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The Best Lotions For Eczema, According To Dermatologists
Since I was born, I've had eczema all over my body and face. Eczema, a form of dermatitis, is a common skin concern affecting roughly 31 million people in the U.S. Alone — about 10% of the population, according to the National Eczema Association (NEA). The condition can be anywhere from mild to severe, but it can be cumbersome trying to navigate ways to soothe the itchy, dry skin it causes. Trust me, my entire journey throughout these past 23 years has been full of trial and error to see which moisturizers can improve my eczema and minimize its effects.
I spoke to dermatologists to learn all about this condition, what causes it and, most importantly, what you should look for in a lotion. I also rounded up expert-recommended and highly rated eczema lotions that can help.
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To pick the best eczema lotions, I considered the following factors based on my experts' guidance:
I found the best lotions safe for eczema-prone skin. Each product (except for the Eucerin treatment) has the National Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance. Some of the products were recommended by experts, while others were chosen based on expert advice about what to look for. I also included options I regularly use to treat my eczema.
Best overall: CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion$13.68
$14.99
Amazon
$15.99
Ulta
$15.29
Target
What we like
This lotion from Cerave is a favorite among my experts because it has ceramides, which play a key role in protecting the skin barrier. "This lotion has a unique blend of high-quality moisturizing agents, including ceramides, hyaluronic acid and glycerin," says Dr. Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, a dermatologist at Khrom Dermatology.
Cerave's lotion is also great for those with an active lifestyle or worry about their pores clogging. I use this lotion on my face and body every morning during the hot summer months, as well as days when I plan on going to the gym. It's so lightweight that it's not melting off my face but still gets the job done by repairing and maintaining my skin without causing irritation or worsening it.
Key ingredients: Ceramides and hyaluronic acidNational Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance: YesFragrance-free: Yes
I notice that this thin, lightweight moisturizer quickly absorbs into my eczema-prone skin. Courtesy Bianca Alvarez, NBC Select Reporter Best for flare-ups: Eucerin Eczema Relief Flare-up Treatment $12.79
Amazon
$16.59
Target
$16.99
CVS Pharmacy
What we like
Something to note
This Eucerin cream works to soothe irritated skin and provides a cooling sensation, which can help calm ongoing flare-ups, says Kazlouskaya. Suitable for all eczema-prone skin types, this rich and cooling option is also safe for children and babies aged 3 months and older, according to Eucerin.
Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, ceramides and licorice root extractNational Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance: n/aFragrance-free: Yes
Best value: Aveeno Eczema Therapy Daily Moisturizing Cream with Oatmeal$19.97
$26.58
Amazon
$21.99
Target
$25.49
CVS Pharmacy
What we like
This cream comes recommended by Kazlouskay because it has eczema-soothing ingredients like avena sativa, or oat kernel extract, which is an occlusive ingredient (meaning it helps the skin hold onto moisture). The hero ingredient also plumps up the skin and restores its natural barrier, according to Dr. Elaine Kung, a board-certified dermatologist in New York. Plus, the cream reduces any dryness and redness, according to the brand.
Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal and ceramidesNational Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance: YesFragrance-free: Yes
Best cream: Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream$13.56
$16.43
Amazon
$13.56
Walmart
$17.39
Target
What we like
Something to note
To treat my dry, sensitive and eczema-prone skin, I apply this thick moisturizer every day on my face and body. My skin instantly feels more moisturized, appears less dull and all dry, itchy patches disappear.
"Often when I don't know what skin care products may be irritating my patients, I advise them to stop using everything they have at home and substitute it with the Vanicream line of products until we can figure out what their irritants are," says Kung. This is because Vanicream products, including this cream, are free of dyes, parabens and formaldehyde releasers. So, if you're looking for something to re-introduce hydration back into your skin without further aggravating it, this is a gentle option, says Kung.
Key ingredients: Water, petrolatum and sorbitolNational Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance: YesFragrance-free: Yes
I love how the thick cream creates a protective layer on her skin that adds and maintains moisture. It also heals the cracked and irritated eczema flare-ups I occasionally have. Courtesy Bianca Alvarez, NBC Select Reporter Best absorbing: Bioderma Atoderm Intensive Balm $26.59
$27.99
Amazon
$34.49
Target
$27.99
CVS Photo
What we like
Something to note
This non-greasy balm contains ceramides and vitamin C and is great for soothing itchy skin on both your face and body throughout the day, says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Gabriela Soza. "It also helps repair the skin barrier with a combination of humectants and occlusive moisturizers," she says. Unlike other balms that tend to come in a tub, this one has a pump for easy and mess-free application.
