7 best eczema creams and lotions to help you during flare-ups
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From rich, moisturising body lotions, to thick and greasy ointments, the best eczema creams can generally be found in the not-so-glamorous pharmacy section of your local Boots or Superdrug. These dermatologist-recommended emollients often come housed in telltale white tubs or clinical-looking tubes, and play an essential role in managing symptoms (or tackling flare-ups).
“Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition affecting 2-10% of adults," explains Consultant Dermatologist, Dr Derrick Phillips. “It's characterised by an impaired skin barrier, which leads to the increased loss of moisture from the skin – leading to dryness and irritation.”
There are different types of eczema, but the most common one is atopic eczema – or ‘atopic dermatitis’ – which causes the skin to become itchy, dry and cracked. Some people only have small patches, while others may experience more widespread inflammation – but irritation most commonly appears on the hands, in the crook of the elbows, on the backs of the knees, and on the face and scalp.
Clearly, I'm not a doctor – so please consult your GP for medical advice, management tips and proper emollient recommendations. I am, however, a skincare lover with a particularly sensitive skin barrier – so I've become pretty skilled over the years at hunting down everyday lotions and creams that don't feel overly medicinal. But, importantly, that are safe for use on eczema-prone skin.
From lightweight body lotions, to rich overnight moisturisers, this edit is filled with face and body creams from skincare brands that have been granted the all-important National Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance™. Don't get me wrong, you'll definitely still want to reach for the trusty tub of proper, pharmaceutical ointment to tackle any flare-ups — but these dermatologist-approved picks from regular brands like Aveeno and La Roche-Posay are ideal for everyday use.
What are the symptoms of eczema?
“Eczema is often identified by itchy, dry, red, or darkly pigmented scaly patches of skin," says Dr Derrick Phillips. “These patches are often found in areas where the skin creases – like the insides of the elbows, behind the knees, and around the neck.”
According to Dr Derrick, eczema symptoms can really vary from person to person. "In some cases it can appear as circular patches, whereas on the hands and feet it may show up as small, fluid-filled bumps that can be especially uncomfortable," he explains. “If it starts to become especially weepy or develops a golden crust, you're likely dealing with an infection.”
Is eczema genetic?
Atopic eczema is the most common kind, and dermatology research show that it does seem to run in families – and has a link to other atopic conditions, like asthma, hayfever, and food allergies.
“In many people with eczema, inherited changes in skin barrier proteins like filaggrin make the skin less able to lock in moisture and defend against irritants – which increases the likelihood of eczema flare-ups,” Dr Derrick explains. And everyday triggers like harsh soaps and fragranced cosmetics – alongside environmental factors like particularly dry or cold weather – can provoke a reaction.
Alternatively, eczema can also be acquired by the immune system being triggered by allergens. "Contact dermatitis develops when the immune system becomes sensitised to specific ingredients or substances that touch the skin – like preservatives, fragrances, or even metals like nickel – and this triggers an eczema reaction.” Dr Derrick adds.
Can eczema be treated without steroids?
With more and more people speaking out on social media about the realities of living with Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW), many eczema sufferers are now reluctant to reach for steroid creams as a first-line eczema treatment.
In short, it's definitely possible to manage most mild to moderate cases without topical corticosteroids – as long as you're really disciplined about keeping your skin moisturised, and actively treat any affected areas.
However, sometimes, a trusty over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can really help reduce inflammation and itching during a particularly bad flare-up of severe eczema – but only using it for a short-period of time is cruical if you want to avoid any of the nasty side effects. As always, your best bet is definitely to speak to your NHS GP or healthcare provider.
What ingredients should I look for in an eczema cream – and which should I avoid?
The best creams and lotions for eczema-prone skin are generally packed with emollients like shea butter and jojoba oil that'll help soften and moisturise dry skin — as well as soothing ingredients like colloidal oatmeal and aloe vera to help with any itch relief.
“Ceramides and panthenol are also great because they will help support, repair, and strengthen the skin barrier," Dr Derrick adds. “And definitely look out for humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, as they can provide some much-needed hydration.”
In terms of what you need to avoid, Dr Derrick says that the most obvious answer is anything fragranced. “Plus, it's also best to exercise caution with actives like retinol and vitamin C, as they can irritate inflamed skin."
Ahead, the best eczema creams and moisturisers for daily use.
La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+M Moisturiser for Dry Skin
- Size: 200ml.
- Consistency: Thick and creamy balm.
- National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance? Yes.
- Pros: Locks in moisture; Nourishes and strengthens the skin barrier; Suitable for the face and body.
- Cons: Can feel quite heavy and greasy.
Adored by dermatologists, this thick balm is suitable for both children and adult alike – and you're totally safe to use it on the face as well as the body. Recommended by dermatologists, the sophisticated formula contains plenty of key ingredients for eczema-prone skin – like soothing niacinamide to instantly combat the itchiness, hydrating glycerin, and the softening and moisturising emollient, shea butter. Meanwhile, Aqua Posae prebiotic helps restore the skin barrier, and balance your microbiome.
In terms of consistency, it's best described as a rich balm-cream hybrid – providing a protective layer over your skin that locks in hydration for up to 48 hours. So – with this in mind – it's quite greasy, and is therefore best used as a seriously nourishing overnight treatment.
Biossance Squalane + Omega Repair Cream
- Size: 50ml.
- Consistency: Rich whipped cream.
