The Role of Moisturizers in Managing Eczema

The Role of Moisturizers in Managing EczemaRose Eclavea2024-03-19T07:38:30+00:00

Eczema, the chronic, inflammatory skin condition characterized by itchiness and dry skin, is incurable. However, it can be managed through the application of eczema-relief moisturizers. With strategic use, these products can mitigate the discomfort that comes with eczema and aid in preventing flare-ups. Learn more about moisturizers and their role in relieving eczema below.

Learn More: Experts Share Tips on Managing Eczema With the Right Regimen

What Are Moisturizers?

Moisturizers typically combine water or hydrating ingredients, occlusive agents, humectants, and emollients to replenish and lock in the skin’s moisture, preventing dehydration and maintaining optimal hydration levels. Each of these components play a distinct role in protecting and strengthening the skin.

• Water or hydrating substances: Increases moisture levels in the skin.
• Occlusive agents: Create a barrier on the skin’s surface to trap existing moisture and prevent its escape into the surrounding environment, also known as trans-epidermal water loss.
• Humectants: Attract water from the environment or the underlying skin layers to enhance the skin’s ability to retain moisture.
• Emollients: Reduce roughness and provide a smooth and soft skin texture by filling in the gaps between skin cells.

Moisturizers can also contain various active ingredients, such as antioxidants, vitamins, and anti-inflammatory compounds, to contribute to overall skin health and protect against environmental stressors.

How Moisturizers Help With Managing Eczema

• Repair Damaged Skin Barrier

The topmost layer of our skin is a complex structure composed of skin cells and lipids. In eczema-prone skin, this lipid barrier is often impaired, which increases the risk of water loss and susceptibility to irritants and allergens. Moisturizers, especially those formulated for eczema, contain essential lipids and ceramides that work to repair and strengthen the skin barrier. They effectively restore the skin’s ability to retain moisture while reducing the penetration of substances that can trigger eczema flare-ups.

• Calm and Soothe Inflammation

Eczema-prone skin is more likely to experience excessive water loss, which exacerbates dryness and contributes to a persistent cycle of inflammation. Eczema-relief moisturizers incorporate natural and mild, anti-inflammatory ingredients, such as chamomile or calendula, to actively target the inflammatory pathways and mitigate redness and swelling.

Eczema-friendly moisturizers also provide ample hydration to manage inflammation, which can be aggravated by dry and compromised skin. They work to maintain and improve the skin’s moisture levels, reducing the risk of eczema flares while bolstering the skin’s resilience against inflammation and external aggressors.

• Provide Relief from Itch

Besides increasing the risk of inflammation, dryness can also trigger intense itching in many. Thankfully, moisturizers are able to alleviate itchy skin by supplying the skin with the hydration it needs by attracting and retaining water to create a hydrated environment. Certain moisturizing skincare products even contain anti-itch ingredients that provide a cooling sensation for itch-relief, contributing to an overall sense of comfort.

Eczema-relief moisturizers don’t just serve as hydrating agents; they are powerful tools useful for alleviating symptoms and improving overall comfort and well-being. However, consistent and diligent use is key for sustained relief. Regularly applying eczema lotions maintains hydration and protection, reducing the frequency and risks of flare-ups.

Are you on the lookout for hydrating skincare? From eczema lotions to body wash, AweMed Series offers a range of products that can help you feel comfortable in your own skin. Learn more about the range here.

References

Purnamawati, S., Indrastuti, N., Danarti, R., & Saefudin, T. (2017). The role of moisturizers in addressing various kinds of dermatitis: a review. Clinical Medicine & Research, 15(3–4), 75–87. https://doi.org/10.3121/cmr.2017.1363

Kang, S. Y., Um, J. Y., Chung, B. Y., Lee, S., Park, J. S., Kim, J. C., Park, C. W., & Kim, H. O. (2022). Moisturizer in Patients with Inflammatory Skin Diseases. Medicina-lithuania, 58(7), 888. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina58070888

National Eczema Association. (2022, October 16). Lotion and moisturizer for eczema – everything you need to know. https://nationaleczema.org/eczema/treatment/moisturizing/