Key ingredients: Glycerin and ceramidesNational Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance: YesFragrance-free: Yes
Best for soothing: Cetaphil Restoraderm Soothing Moisturizer$14.97
$18.99
Amazon
$18.29
Target
$14.99
$18.99
Walmart
What we like
Something to note
Kazlouskaya is a fan of Cetaphil's moisturizer because it contains colloidal oatmeal, which restores the skin's moisture barrier and reduces the uncomfortable side effects of flare-ups. The formula is hypoallergenic and is also free of parabens and steroids, according to Cetaphil.
Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, Glycerin, hyaluronic acid and ceramidesNational Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance: YesFragrance-free: Yes
Best for sensitive skin: Avene XeraCalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Balm$36.00
Amazon
$36.00
Avene
$36.00
Dermstore
What we like
This formula is so gentle that it's safe for newborn skin, says Soza. "As a mother, this is huge and what I use to hydrate my baby's eczema-prone skin," she says. The pump keeps the balm sterile as you use it, so it doesn't need preservatives to prolong its shelf life, according to the brand. This is great for those with sensitive skin: Preservatives in skin care products can sometimes trigger allergic contact dermatitis, says Soza.
Key ingredients: Avène thermal spring water, glycerin, cer-omega and I-moduliaNational Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance: YesFragrance-free: Yes
Best for dry skin: Skinfix eczema+ Extra Strength Body CreamWhat we like
This rich cream combines 2% colloidal oatmeal and sweet almond oil to help sensitive, dry and eczema-prone skin, says Dr. Mamina Turegano, a triple board-certified dermatologist, internist and dermatopathologist. This moisturizer not only hydrates the skin but helps reduce itchiness and irritation, according to the brand.
Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, allantoin, aloe leaf juice, glycerin and shea butterNational Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance: YesFragrance-free: Yes
Best for babies: Baby Dove Soothing Cream Lotion$8.50
$8.99
Amazon
$12.99
Target
$9.97
Walmart
What we like
This thick, non-greasy formula is fit for newborns and adults alike, according to the brand. It's free of common eczema irritants like sulfates, dyes and parabens, and uses colloidal oatmeal and prebiotic moisturizers to strengthen the skin barrier and minimize itchiness and dryness, according to Dove. It's also highly rated, with a 4.7-star average rating from over 3,200 reviews on Amazon.
Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, glycerin and shea butterNational Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance: YesFragrance-free: Yes
Best for rough skin: La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+M Triple Repair Body Moisturizer$19.99
Amazon
$24.49
Target
$19.99
Ulta
What we like
This moisturizer comes recommended by Kazlouskaya and Mamina because of its hydrating combination of ingredients. One of the many ingredients in the formula is thermal water, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, says Mamina. You can use this cream on both your face and body, and it's suitable for everyone of all ages, including those as young as two weeks old, says Mamina.
Key ingredients: La Roche-Posay thermal spring water, ceramides, shea butter, niacinamide and glycerinNational Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance: YesFragrance-free: Yes
Best ointment: Theraplex Eczema Therapy$21.59
$28.99
Amazon
$23.99
Theraplex
What we like
This Theraplex option has a combination of petrolatum and colloidal oatmeal and, as a whole, has a minimal number of ingredients, making it great for those with very sensitive skin, says Mamina. The cream, which is designed for eczema, dry skin and dermatitis, protects the skin barrier, soothes the skin and hydrates it all at once, according to the brand.
Key ingredients: Petrolatum, cyclomethicone, ozokerite wax and colloidal oatmealNational Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance: YesFragrance-free: Yes
Best for itchiness: Aveeno Eczema Therapy Nighttime Itch Relief Balm$19.97
Amazon
$25.49
CVS Pharmacy
$19.97
Walmart
What we like
This balm is a favorite among Soza's patients because of its soothing ingredients like colloidal oatmeal. The thick balm helps moisturize your skin throughout the night while also relieving itchiness, according to the brand. You can also keep your tub in the fridge because the cooling effect will help soothe irritated and itchy skin, says Soza.
Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, glycerin and ceramidesNational Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance: YesFragrance-free: Yes
Best splurge: GladSkin Eczema CreamWhat we like
If you're looking for a dual-purpose moisturizer for the face and body, consider this option recommended by Kazlouskaya. This cream has Endolysin SA, which is "a small protein that fights 'bad' bacteria on the skin and balances the microbiome, helping to reduce itching in patients with eczema," says Kazlouskaya.
Key ingredients: Glycerin, petrolatum, mineral oil and colloidal oatmealNational Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance: YesFragrance-free: Yes
Best balm: La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5$18.99
Amazon
$18.99
Ulta
$20.99
Target
What we like
Something to note
This balm moisturizes and soothes irritated, chafed, cracked and dry skin, and protects it from further irritation with the help of hydrating ingredients like panthenol, glycerin and shea butter, says Mamina. This option is suitable for babies as young as a week old, children and adults, and it can be used as a spot treatment on your face and body, according to the brand.
Key ingredients: Vitamin B5, shea butter, madecassoside and La Roche-Posay thermal spring waterNational Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance: YesFragrance-free: Yes
Best for skin barrier care: First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Intense Hydration$34.99
Amazon
$48.00
Ulta
$38.00
Sephora
What we like
This thick cream helps combat dryness and irritation for those with eczema-prone, sensitive and damaged skin, according to the brand. It has a combination of ingredients that focus on treating eczema, repairing the skin barrier and moisturizing and calming the skin, according to First Aid Beauty. This moisturizer has a 4.6-star average review from 4,500 reviews at Ulta, and you can use it on both your face and body.
Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, shea butter, allantoin and glycerinNational Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance: YesFragrance-free: n/a
Best for all ages: Eczema Honey Skin-Soothing Cream$29.94
$34.99
Amazon
$36.99
Target
$29.95
Ulta
What we like
Something to note
This thick moisturizer, which has a 4.1-star average rating from over 2,700 reviews on Amazon and is suitable for all skin types, can temporarily relieve any discomfort associated with eczema, including irritation and itchiness, according to the brand. Apply a small amount on your skin and massage it until it melts, allowing it to condition your skin and create a moisturizing, protective barrier.
If you have a nut sensitivity, consider Eczema Honey's Nut-Free Skin-Soothing Cream, which functions in the same manner as the original formula and is also approved by the NEA.
Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, organic honey and beeswaxNational Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance: Yes
Though eczema can be finicky to treat, lotions can help make the condition more manageable, experts say. There are two main formula types to look out for: ones that reduce and soothe symptoms of eczema (like inflammation, dryness and itchiness) and ones that work to repair and maintain the skin barrier.
Types of moisturizersIf you suffer from eczema, you'll want to opt for thicker moisturizers, including creams, balms and ointments, says Soza. Ointments and balms will be more occlusive, meaning they retain water and minimize transepidermal water loss. This is especially important for those dealing with eczema who may need to repair the damaged skin barrier and soothe irritated skin, says Soza. Options with a more liquid-like consistency may not be as hydrating as thicker, creamier moisturizers because they tend to have a higher alcohol content, says Soza.
IngredientsOne common ingredient among products geared toward healing eczema is colloidal oatmeal. The ingredient, which is made of ground-up oat kernels, helps relieve the common side effects of eczema, such as inflammation and itchiness, as well as keep your skin barrier intact to prevent future damage and moisture loss. One study found that even low amounts of colloidal oatmeal helped soothe inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier among eczema patients.
Other ingredients to look for include humectants like hyaluronic acid, glycerin and panthenol that work to attract and hold water in the skin, says Kazlouskaya. You'll also want to find moisturizers with emollients like butters, oils and ceramides can also help make the skin smoother by filling in the "gaps" between skin cells, says Kazlouskaya. These ingredients are ideal for inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis because they can help relieve itchiness, dryness and scaling on the skin.
To strengthen your skin barrier, look for occlusive ingredients like lanolin, squalane and petrolatum jelly because they will help create a film on the skin's surface and prevent transepidermal water loss, experts say.
Just as important as what's inside an eczema lotion is what's not in it. Avoid irritants, allergens, solvents, surfactants and sensitizing preservatives if you're battling eczema, which can all trigger a flare-up, says Kung. Specifically, the National Eczema Organization recommends avoiding products containing fragrances (a common contact allergen), essential oils and plant extracts (which can lead to skin rashes), and ethanol (or alcohol, which can cause drying, stinging or burning in people with sensitive skin).
