Eczema is a skin condition that affects about 10% of Americans and is characterized by dryness, scaliness, redness, and irritation. People with eczema need to be careful about what they put on their skin to avoid triggering inflammation and flare-ups. Here are some details about eczema skin products, including positive and negative ingredients or materials:
Ingredients to Avoid:
- Fragrances: Fragrances can trigger eczema and irritate the skin.
- Essential oils: Essential oils can also irritate the skin and trigger eczema.
- Urea: Urea can be irritating and can contribute to damaging the acid mantle of the skin in atopic dermatitis (AD) .
- Lanolin: Lanolin can be irritating to some people with eczema.
- Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and retinol: These ingredients aid in exfoliation and anti-aging, but they are typically too abrasive and drying for those with eczema.
Positive Ingredients:
- Shea butter, glycerin, and lanolin: These moisturizing ingredients repair the skin and help it look healthier.
- Hyaluronic acid: It helps draw moisture from the air to your skin and can ease flaky, dry skin.
- Niacinamide: It can reduce redness from eczema by strengthening the skins natural barrier and boosting hydration.
- Petroleum jelly: It helps the skin hold water in and can help repair the skin barrier.
Its important to note that what works for one person with eczema may not work for another. Its best to get the advice of a dermatologist before trying a new product, especially if you have severe eczema. You can also try to choose products that contain the National Eczema Association (NEA) seal of acceptance, which includes a searchable list of accepted products.