- National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance? Yes.
- Pros: Restores and supports the skin barrier; Rich yet non-greasy feel; Leaves skin supple and dewy.
- Cons: Very pricey.
There's so much to love about this luxurious face cream. For starters, it's got a really rich and decadent creamy texture, but absorbs into the skin surprisingly quickly – making it a great non-greasy moisturiser to apply before putting on any make-up.
Intensely nourishing, this cream contains all the necessary lipids to help restore and support the skin's natural moisture barrier – essential ceramides, anti-inflammatory omega fatty acids, and occlusive squalene — and leaves your skin truly replenished. The result? A smooth, plump, and dewy complexion – and a thoroughly restored skin barrier.
Nécessaire The Hand Cream Barrier Treatment
- Size: 65g.
- Consistency: Silky and lightweight cream.
- National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance? Yes.
- Pros: Sleek and luxurious texture; Not at all sticky; Supports the skin barrier.
- Cons: Not as rich as some of the more traditional eczema hand creams.
Specialist eczema hand treatments generally look quite medicinal, and have a really thick and greasy texture that makes them best-suited to overnight repair. But if you're after a tube for on-the-go use that looks a little more chic and sophisticated – but still boasts a fragrance-free formula that's suitable for sensitive skin – this lightweight Nécessaire cream is the perfect one to sling in your handbag.
Boasting a silky and non-sticky finish, the nourishing formula is bursting with five ceramides to help restore the skin barrier, hydrating glycerin, soothing niacinamide, and the emollient, marula oil. Plus, five staple peptides work together to reduce the appearance of fine lines, and leave the hands looking and feeling far more supple. Is it the cream to reach for if you're dealing with severe cracks? No — but it's definitely a great eczema-friendly option to have on your desk.
Glossier After Baume Moisture Barrier Recovery Cream
- Size: 50ml.
- Consistency: Very thick and balmy cream.
- National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance? Yes.
- Pros: Great occlusive formula for overnight repair; Buttery and luxurious feel; Vegan and cruelty-free formula.
- Cons: Likely a little too heavy and sticky for daytime wear.
Accurately described by the brand as ‘a puffer jacket for your skin’ Glossier's After Baume is the ultimate barrier cream – providing very dry skin with a deeply protective and nourishing layer of plant-based ingredients that work together to help lock-in hydration for up to 24-hours. Suitable for use anywhere on the body or face, use it on any area of skin that needs emergency barrier repair.
As you'd expect from such a balmy barrier cream, After Baume is rich in protective and film-forming emollients like cupuaçu butter and babassu oil – while glycerin attracts moisture, and postbiotic ferment and green microalgae extract aid in replenishing essential nutrients. With its relatively heavy occlusive texture, it makes a great overnight recovery mask – especially for those who swear by the skincare practice of slugging.
- Size: 14ml.
- Consistency: Lightweight cream.
- National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance? Yes.
- Pros: Reduces dark circles and puffiness; Provides gentle barrier support; Ophthalmologist-tested.
- Cons: Very small tube.
This clever Cerave eye cream effectively reduces the appearance of dark circles and puffiness, and does so in a way that won’t irritate particularly dry and delicate skin. Developed by dermatologists, its definitely gentle enough for standard day-to-day use on eczema-prone eyelids — but clearly, you’ll want to reach for a considerably more occlusive formula if you’re dealing with severe dryness, or an active flare-up.
Specially formulated to protect the skin barrier, it's packed with three protective essential ceramides, and hyaluronic acid to help with retaining the skin's natural moisture. The result? Brighter, smoother, and far more healthy skin around the eyes.
Avène Tolerance Control Soothing Skin Recovery Cream for Sensitive Skin
- Size: 40ml.
- Consistency: Lightweight creamy lotion.
- National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance? Yes.
- Pros: Well-suited to oilier skin; Instantly soothes redness and discomfort; Fast-absorbing formula.
- Cons: Might not be rich enough for some.
A seriously soothing formula that's been designed specifically for hypersensitive skin types, this lightweight face lotion works quickly to tackle redness – whether caused by an adverse reaction a new skincare product, or an eczema, rosacea, or psoriasis flare-up. Lightweight and fast-absorbing, it's a great day cream for those seeking a less greasy formula – and the lack of oil-heavy ingredients makes it well-suited to oily and combination skin types.
Enriched with soothing and softening Avène thermal spring water, and the ultra-calming D-Sensinose postbiotic, this hard-working yet minimalist formula promises to reduce any skin irritation in just thirty seconds – while squalane and glycerin get to work hydrating and nourishing the skin barrier.
Aveeno Dermexa Emollient Cream
- Size: 200ml.
- Consistency: Standard everyday body cream.
- National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance? Yes.
- Pros: Fast-absorbing formula; Soothes itching; Recommended by doctors and dermatologists; Great value for money.
- Cons: Might not be thick enough for some.
Taking the time to moisturise your body when you get out of the shower is especially important for those with eczema – but you'll want to find a cream that absorbs quickly, and doesn't leave you overly greasy. And thankfully, this Aveeno body moisturising cream ticks both boxes – while also being seriously nourishing on irritated skin.
Recommended by dermatologists, this daily emollient cream is formulated with a Prebiotic Triple Oat Complex (colloidal oatmeal, oat oil, and oat essence) and ceramides, and has been clinically proven to soothe and protect dry and itchy skin.
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