Hello, dear reader. It’s your favorite dry skin writer, and today I’m sharing a secret with you: I’m an adult with eczema. Now, I’m not the only adult with eczema, in fact, about 16.5 million adults in the US have it, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be frustrating and challenging at times. It makes finding the perfect skincare products and perfecting a routine that much more complicated, and I struggled for years trying to do it on my own, until I enlisted the help of a professional.

Cue my wonderful, amazing dermatologist. Last June, during my annual mole and eczema checkup, I finally took the time to find out everything I needed to know about taking care of my skin properly. Now, thanks to the insight of my dermatologist, I can finally run my hands all over my body and not come in contact with little scaly patches of eczema.

Make no mistake: this is no small feat, folks, which is exactly why I’m sharing everything I learned on my last date because life is too short for dry, itchy skin. And, spoiler alert: they are totally revolutionary and will leave your skin brighter and more nourished than ever. Read on for the top five tips I learned from my dermatologist when it comes to managing eczema.

Hydrate frequently throughout the day

Eczema damages the skin’s barrier function, making it more sensitive and susceptible to irritation. That’s why even though some people can moisturize once a day, someone with eczema needs to do it 3 or 4 times a day. Frequent hydration is key to replenishing the skin’s barrier and maintaining and retaining moisture. It is true that this requires more time and work, but I personally find it relaxing and therapeutic. Being able to run my hands all over my body and not run over a patch of rough, scaly eczema feels so rewarding.

It is important to note that this still applies to the times you use any prescription corticosteroid cream to treat eczema because the cream will not work on its own. I’ve also been told that corticosteroids can only be used for 1-2 weeks at a time at most, any longer and you risk whitening your skin. So, in general, getting into the habit of moisturizing frequently will help you better manage your eczema and prevent flare-ups.

Stick to heavy-duty moisturizers

For someone whose skin barrier is already weakened and damaged, your run-of-the-mill moisturizer won’t cut it. My dermatologist recommends moisturizing with CeraVe, Cetaphil or plain petroleum jelly or Aquaphor on eczema-prone skin. My top three favorites, in no particular order, are Vaseline, Aquaphor, and CeraVe Healing Ointment.

Some people tend to avoid healing ointments or anything that contains Vaseline because of the greasy feel it can leave and the risk of possible staining. To minimize this risk, I recommend applying it to clothing you don’t mind getting dirty (think: an old shirt, bath towel, robe, etc.) and sitting in a towel for a while after applying it. In addition, I also recommend putting moisturizer on your hands during times when you don’t plan on going to the computer or picking up the phone (like when you’re watching the latest Netflix thriller) to help minimize and eliminate the temptation to go and wash it off.

Use the right facial moisturizers

Before, I used lightweight gel moisturizers that just weren’t. My dermatologist explained to me that I need a thicker moisturizer that really soaks into my skin instead of sitting on top of it. My Ride-or-Die facial moisturizer is La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+M Triple Repair Moisturizing Cream. I was finally able to achieve the coveted “frosted donut” skin look that I had been craving with daily use. Facial moisturizers from La Roche-Posay, CeraVe, Cetaphil, or the beloved Neutrogena Hydro Boost are also great options.

The best facial moisturizers for dry and eczema-prone skin

This moisturizer is clinically proven to help reduce rough, dry skin and is totally affordable, making it even more accessible for those of us who need to constantly apply moisturizer. Provides 48-hour long-lasting hydration that isn’t greasy or sticky. For less than $21, adding this to cart is a no-brainer.

Hydro Boost Water Gel Face Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid

This product has stood the test of time in every pharmacy thanks to its cult following. A game changer for dry skin, Neutrogena Gel Moisturizer helps instantly hydrate, leaving skin soft, supple, and hydrated. We love that it’s free of oils, dyes and fragrances, making it suitable for the most sensitive girls.

AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion with Sunscreen

If you’re looking for an all-in-one product for your morning skincare routine, this is it. It contains hyaluronic acid, ceramides, niacinamide AND SPF 30. Basically, it has everything you need to repair and protect your skin throughout the day.

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