SeasonWhen choosing a product for your eczema-prone skin, keep in mind the time of year. "While lotions are good for summer and hot weather, thicker, richer textures such as creams, ointments and balms should be used in the winter time," says Kazlouskaya. And if moisturizing alone doesn't help control your eczema, you may find it helpful to visit your dermatologist.
What is eczema?
"Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that, in its mildest form, causes redness, itching, irritability and dry skin," says Dr. Elaine Kung , dermatologist and founder of Future Bright Dermatology. "For more severe forms of eczema, the skin can weep, blister, scale, crust or harden."
There are seven types of eczema, some more common than others (like atopic dermatitis and contact dermatitis). Each type of eczema has its unique form of treatment, but in all cases, the condition isn't contagious. Make sure to consult your dermatologist before trying any lotions for symptom relief.
What causes eczema?
Eczema results from a complex interplay between a person's genetics and their environment, says Kung. "Eczema involves an overactive immune response to environmental triggers like pollen, sun exposure and prolonged exposure to hot water," she says. It doesn't help if your skin barrier (the outermost layer of skin responsible for shielding the skin against such factors) isn't in tip-top shape. "An impaired skin barrier makes people more susceptible to these environmental irritants and allergens," says Kung.
Extreme weather conditions can also trigger or worsen eczema. Extremely hot or cold temperatures can irritate and weaken the skin barrier, making it less apt to protect your skin and lock in moisture, experts say. This also applies to water temperature, so stick to lukewarm water when you bathe or shower (versus piping hot or freezing cold).
Some research suggests that eczema's genetic component is connected to other inflammatory conditions. Studies have found that atopic dermatitis (one form of eczema) is linked to other conditions like asthma, allergies, and hay fever, according to the NEA . This means that if you have eczema, you may be at a greater risk of developing one of these conditions and vice versa (but not in all cases).
How do you apply an eczema lotion?
Generally, moisturizers help skin retain moisture, so they are most effective when you apply them on damp skin after a shower, says Kung. That being said, you should also treat dry, irritable, cracked skin as often as needed — applying a lotion shouldn't just be limited to post-shower.
How do you help prevent eczema breakouts?
How can you keep your skin barrier intact so that it can actually perform its skin-protecting duties and keep eczema at bay? For one, keep exfoliation, especially physical exfoliation, to a minimum. Products that fall into the category of physical exfoliation include cleansing scrubs with solid particulates, mechanical facial brushes, sonic devices and micro-exfoliating rollers, says Kung. While these may remove the top layer of dull-looking skin, they can be too abrasive and may cause more irritation, she says.
Chemical exfoliants (including those that have alpha-hydroxy acids like lactic and glycolic acid, and beta-hydroxy acids like salicylic acid) should also be kept to a minimum. If you're eczema-prone, aim for exfoliating acids in lower concentrations (under 8%) and use them no more than a few times a week, experts say.
What are other eczema treatments available over the counter?
Aside from applying OTC creams, balms and ointments, your dermatologist may suggest a bath treatment like the Aveeno soothing Oatmeal Bath Treatment or wet wraps. Wet wrap therapy is when fabric wraps or gauze are soaked in water and applied to eczema areas after once is finished bathing, moisturizing and applying medication, according to the National Eczema Association. "While wet wraps can be annoying to commit to, I have seen near miracles thanks to consistent use, and they can make a significant impact in less than a few days," says Soza.
If other OTC options are not helping or are making your eczema worse, consult with your board-certified dermatologist for a different treatment route, which may include a prescription product if necessary, says Soza.
At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
I am an associate reporter covering skin care, hair care and gift guides, including recent stories on the best neck creams and shampoos for dry hair. For this story, I interviewed dermatologists, shared their recommendations and researched highly rated eczema lotions that met their guidance.
Catch up on NBC Select's in-depth coverage of personal finance, tech and tools, wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.
Is It Nummular Eczema Or Ringworm?
Ringworm and nummular eczema both cause circular rashes on your body. Nummular eczema is much more widespread and can cause more symptoms.
Nummular eczema (dermatitis) and ringworm are both skin conditions that can cause discoloration, itchiness, and other symptoms. People sometimes confuse these conditions because they can both cause circular rashes on the skin.
Knowing the difference can help ensure you pursue the correct treatment.
Learn more about the causes, risk factors, and treatments of nummular eczema and ringworm.
Though both skin conditions may cause discoloration and itchy, scaly skin, some symptoms can differ between nummular eczema and ringworm.
