder to retain moisture and protect against external elements,” board-certified dermatologist Anetta Reszko, MD, PhD, tells PS.

Seasonal weather changes can trigger eczema, with the wintertime being especially harsh, making skin more susceptible to becoming rough and dry. To an extent, the summer months can bring some much-needed relief to those who experience eczema. “In general, people’s eczema improves with increased sun exposure over the summer. However, some people flare with increased sweating,” says board-certified dermatologist Carmen Castilla, MD.

Despite the numerous challenges that come with having eczema, using the right over-the-counter products and avoiding your triggers can be a game changer in keeping flare-ups at bay.

“Individuals with eczema need to be cautious of what products they are using on their body — especially ones with harsher actives like glycolic acid and salicylic acid, fragrances, or essential oils. I recommend being extra mindful of retinoids, alcohol, and lanolin in skin-care formulations,” board-certified dermatologist Dendy Engelman, MD, says.

Though it’s advisable to visit a board-certified dermatologist to help determine an effective treatment plan (especially if you’re dealing with severe eczema), there are things you can do, and use, at home to help. We asked dermatologists to divulge their favorite over-the-counter products to incorporate into your skin-care routine to treat eczema. Keep reading for the best products for eczema, according to dermatologists.

Experts Featured in This Article

Anetta Reszko, MD, PhD, is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon.

Carmen Castilla, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist with New York Dermatology Group.

Dendy Engelman, MD, is a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon.

Britt Craiglow, MD, is a double-board certified dermatologist and pediatric dermatologist based in Connecticut.

Nazanin Saedi, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and clinical associate professor based in Philadelphia.

Suneel Chilukuri, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the owner of Refresh Dermatology in Houston.