I ditched my doctor-prescribed eczema cream after trying these skin care products
Just when I thought my skin and I were in a good space, I found myself scheduling my first dermatologist appointment for a condition that I thought was in my past—eczema. I suffered badly from eczema as a child, often losing sleep due to the condition, and scratching myself until I bled. I thought I had built a skin care regimen that was keeping my eczema at bay. However, after two weeks of barely being able to touch my face and neck without them becoming red, itchy, and burning, I resorted to seeking help from a health professional.
If you are not familiar with the skin condition, here’s a clear definition of eczema and its causes according to MayoClinic:
“Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a condition that makes your skin red and itchy. It's common in children but can occur at any age. Atopic dermatitis is long lasting (chronic) and tends to flare periodically. For some people, it flares periodically and then clears up for a time, even for several years....Healthy skin helps retain moisture and protects you from bacteria, irritants and allergens. Eczema is related to a gene variation that affects the skin's ability to provide this protection. This allows your skin to be affected by environmental factors, irritants and allergens.
To be completely honest, I can’t pinpoint exactly what made my eczema flare up after so many years. However, it was evident that my current skin regimen was not cutting it. During my visit to the dermatologist, I explained my routine, and he felt that a steroid cream was the way to go. At first I was all for using the topical steroid, but after doing more research and reading about all of the side effects, I decided to revamp my skin care regimen instead.
Some of the side effects of the topical steroids that I was prescribed can include hypopigmentation (loss of pigmentation), skin thinning, acne, cataracts, and glaucoma. It only took me a few minutes of researching to toss my steroids in the trash and clean up my skin care regimen. By simplifying my skin care and incorporating ingredients known to heal troubled skin, I’ve kept my eczema under control. It’s been over two months and we’re still going strong.
Here are the non-steroid products I’m currently using to conquer my eczema.
1Witch Hazel
This is literally the best toner if you have eczema or just troubled skin, period. Witch Hazel is the active ingredient it most toners, so using it in pure form just cuts out all of the unnecessary ingredients and possible irritants.
2Mario Badescu Aloe, Cucumber & Green Tea Facial Spray
Moisture is super important when it comes to dealing with eczema. Not only is this facial spray hydrating, but it’s also calming, due to the cucumber and aloe. That’s a double-win in my book.
3La Roche-Posay Lipikar Soothing Relief Cream
In my opinion, the worst part of dealing with eczema is the burning and itching. This cream has colloidal oatmeal that helps relieve all of that while giving some much needed hydration. Plus, it can be used from head to toe, not just the face.
4La Roche-Posay Lipikar Lotion
Hydration is key when it comes to dealing with eczema, and this keeps my skin moisturized all day. It’s also formulated for the face and body, which I love. The best part is that it smells amazing.
5SheaAde Whipped Shea and Mango Butter
Raw shea butter is loaded with vitamin A. This essentially keeps your skin healthy and radiant, not only on the surface, but layers below. I’m currently using one blended with mango butter (also great for treating eczema) and it makes my skin feel soft, hydrated, and smelling absolutely divine.
6Dove Purely Pampering Coconut Milk & Jasmine Petals Body Wash
My eczema was mainly affecting my face and neck, but I did start to notice some dry patches on my arms. This Dove body wash has helped to gently cleanse my skin while adding moisture.
7LUV SCRUB Mesh Body Exfoliator
After learning that loofahs hold a ton of bacteria and dead skin cells, I was on the hunt for a new skin cleaning tool. I stumbled upon the LUV SCRUB and it has improved the texture of my skin tremendously over the past few months. My skin hasn’t felt so clean and smooth in a while.
8Sunny Isle Extra Dark Jamaican Black Castor Oil
Castor oil has probably been the most important product in my post-eczema routine. Not only does it treat eczema when it’s present, but it also helps prevent flare-ups.
9Inika Organic Lip Serum
My lips have also fallen victim to eczema. This organic lip serum is lightweight, deeply hydrates my lips, and helps form a protective barrier against flare-ups.
I’m so happy that I’ve found products that help keep my eczema away. Not only are they the solution to my specific skin issues, but they don’t involve topical or oral drugs that may cause more issues in the long run.