Nummular eczema can cause the following additional symptoms:
Ringworm doesn't cause as many symptoms as nummular eczema. Most notably, the condition appears as discolored rings along the skin. It's common to have just one spot of ringworm, while nummular eczema often has multiple patches.
Ringworm is sometimes mistaken for forms of eczema and other skin conditions, like psoriasis. Unlike nummular eczema, the affected areas don't vary in color, and the patches don't burn and sometimes don't even itch.
Nummular eczema and ringworm also have different causes and risk factors.
Nummular eczemaThe cause of nummular eczema is unknown. It tends to develop after an injury to the skin, such as a scrape or cut. There are also several risk factors that may play a part, including:
Though it can occur at any age, nummular eczema is most common in men over 50 years, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Women are at higher risk in their teens and young adult years.
RingwormDespite the name, ringworm isn't caused by worms. It's caused by a fungal infection. The condition is also called tinea corporis.
This type of fungal infection can be passed between people. Sharing hygiene products or bathing tools and going to public places like swimming pools can increase the risk.
You can get ringworm from infected animals, especially cats. You may also get it from gardening in soil that has the fungus. There isn't always a way to identify the fungus until you've been exposed and started having symptoms.
Ringworm can occur in people of all ages. Children may be at higher risk because of accidental poor hygiene choices, and people who spend a lot of time in gyms and public swimming areas may also be at higher risk.
You'll need to see a doctor for a diagnosis of either condition.
It's best to have nummular eczema diagnosed by a dermatologist. A doctor specializing in skin conditions (dermatologist) or even a primary care doctor can help determine a treatment plan and rule out other conditions.
Nummular eczema is diagnosed with a physical exam. A doctor can usually make a diagnosis by looking at the skin. Nummular eczema is most prominent in these areas of the body:
If you have open sores within any of the rashes, a doctor may take a sample to check for an infection. This is especially important if your symptoms look like ringworm.
A sample can help them determine whether you have a staph infection caused by eczema or a fungal infection related to ringworm.
Discolored and circular rashes on the skin are a telltale sign of ringworm, but a doctor may also test a sample to confirm. They'll look for signs of a fungal infection. If the fungal test is negative, then you don't have ringworm.
Once you have an accurate diagnosis, a doctor can explain your treatment options.
Nummular eczemaTreating nummular eczema depends on the severity of the condition. Lifestyle measures are sometimes enough to help clear the skin. The following tips can often help:
If your symptoms are severe, lifestyle measures may not be enough to clear up this type of eczema. One or more of the following medical treatments may be needed:
Ringworm may be treated with different types of antifungals, particularly if it affects the scalp. Oral antifungals, such as griseofulvin (Grifulvin V, Gris-Peg), may be taken by mouth. A doctor may also prescribe topical antifungal ointments.
Some antifungal ointments are also available over the counter, such as those containing the active ingredients ketoconazole and clotrimazole. These include Lotrimin AF, Cruex, and Desenex. These are usually sufficient for treating ringworm of the skin.
Ringworm shouldn't be treated with topical corticosteroids (as nummular eczema is) as these can make ringworm worse.
Ringworm may also be managed and prevented through changes to your personal hygiene routine. The following habits can be helpful:
Nummular eczema may take longer to treat than ringworm does. It may clear up within a year, though there's a risk that it could return.
Patches and sores on the lower body can take longer to clear up, and some people experience scarring. Compared to other forms of eczema, nummular eczema doesn't cause lasting issues for many people.
For ringworm, most people see improvements after just a few days of treatment. Ringworm isn't usually a recurring problem, but it may come back if you don't make changes in personal hygiene.
How can I tell the difference between eczema and fungus?You can tell the difference between eczema and fungus by paying attention to the most prominent symptoms. Eczema typically presents as a flat rash, whereas a fungal infection causes raised areas of the skin.
Why do I suddenly have nummular eczema?You may suddenly have nummular eczema due to several factors, such as an insect bite, dry skin, a chemical burn, or trauma to the skin.
What mimics nummular eczema?Ringworm can sometimes mimic nummular eczema, as the two skin conditions share multiple symptoms. However, nummular eczema is much more widespread.
Ringworm and nummular eczema can both result in circular rashes on the body. However, nummular eczema can be much more widespread and cause more symptoms, such as multiple discolored patches and burning sensations.
A dermatologist can help diagnose the skin condition by performing a skin analysis. If you have any open sores, they may take a sample to check for an infection and for ringworm.
