I’ve always taken precautions against skin infections, especially after experiencing cellulitis on my C-section incision. My doctor informed me that once you’ve had it, you’re at a higher risk of developing it again on any open wound. To stay safe, she prescribed a specific antibiotic and advised me to apply it to all my extremities. (Better safe than sorry, right?)
Now, I have a bad habit of picking at pimples and blackheads (anyone else guilty of this?). One morning, after an overzealous session, I woke up with a red, inflamed nose. Panic set in. Had I just given myself cellulitis on my face? In full paranoia mode, I began applying my prescribed antibiotic directly on my nose and surrounding areas. I visited my doctor four times before finally seeing a dermatologist.
During my appointment, the dermatologist asked unexpected questions: “Do you have unusual peeling or flaking inside your ears?” Uh, what? Who pays attention to ear flakes? Then he asked if I struggled with keeping my lips moisturized or had difficulty applying lipstick or lip stains. “YES! But what does that have to do with anything?” Turns out, I had eczema. (LOL.) And to make matters worse, the antibiotic cream I’d been slathering on my face had only exacerbated the dryness.
After finally getting a diagnosis, I set out to find the best products to keep my eczema under control. Here are my absolute favorite go-to essentials for dry skin relief:
1. Everyday Face & Body Lotion
I swear by Cetaphil (or its generic counterpart). Whether my eczema is flaring up or not, this is my daily go-to for all-over moisture. It’s lightweight yet hydrating—perfect for everyday use.
2. LANEIGE Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Moisturizer
This incredible moisturizer is packed with hyaluronic acid, which helps to intensely hydrate and plump the skin. It’s lightweight and absorbs quickly, making it a fantastic addition to my skincare routine for combating dryness and keeping my skin looking fresh.
3. Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Face
I’ve found that incorporating a hyaluronic acid serum into my regimen significantly boosts hydration. This serum draws moisture into the skin, helping to keep it supple and dewy, which is essential for managing dryness.
4. Nivea Cream (Thick & Rich Moisture)
This ultra-thick, slightly greasy lotion has been a game-changer, especially as a makeup primer. Eczema makes wearing makeup challenging because most products dry out the skin, causing flaking throughout the day. I never realized that my years-long struggle with makeup application was due to eczema! I also use this cream inside my ears since, apparently, I do have excessive peeling there (TMI, I know!).
5. CeraVe Healing Ointment
This is my final step in locking in moisture. It’s silky, smooth, and acts as the perfect makeup primer—like Vaseline but without the greasy feel. If you struggle with dry, irritated skin, this product is a must-have.
6. Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Bar
For cleansing, I use the CETAPHIL Gentle Cleansing Bar. It’s perfect for sensitive skin and doesn’t strip away moisture, making it a staple in my skincare routine for maintaining hydration while cleansing.
Hair Care Bonus: Pine Tar Shampoo & Conditioner
For my dry scalp and hair, I’ve found that pine tar shampoo and conditioner work wonders. My favorite brand smells like fresh pine and mint, and a little goes a long way. It lathers up beautifully and leaves my hair feeling nourished.
Added Bonus: Silicone Face Scrub Brush
I also love using a silicone face scrub brush to gently exfoliate my skin without causing irritation. It helps to remove dead skin cells and keeps my complexion looking fresh and smooth.
Final Thoughts
Living with eczema and dry skin doesn’t have to feel impossible. With the right products, you can achieve soft, healthy-looking skin and hair. I hope this helps someone else who’s struggling—because trust me, I’ve been there!
