Eczema 101: Everything You Need To Know, Plus Derm-Rated Products
October is Eczema Awareness Month, a specific time to spotlight eczema, along with tips to help you handle those flare-ups. We’re breaking down the essentials—what eczema is, what triggers it, and how to soothe your skin. From ingredients to look for (and avoid), to the products top dermatologists swear by, here’s your guide to managing eczema like a pro.
The causes
Eczema (or dermatitis) is basically your skin’s way of saying, “I’m not happy!” It occurs when your skin barrier is weakened, causing moisture loss, and allowing irritants and allergens to wreak havoc. Genetics, environmental triggers like stress, weather changes, and even certain foods can spark those dry, itchy patches we all dread.
Genetics, environmental triggers like stress, weather changes, and even certain foods can spark those dry, itchy patches we all dread.
The triggers
Stress, allergens like dust or pet dander, and even certain fabrics (goodbye, wool sweaters) can set it off. Harsh skincare ingredients, sudden weather changes, and too much hot water also wreak havoc. Keep an eye on your diet too—sometimes, dairy or gluten can be culprits for flare-ups.
The ingredients to look for
These skincare heroes are here to soothe, hydrate, and strengthen your skin barrier:
Ceramides: These are your skin’s natural building blocks, essential for retaining moisture.
Hyaluronic acid: The ultimate hydration magnet, drawing moisture into your skin.
Colloidal oatmeal: A soothing, anti-inflammatory superstar that calms redness and irritation.
Niacinamide: This all-star helps reduce inflammation and strengthens the skin’s barrier.
Shea butter: Rich in fatty acids, this is perfect for deeply moisturizing dry, flaky patches.
When managing eczema, what you don’t put on your skin is just as important as what you do.
Ingredients to avoid
When managing eczema, what you don’t put on your skin is just as important as what you do. Steer clear of these sneaky irritants:
Fragrances: As lovely as they smell, fragrances are often the number one culprit for irritation.
Alcohol: Found in toners and some cleansers, alcohol can zap your skin of moisture, leaving it dry and vulnerable.
Harsh exfoliants: Skip the physical scrubs that can aggravate your skin. Your skin barrier doesn’t need more trauma.
Sulphates: These foaming agents, found in cleansers and shampoos, can strip your skin of essential oils.
Best derm-approved products for eczema-prone skin
The products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, The Handbook may make a small commission on some products purchased through affiliate links.