What Is Weeping Eczema?
Weeping eczema happens when your skin has eczema sores or blisters that leak clear or yellowish fluid. It's a common problem among people with eczema. Any type of eczema can become inflamed and weep, and your symptoms can depend on what type of eczema you have.
Weeping eczema happens when your skin has eczema sores or blisters that leak clear or yellowish fluid. It's a common problem among people with eczema. Any type of eczema can become inflamed and weep, and your symptoms can depend on what type of eczema you have. (Photo Credit: Dr P. Marazzi/Science Source)
With weeping eczema, the first thing you'll notice is wetness on your skin that dries into a yellow or orange crust. Your overall eczema symptoms are also likely to get worse. Your skin might feel more dry, swollen, or itchy than usual. This can happen anywhere on your body, but is most likely in places where your skin bends (inside your elbow, behind your knees, or on the front of your neck).
There are many symptoms of weeping eczema. You might have common signs, including:
People with severe weeping eczema might also notice:
Weeping eczema can be caused by inflammation or an infection. When your skin is inflamed, it causes the blood vessels to dilate and release serum. The serum eventually reaches the surface of your skin, causing wetness.
While weeping eczema is not always caused by an infection, it often is. Eczema causes skin to become dry and itchy. Very dry skin can crack, or you might scratch yourself, causing the skin to break. Secondary infections can enter the skin through these openings, and cause weeping eczema. There are different types of secondary infections that can trigger fluid leakage, including:
Bacterial infections
When bacteria get through your outermost layer of skin, they can infect your eczema and trigger your immune system to respond. Staphylococcus aureus (known as staph) is the most common type of bacteria that leads to a secondary infection with eczema. Staph-infected eczema can itch and change color, becoming darker or red, with a pale orange sheen. The infected area may weep fluid that forms a crust on the skin when it dries.
Fungal infections
Everyone has fungi living on their skin. Sometimes, fungi can penetrate the skin and cause infections. There are two fungal infections that often affect people with eczema, candida and ringworm. Candida is a type of yeast that lives in underarms, the groin, and around the neck in children. Ringworm is caused by molds and leaves red, ring-shaped patches on the skin. Both of these infections can cause weeping eczema.
Viral infections
The herpes simplex virus, which causes cold sores, can also infect eczema. When this happens, it can spread quickly into a serious viral infection called eczema herpeticum, which can include clusters of weeping sores.
Is weeping eczema contagious?
You can't spread eczema or weeping eczema to other people. But if your weeping eczema is paired with a secondary infection, you could spread that to others.
Eczema can become infected by a type of bacteria that's resistant to antibiotics, known as methicillin-resistant Staph. Aureus or MRSA. This "superbug" can spread through skin contact or surfaces that have come into contact with MRSA, like bedding, towels, faucets, and door handles.
Eczema herpeticum can also spread through direct contact with the skin or hard surfaces.
If you believe your eczema is weeping, call your doctor right away. If you have an infection, quick treatment can help you get the issue under control and lessen any symptoms.
When you go to your doctor's appointment, they'll want to confirm that you have eczema first. They'll look over your skin for signs of the skin condition. They may also want to do blood tests, a skin biopsy, a bacterial or viral culture, or allergy tests to ensure your symptoms are from eczema.
Once your health care team has confirmed you have weeping eczema, they'll want to treat it. Your therapy will depend on what caused the disorder. Your doctor might suggest you use:
Antihistamines. You can get these drugs in pill form over-the-counter or as a prescription. Many people use them to treat allergies. They can also lessen itchiness from eczema.
Corticosteroids. These are topical medications that can treat itchiness and swelling. Your doctor may also prescribe an oral steroid for eczema. Corticosteroids work by lowering the production of chemicals that lead to inflammation. This will lessen tissue damage in your body. These drugs reduce your immune system's activity, which will also lead to less tissue damage.
Immunosuppressants. With eczema, your immune system is overactive. These drugs lower your body's immune response and in turn, lessen inflammation.
You may need different treatment if other infections are causing your weeping eczema, including:
Antibiotics. If you have a bacterial infection with weeping eczema, your doctor may prescribe an oral antibiotic or topical cream to apply to your skin.
Antifungal creams. If a fungal infection has caused weeping eczema, your doctor may prescribe an antifungal cream to apply directly to the affected area.
Antiviral medicines. If you have eczema herpeticum, you may need to be admitted to the hospital for intravenous therapy. Your doctor might give you an antiviral medication, such as aciclovir, through an IV.
