The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) describes eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) as a complex skin condition that’s caused by an interaction between an individual’s environment and their genes.^1,2 Although the exact cause is yet to be determined, people with eczema are generally believed to have an overactive immune system. This may cause the skin to become inflamed when it comes into contact with irritants or allergens (which can include some fragrances). According to the National Eczema Association, eczema may be linked to chronic skin barrier dysfunction, where the skin’s protective barrier isn’t able to effectively retain moisture and filter out environmental toxins.³

Signs of eczema can vary from person to person. Eczema rashes may also vary in color based on your skin tone, so it’s essential to consult a board-certified dermatologist if you suspect your skin issues may be caused by eczema. In general, eczema tends to appear in cycles (known as “flare-ups”) that show up as a dry, red rash accompanied by itching, sensitivity, and irritation. According to the Mayo Clinic, the severity of eczema rashes can range from mild to severe, with some people even experiencing blisters, bumps, thick patches of skin, swelling, and scaly or crusty skin.⁴

Eczema tends to be common during early childhood but can occur at any age. It’s typically believed to be triggered by allergens or irritants in your environment. According to the National Eczema Association, these triggers may include stress levels, having very dry skin, food allergies, harsh weather, and certain cleansers or shampoos. The NEA also states that some people may have a genetic predisposition that can make them more likely to experience eczema.¹

People with lighter skin tones may notice visibly dry, red or pink rashes on their skin, whereas those with deeper skin tones may experience dry-looking patches that appear brown, purple, or gray. Although eczema rashes can appear anywhere on your body, research shows that eczema is likely to affect the insides of the elbows, backs of the knees, palms of the hands, and soles of the feet.⁵ Eczema is sometimes mistaken for psoriasis (another dry, itchy skin condition), so it’s important to remember that only your doctor or a board-certified dermatologist can assess your skin and make an accurate diagnosis.

Your doctor or dermatologist can offer personalized guidance on the best ways to care for your eczema-prone skin. With that said, the National Eczema Association recommends avoiding potential triggers and focus on managing eczema symptoms with gentle skincare products.⁶ This includes applying sunscreen daily, avoiding products with fragrance, and using moisturizers that are designed to help restore the skin barrier.^7,8 In some cases, your dermatologist may recommend an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream for eczema (such as CeraVe Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Cream) or a prescription treatment. It can also be helpful to apply a fragrance-free moisturizer on damp skin immediately after bathing to help trap moisture and reduce dryness.

There are several skincare ingredients that may be helpful for those with eczema-prone skin. The National Eczema Association suggests looking for products that contain humectants (such as hyaluronic acid), which attract moisture to the skin’s outer layer, as well as niacinamide, glycerin, petrolatum, vitamin E, and oat or shea butter.⁷

You may also want to look for skin barrier creams that contain ceramides, which are a key component of your skin’s natural protective barrier. Many creams for eczema (such as CeraVe Eczema Relief Creamy Oil) also contain colloidal oatmeal, an ingredient that helps soothe minor skin irritation and itching. Our Itch Relief Lotion and Itch Relief Moisturizing Cream include pramoxine hydrochloride (HCL), an ingredient that temporarily relieves itching associated with minor skin irritations.

The ideal eczema cream for your skin’s needs should be determined by you and your dermatologist. However, there are a few considerations you can keep in mind when choosing a moisturizer for eczema-prone skin. For example, the National Eczema Association recommends using oil-based moisturizers for eczema-prone skin, such as ointments and creams. They also suggest choosing moisturizers that are allergy-tested, non-irritating, fragrance-free, and suitable for use on eczema-prone skin. We suggest trying CeraVe Moisturizing Cream.⁷

There’s currently no treatment available to cure eczema. However, it is possible to help reduce itchiness and improve the look and feel of eczema-prone skin. CeraVe’s targeted eczema relief products are developed with dermatologists and help provide the hydrating and soothing effects that have been shown to benefit this skin condition. Using our fragrance-free eczema products as part of your daily routine can help restore your skin’s protective barrier and help keep your skin feeling comfortable.

We recommend looking for products that are accepted by the National Eczema Association. Products that have the NEA Seal of Approval are free of certain ingredients known to aggravate sensitive, eczema-prone skin. Many CeraVe products have the NEA Seal of Approval, including our Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Cream, Eczema Relief Creamy Oil, Soothing Body Wash, Moisturizing Cream, and Healing Ointment.

If you have eczema-prone skin, we recommend working with a board-certified dermatologist to build a personalized skincare routine. Your dermatologist can assess your skin and help you craft the best routine for your skin’s needs using CeraVe’s range of cleansers, moisturizers, and anti-itch creams for eczema-prone skin.

1. “Eczema Prevalence, Quality of Life and Economic Impact.” National Eczema Association, 5 Sept. 2023.
2. “Eczema Types: Atopic Dermatitis Overview.” American Academy of Dermatology Association, 28 Nov. 2022.
3. “Skin Barrier Basics for People With Eczema.” National Eczema Association, Mar. 2023.
4. “Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) - Symptoms and Causes.” Mayo Clinic, 9 May 2023.
5. InformedHealth.org [Internet]. Cologne, Germany: Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2006-. “Eczema: Overview.” 2013 Sep 26 [Updated 2017 Feb 23].
6. “Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) Causes, Symptoms and Treatment.” National Eczema Association, 14 Nov. 2022.
7. “Lotion and Moisturizer for Eczema - Everything You Need to Know.” National Eczema Association, 16 Oct. 2022.
8. “Itchy Skin (Pruritus): Causes, Symptoms and Treatment.” National Eczema Association, 20 Dec. 2022.