Understanding and Choosing the Best Cream for Eczema

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterised by red, itchy, and inflamed patches of skin. If you suffer from it, you’ll know that finding relief can be a constant battle. One of the most effective ways to manage eczema is through the use of specially formulated creams. In this blog, we’ll explore what eczema is, the types of creams available, and how to choose the best cream for your needs.

What is eczema?

Eczema is a condition that causes the skin to become itchy, inflamed, and irritated. It affects people of all ages but is particularly common in children. The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but it is believed to be linked to an overactive immune response to an irritant. Environmental factors, genetics, and stress can all exacerbate eczema symptoms.

Common symptoms of eczema include:

• Red, inflamed skin
• Intense itching
• Dry, scaly patches
• Blisters that may ooze or crust over
• Thickened, leathery skin

The Role of Creams for Eczema Treatment

Moisturising is a critical part of eczema management. Keeping your skin hydrated helps to restore the skin barrier, prevent moisture loss, and protect against irritants. Eczema creams typically fall into three categories: moisturisers, medicated creams, and natural remedies.

Types of Eczema Creams

• Moisturisers (Emollients)

Moisturisers are the cornerstone of eczema treatment. They help lock in moisture and create a barrier against external irritants. There are several types of moisturisers, including:

1. Lotions are light and easily absorbed, suitable for mild eczema, and can be used during the day.
2. Creams are thicker than lotions, offering more hydration. They are ideal for moderate eczema and use at night.
3. Ointments: greasy and heavy; best for severe eczema and very dry skin. They provide the most intense hydration.
4. Medicated Creams

For more severe eczema, medicated creams may be necessary. These typically include:

1.  Topical corticosteroids: these reduce inflammation and itching. They come in various strengths, from mild (hydrocortisone) to potent (clobetasol). Long-term use of steroid creams can cause side effects, so they should be used under medical supervision.
2.  Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors: these are non-steroidal creams (like tacrolimus and pimecrolimus) that reduce inflammation and immune response. They are suitable for sensitive areas like the face and neck.
3. Topical PDE4 Inhibitors: Newer treatments like crisaborole are designed to target specific pathways involved in inflammation.

Unfortunately, the prolonged use of these treatments is damaging to the skin and can thin it to dangerous levels. If steroid creams are needed, try to use them for as short a time as possible.

Natural Eczema Creams

Many people with eczema prefer natural or organic products to avoid the potential irritants found in synthetic creams. Popular natural ingredients include

• Snail mucin: which repairs damaged cells and locks in moisture.
• Colloidal Oatmeal: Soothes and moisturises irritated skin.
• Shea Butter: Deeply hydrating, it helps restore the skin barrier.
• Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing properties, it can reduce inflammation and itching.
• Coconut oil: provides a barrier to lock in moisture and has antibacterial properties.

Why is Snail Mucin Cream a Good Choice for Eczema Sufferers?

Our expertise lies in the development of snail mucin creams to treat skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis. Atopic cream including the mucus from snails is a good choice for those suffering from eczema for a number of reasons:

Healing Properties – snail mucin atopic cream contains glycoproteins that promote skin repair, support rapid cell regeneration and help heal the skin barrier which has been damaged by eczema.

Anti-Inflammatory Characteristics: snail mucin cream reduces skin inflammation, soothes irritated, red skin and minimises itching and discomfort, which are all common symptoms or eczema.

Skin Hydration: our snail mucin eczema cream contains hyaluronic acid which provides intense moisture and prevents skin dryness that is common in eczema.

Skin Protection: the snail mucin eczema cream contains antimicrobial properties that create a protective skin barrier and help prevent secondary skin infections.

Suitable for Sensitive Skin: snail mucin cream is hypoallergenic, gentle on sensitive skin making it suitable for most skin types from babies to young children, and adults.

Scientific evidence suggests snail mucin’s unique composition of proteins, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants make it particularly effective for managing eczema symptoms and supporting skin healing. Users apply the eczema cream twice daily to affected areas and report quick relief within a short space of time, some almost instantly and many within one to two weeks.

How to Choose the Best Cream for Eczema

When selecting our Atopic cream or any other cream for eczema, consider the following factors:

1. Severity of Symptoms: For mild eczema, a good moisturiser may suffice. Moderate to severe cases might need additional help.
2. Skin Type: Creams are best for very dry skin, as approximately 60% of the product applied will be absorbed.
3. Ingredients: Look for creams with ingredients that suit your skin. Avoid products with fragrances, dyes, and alcohol, as they can exacerbate symptoms.
4. Allergies: If you have allergies, choose hypoallergenic products.
5. Area of Application: Delicate areas like the face may need milder, non-steroidal creams, while thicker skin on the hands or feet may benefit from stronger formulations.
6. Consult a Dermatologist: For persistent or severe eczema, it’s best to consult a dermatologist who can recommend the most appropriate treatment.

Before and After Snail Mucin Atopic Eczema Cream

Our atopic snail mucin eczema cream has been tried and tested by adults, as well as babies, young children, and pregnant women. The following testimonials illustrate the effectiveness of our atopic cream for different types of eczema in different age groups and circumstances.

1. Lillie: After suffering from eczema on her hands and knees, 9 year old Lillie saw huge improvements after using our snail mucin atopic cream and is delighted to be able to wear her summer dresses with confidence again.
2. Baby Ricky: Mum Nadine tried every cream in the chemist to stop her baby son Ricky from scratching his head, legs and body which were covered in infant eczema. Nothing worked until she tried our Atopic Eczema Cream and saw massive improvements within one week (photos included).
3. Jemma: Mum, Jemma experienced the onset of dyshidrotic eczema (also called pompholyx or vesicular eczema) on her feet during her first pregnancy and continued to suffer from it for many years. Various treatments she tried over the years failed to provide relief until she tried our Atopic Eczema Cream containing snail mucin. Jemma is now a huge fan.

Conclusion

Managing eczema involves a combination of good skincare practices and the right cream to keep symptoms under control. Whether you opt for a rich moisturiser, a potent medicated cream, or a natural remedy such as our snail mucin atopic cream, the key is consistency and understanding your skin’s unique needs. Always patch-test new products and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns. With the right approach, you can effectively manage eczema and enjoy healthier, more comfortable skin with the right cream for you.

Bragan Skincare has developed a range of healing eczema creams using the healing power of snail mucin. Our products are fragrance free and developed for people with sensitive skin. If you’ve tried any of our snail mucin products and would like to share your feedback, or if you have any questions about snail mucin creams, get in touch with us by email