If you treat your weeping eczema right away, it should go away within 2 weeks. In really bad cases, it could cause scarring. If you don't treat the issue, it can cause more serious problems and lead to other infections.
How to dry up weeping eczema?
Wrapping the skin in wet bandages, especially overnight, can help relieve itching and dry up weeping eczema. Apply an emollient or moisturizer before wrapping your skin. Your doctor may suggest applying a steroid cream to your eczema rash before wrapping. This makes the steroid cream stronger and should only be done if recommended by your doctor.
To completely treat your weeping eczema, you'll need medication. But to ease the symptoms, you can also try home remedies such as:
Colloidal oatmeal
Colloidal oatmeal is a ready-to-use, FDA-approved soothing agent. You can take an oatmeal bath to ease symptoms of weeping eczema.
Diluted bleach baths
You can also try a diluted bleach bath. Use a small amount of bleach in your bath to kill bacteria on your skin. This can help lessen itching, redness, and rough skin. Be careful to only use this method in moderation and only bathe for 10-15 minutes. Too much bleach can dry out your skin. Talk to your doctor about the safest way to add this to your routine before you try it at home.
Vitamins and supplements
These can help lower inflammation or help overall eczema symptoms. It may be helpful to add vitamin D, vitamin B12, and fatty acids (like evening primrose and black currant seed) to your routine.
Probiotics
These are combinations of live bacteria or yeasts that are naturally present in your body. Probiotics are good bacteria that help keep you healthy. They can also help fight off bad bacteria. Some experts believe that topical probiotics can help ease the intensity of eczema symptoms, however more research is needed.
Oils
Some oils can lower inflammation, protect, and restore your skin. Try coconut, olive, or sunflower seed oil to help with eczema symptoms.
If you treat your weeping eczema right away, it should go away within 2 weeks. In really bad cases, it could cause scarring. If you don't treat the issue, it can cause more serious problems and lead to other infections.
Stress management exercises
Mental health conditions, including stress, can make eczema worse. Stress triggers a physical reaction in the body, such as inflammation, a cause of eczema. By limiting and managing stress, you may be able to curb weeping eczema.
Break the itch-scratch cycle
Eczema itch has to do with nerve endings, but it can also become something you do out of habit, without realizing it. You can get stuck in a cycle of itching and scratching, damaging your skin and worsening eczema.
Keeping your nails trimmed, avoiding irritating fabrics and fragrances, and moisturizing your skin twice daily can help. If that doesn't work, then you may need a prescription steroid cream. A nonsteroidal cream called a topical calcineurin inhibitor (TCI) that controls your body's immune response can also help prevent itching. Managing stress may help you control unconscious or habitual itching.
If you have eczema, there are things you can do to avoid infections and weeping. For the best outlook:
Keep a consistent skin care routine. Choose shampoos and washes that are free from dyes and perfumes. Moisturize your skin with an emollient cream twice a day.
Take a timeout. Lower your stress levels to prevent flares. Add more relaxing activities into your schedule or practice meditation and mindfulness.
Listen to your doctor. Follow your health care team's suggestions about medications and supplements.
Weeping eczema means eczema that oozes fluid onto the skin. It happens when eczema becomes inflamed or infected by a bacteria, virus, or fungus. You may need a prescription medication to help your body fight the infection. Home remedies, such as baths, stress management, and twice-daily moisturizing can also help relieve your symptoms.
What should I do if my eczema is weeping?
If your eczema is weeping, make an appointment with your doctor to rule out an infection, or get a prescription medication to clear it up.
Should you moisturize oozing eczema?
You should apply an emollient moisturizer, like petroleum jelly, to help relieve weeping eczema symptoms until you can see your doctor.
Should I go to the ER for weeping eczema?
You should go to the ER if you have a very high temperature and weeping eczema. You should also go if you have symptoms of eczema herpeticum, including clusters of small blisters that break open and weep.
Can I put hydrocortisone on weeping eczema?
You can apply hydrocortisone, a topical steroid, to weeping eczema, ideally after bathing or showering. After patting your skin dry, but leaving it slightly moist, apply a thin layer of hydrocortisone to the affected area. Wait a half hour before you apply an emollient moisturizer.
Why is my eczema skin weeping clear fluid?
If you have eczema and notice your skin weeping clear fluid, you may have an infection. This is known as weeping eczema.
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