These Eczema Moisturizers Deliver Quick, Visible Results
Eczema often manifests as dry, itchy patches that appear red and scaly. During flare-ups, discomfort can intensify, leaving the skin raw or sensitive to the touch. Its causes are complex, tied to immune and environmental triggers, but understanding the condition is the first step toward effective care.
Because eczema creams can vary significantly in their formulations, it's often challenging to determine which ingredients are actually doing the heavy lifting. We turned to Dr. Hallie McDonald, board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of ERLY Skincare, to spotlight the best over-the-counter moisturizers that consistently come to the rescue. With extensive experience treating everything from eczema and acne to psoriasis, alopecia, and skin cancer, Dr. McDonald knows exactly what to look for (and what to avoid) when it comes to tackling this stubborn skin condition.
'When managing eczema flare-ups, I generally recommend moisturizers that are rich in hyaluronic acid, ceramide, and niacinamide,' says Dr. McDonald. 'These ingredients help restore the skin, reduce inflammation, and replenish moisture.' She also notes that product texture plays a vital role: 'Ointments and thick creams tend to be more effective than lotions because they form a stronger barrier on the skin. Vaseline or Aquaphor can be particularly helpful for eczema on the hands and feet.'
When asked which skin care brands Dr. McDonald trusts most for managing eczema, she emphasized the importance of clinical integrity and gentle ingredients. 'I consistently trust and recommend CeraVe, Eucerin, ERLY, Vanicream, and Aveeno,' she explains. 'These brands are committed to hypoallergenic, clinically backed formulations, and they reliably deliver fragrance-free, therapeutic-grade products. I find them to be gentle enough for sensitive skin, yet effective for long-term eczema management.'
After testing countless brands and taking into account the clinical guidance of Dr. Hallie McDonald, I've narrowed it down to the top 10 dermatologist-approved products that provide reliable relief during a flare-up.
This cream, backed by the National Eczema Association, is one of my top choices for managing minor flare-ups on my face. I apply it to dry patches a few times a day for effective relief from irritation and itching. With no fragrances or parabens, it's gentle and works perfectly for sensitive skin.
Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, shea butter
Size: 6.76 fl oz
An Amazon reviewer says: 'This stuff is a miracle! A steroid cream can help with immediate itching, but after about six hours, you need something that actually solves the problem, and this does exactly that. I ended up using it to treat the same areas I had initially tried addressing with a moisturizing steroid cream: on my face, behind my ears, and in my armpits. It completely relieves both the itch and the rash.'
Anyone who has dealt with eczema knows this classic cream is a must-have in the medicine cabinet. The generous size means you don't have to use it sparingly, and it's a reliable, affordable option that you can always keep stocked.
Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, ceramide-3, licochalcone
Size: 8 oz
An Amazon reviewer says: 'This lotion has soothed away the itching and cracked skin, so my skin feels like skin again. It's a nice and thick lotion which makes my hands feel pampered, and the oatmeal has really reduced what was quite severe itching.'
If you're looking for a daily cream with a non-greasy formula and long-lasting hydration, this dermatologist-approved moisturizer is a great choice. It's suitable for both face and body, making it ideal for those who prefer a simple skin care routine.
Key ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, dimethicone, petrolatum
Size: 16 oz
An Ulta reviewer says: 'Finding a moisturizer is hellish for me. They either leave me oily and breaking out, or I have to sit on the bathroom floor for ten minutes waiting for my face to stop burning. This is the only moisturizer I have ever found that doesn't produce these results. It is also very cheap—lots of bang for your buck.'
Aveeno is known for its gentle formulas that quickly soothe irritated skin, and this deeply nourishing cream includes colloidal oatmeal for fast-acting relief.
Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, ceramide-3
Size: 7.3 oz
An Amazon reviewer says: 'This is probably one of the best eczema lotions on the market. I had terrible Eczema in my T-zone on my face, and this was the only product out there that got it under control for me. The cream is nice and thick; it goes on smoothly and evenly.'
