Over-the-counter remedies for eczema: Lotions, hydrocortisone creams, and options for pain management
In the quest for effective relief from eczema, many individuals turn to over-the-counter (OTC) treatments. Here's a guide to some of the most recommended options and best practices for using them.
For mild eczema flare-ups, OTC hydrocortisone cream can provide temporary relief. This mild steroid cream, lotion, or gel can help reduce redness, itching, and inflammation. However, it should only be used short-term and on non-sensitive skin areas to avoid potential side effects such as dry or cracked skin, itching, burning, acne, and skin color changes.
When it comes to long-term eczema management, gentle, fragrance-free ceramide and colloidal oatmeal moisturizers, along with petrolatum ointments like Vaseline or Aquaphor, form the cornerstone of OTC treatment. These products help restore the skin barrier, lock in moisture, and soothe itching and irritation. Recommended brands include CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, Eucerin Eczema Relief, Aveeno Eczema Therapy, and Vaseline or Aquaphor.
To maximise the effectiveness of these treatments, it's important to follow a few key practices. Apply moisturizers at least twice daily, especially within 3 minutes after bathing or washing, to lock in hydration while the skin is most receptive. Choose products without fragrances or parabens to avoid further irritation. Minimise the use of soaps or foaming cleansers, as these can damage the skin’s protective lipids and antibacterial enzymes important for skin health. Consistent daily moisturizing and avoiding triggers like irritants, allergens, and excessive dryness help maintain remission and prevent flare-ups.
For those suffering from hand eczema, an oily ointment such as petroleum jelly is recommended, and moisturizers with high water content should be avoided.
In more severe cases, further medical treatments such as phototherapy, immunosuppressants, oral steroids, biologics, Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors may be necessary. The National Eczema Association has created a product directory to help individuals find lotions and other products suitable for those with eczema.
OTC pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) may help ease painful eczema symptoms like burning and inflammation. However, long-term use of ibuprofen may cause organ damage and increase the risk of heart attack, while side effects of acetaminophen may include rash, anemia, electrolyte imbalance, increased uric acid levels, kidney damage, and in extreme cases, liver damage.
Antihistamines, a class of drugs that help block histamine, a chemical that the immune system produces, may help relieve itching and reduce inflammation. Some may also act as sedatives to help with sleep. Examples of OTC antihistamines include chlorpheniramine, cetirizine, fexofenadine, and doxylamine. However, high doses of antihistamines may include side effects such as dizziness, nausea and vomiting, blurred vision, dry mouth, poor coordination, and difficulty urinating.
In summary, a combination of gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers, OTC hydrocortisone (for short-term use during flare-ups), and proper skin care practices form the basis of effective OTC eczema treatment. For severe cases, further medical intervention may be necessary.
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