The Best Lotions for Eczema

What Is Eczema?

Eczema is a condition that causes the skin to become itchy, inflamed, or have a rash-like appearance. There are seven different types of eczema, says the non-profit National Eczema Association (NEA for short), with atopic dermatitis being the most common. But eczema is simply a bucket term describing irritated, inflamed skin. If you experience eczema, you’re not alone—over 31 million Americans have some form of eczema, notes the NEA. It can begin during childhood, adolescence, or adulthood and it can range from mild to severe. While there is no cure for eczema, there are treatments that can help soothe and calm sensitive skin.

What Causes Eczema

Frustratingly, the cause of eczema is still unknown. But dermatologists do know it can be triggered by a handful of sources, including aging, seasonal changes, diet, stress, hormones, an overactive immune system, alcohol, and irritating skincare products. Eczema’s appearance can be as complex as its triggers, appearing differently on everyone. But, in general, eczema is usually itchy (sometimes painfully so), but can also include dryness, inflammation, roughness, oozing, and/or swelling. It often appears in red patches on lighter skin tones and gray, darker brown, or purple in people of color.

Eczema’s Toll

There is no shame in experiencing a chronic skin condition. But it cannot be understated how incredibly painful it can be to live with eczema—physically and emotionally. In a 2020 study analyzing the psychological impact of skin diseases, people experiencing eczema, psoriasis, and other skin conditions were more likely to have depressive symptoms, as well as feelings of isolation, loneliness, and overall “lower quality of life” compared to those without skin conditions.

Best Lotion for Eczema

Most with eczema can benefit from the guidance of a board-certified dermatologist. But it’s also helpful to consult with the NEA’s comprehensive Seal of Acceptance, which certifies the ingredients in the formula are safe for eczema-prone skin.

An effective moisturizer is particularly important for eczema sufferers, as there is emerging science linking the skin barrier and eczema. A healthy skin barrier is one of the most helpful tools to overcoming skin issues. One way to build a vibrant barrier is through hydration. Hydration is vital for all skin types, but especially for eczema sufferers. Look for unscented creams that utilize healing ingredients, like ceramides, peptides, and hyaluronic acid. Bonus points if the moisturizer includes famed calming ingredients like indigo, colloidal oatmeal, and humectants.

At Tatcha, we have a handful of eczema-friendly products. It’s one of the reasons Tatcha founder Vicky Tsai created the brand, after suffering from painful, full-body inflammation for years. Here are four lotion products that can help soothe sensitivity and irritation.

Best Facial Lotion for Eczema

Try: The Indigo Calming Cream

For daily hydration, try this rich, soothing cream, which is not only beloved by users, but is one of the best creams for eczema on the face. The newly updated and fragrance-free Indigo Calming Cream delivers therapeutic results and powerful relief, thanks to potent Japanese indigo and colloidal oatmeal. Indigo is helpful, as the timeless healing ingredient provides powerful anti-inflammatory relief, while also promoting skin’s natural healing abilities. But colloidal oatmeal (an FDA-designated skin protectant) is what sets this innovative cream apart from others. The addition of colloidal oatmeal has helped earn it the coveted National Eczema Association seal of approval for its ability to soothe irritated, eczema-prone skin on the face and beyond. Whether as a face cream or spot treatment, The Indigo Calming Cream offers a luxurious way to heal visibly stressed or eczema-prone skin for a calmer, stronger skin barrier.

100 percent of panelists in a clinical study saw an improvement in softness and suppleness immediately, an improvement in the appearance of the skin barrier after one week, and an improvement in visible redness and evenness of skin tone after four weeks. The emotional benefits of using the new Indigo Calming Cream are worth noting, too. In a clinical study self-assessment questionnaire, 86 percent of panelists noted that the product left them feeling like their skin was healthier after just one week.

Best Facial Treatment for Eczema

Try: Indigo Overnight Repair

If you’re searching for an overnight treatment, try this healing balm, which visibly calms irritation and strengthens the skin’s barrier. The formula features the soothing powers of Japanese indigo, but also includes red sage root to calm irritation, ceramides to boost moisture reserves, and hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate. In clinical studies, 100 percent of users saw an improvement in their skin barrier strength within four weeks.

Best Hand Cream for Eczema

Try: Indigo Soothing Hand Cream

Hands are a common place for eczema, due in part to frequent hand washing. Consider this calming cream, which has a concentrated dose of indigo, silk extracts, and squalane for a restorative, softening treatment.

Best Body Lotion for Eczema 

Try: Indigo Soothing Body Butter

Best Starter Ritual Set for Eczema

Try: The Indigo Starter Ritual

If you’re unsure which products you’ll enjoy most or just want to test the indigo series out before purchasing the full-size treasures, try this starter ritual set. The kit includes The Camellia Cleansing Oil, The Rice Polish: Calming, The Essence, Indigo Overnight Repair, and The Silk Peony eye cream — for $74 (a $92 value).