This night moisturizer from ERLY, a skin care brand founded by Dr. Hallie McDonald, is a silky, soothing cream formulated for sensitive skin. Add it to your nighttime routine to wake up with skin that feels deeply hydrated and refreshed.
Key ingredients: Vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, biotin, peptides
Size: 1.7 fl oz
An Erly reviewer says: 'I am in my 60's and have had a very difficult time with dry skin. My dermatologist recommended so many products that did not work due to reactions to the chemicals. I have not had a single problem using this and am so thankful!'
Ideal for sensitive skin, this moisturizing cream is free from harsh ingredients, and gentle enough for daily use to keep skin soft and smooth.
Key ingredients: Petrolatum, sorbitol
An Amazon reviewer says: 'I'm still stunned by how amazing this cream is. When I came across this and read the reviews, I decided to try it. It's very moisturizing, and it does not leave your skin looking or feeling greasy. It absorbs very nicely into the skin.'
This intensely nourishing treatment from Murad combines ground cherry blend to calm itch and irritation, while colloidal oatmeal delivers fast, lasting relief.
Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, ground cherry blend
An Amazon reviewer says: 'This product is pricey but it works like a dream to sooth delicate skin and keep irritation away. I will always keep it on hand.'
I like to keep a calming balm in my purse for emergencies, and this one has saved me more times than I can count. The pump application makes it quick and easy to use. Just dab it on your hands during winter outings or apply it all over for quick relief.
Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, ceramide complex, a blend of lipids, peptides and vitamins
Size: 1.7 oz
An Amazon reviewer says: 'Basic moisturizers either haven't worked well on my facial eczema or made my skin react. This actually works. It's a little pricey, but easy to use sparingly.'
Key ingredients: Squalane, ceramides, glacial glycoprotein
An Amazon reviewer says: 'This is hands down one of the best moisturizers I've used. It's super lightweight, absorbs quickly, and leaves my skin feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated all day. I love that it doesn't feel greasy and works well under makeup. A little goes a long way, and it's gentle enough for sensitive skin. Worth every penny!'
This rich, occlusive treatment is a must-have for severely dry, irritated skin. It delivers deep hydration while shielding compromised skin from itch and further discomfort.
Key ingredients: Aloe vera, squalene, bisabolol, petrolatum
A SkinCeuticals reviewer says: 'I've been using this Hydra Balm for two years now and absolutely love it-I couldn't live without it! It helps care for my dry skin, especially in areas around my face and lips. I would highly recommend this product; it lasts a long time as well.'
Keep this in your bag for on-the-go relief when hands or feet feel painfully dry or on the verge of cracking. I also use it on my elbows when they're especially irritated. This ultra-hydrating cream absorbs quickly, leaving skin soft, soothed, and comfortable all day.
Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, ceramides, lipids, peptides, vitamins
Size: 3 fl oz
A Sephora reviewer says: 'The only hand cream that actually improved my eczema! I no longer have to use steroid creams to soothe any flare-ups. In cold and dry climates, my hands usually crack and bleed, regardless of the non-steroidal product I use. After using this cream for 3-4 days, my eczema improved significantly. I'm no longer embarrassed about my hands.'
For a soothing treatment that targets itch, try Avène's Calming Relief Balm. Formulated with colloidal oatmeal and ceramides, it helps calm irritation, strengthen the skin barrier, and replenish essential lipids.
Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, ceramides, ad-rsyl
Size: 3.3 fl oz
An Amazon reviewer says: 'During the winter months, I always have trouble with dry, itchy patches on my hands. Using a product free of dyes and fragrances is essential to my well-being. This Avène lotion fits my needs nicely. In my opinion, the thickness falls between that of a lotion and a cream. It both calms and hydrates my needy skin. I like that it came with a safety seal over the opening and that the squeezable container is just the right size to carry in my handbag.'
Dr. Hallie McDonald is a board-certified dermatologist based in Texas, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of skin conditions.
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, commerce writer Laura Tarafa consulted dermatologists to identify the best moisturizers for eczema. Drawing on expert clinical guidance and hands-on testing of several products, she curated a list of top recommendations.
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