Moisturizers for Dry or Sensitive Skin
Moisturizers, sometimes called emollients, can help soothe and protect dry, sensitive skin and skin affected by conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. They work by adding moisture to the skin and helping reduce water loss from the skin barrier.
Products come in different forms, including ointments, creams, lotions, and gels. The best choice depends on how dry or irritated your skin is, where you are using the product, and which texture you prefer.
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Who are they for?
Moisturizers can be useful for people with dry or sensitive skin, including those with eczema or psoriasis. Fragrance-free products are often preferred for sensitive skin because fragrances and some other ingredients can cause irritation.
Some products are suitable for infants and children but check the product label and ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure which product is appropriate.
Which product is best?
There is no single moisturizer that works best for everyone.
Ointments containing ingredients such as petrolatum are thick and greasy but provide a strong barrier that helps reduce moisture loss. They may work well for very dry, cracked, or scaly skin, especially overnight.
Creams are less greasy and often easier to use during the day. Lotions are lighter and spread easily over larger areas but may need to be applied more often.
Products containing colloidal oatmeal may also help soothe dry, itchy, or irritated skin. The FDA recognizes colloidal oatmeal as a skin protectant ingredient when used in appropriate OTC products.
How should I use a moisturizer?
Apply moisturizer regularly, especially after bathing or washing while the skin is still slightly damp. Reapply whenever the skin feels dry.
Use gentle strokes rather than vigorous rubbing, particularly if the skin is irritated. Fragrance-free cleansers and lukewarm rather than hot water may also help reduce dryness.
For eczema or psoriasis, continued use of moisturizer can help support the skin barrier and may reduce dryness between flare-ups.
When should I get medical advice?
Most moisturizers are well tolerated but stop using a product if it causes significant burning, rash, swelling, or worsening irritation.
Talk with a healthcare professional if your skin is severely inflamed, cracked, bleeding, infected, or not improving with regular moisturizing. Do not apply routine moisturizers directly to open wounds or fresh burns unless the product is specifically intended for that purpose.
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