Eczema cream or eczema oil: which is better?

When it comes to managing eczema, choosing between an eczema cream or an eczema oil depends on your specific skin needs, the type of flare-up you’re experiencing, and even your daily routine. Both have their pros and cons, and often the best approach is to experiment to see which works best for your skin at a given time.

In fact, I tend to use a combination of both. For example, during the day I will apply eczema cream regularly when working at my desk. But for overnight, I will apply oil to lock in the moisture (especially if you sleep in aircon!)

When to use eczema cream

Pros:

• Hydration: Creams are generally water-based, so they provide quick hydration. This can be great when your skin feels dry but not necessarily cracked or severely inflamed.
• Lightweight: Most eczema creams are absorbed quickly, making them convenient for daytime use. You can apply it and go about your day without feeling greasy.
• Cooling Effect: Creams can feel cool and soothing, especially if the skin is hot or inflamed.

Cons:

• Might Need Frequent Application: Because creams are more water-based, they might need to be applied multiple times a day to maintain moisture, especially if you live in a dry climate or have severe eczema.

Suggested products:

Eczema Oil

Pros:

• Deep Nourishment: Oils, like emu oil or coconut oil, penetrate deeper into the skin. They can help if your eczema is causing severe dryness or if your skin feels thickened (lichenification).
• Locks in Moisture: Oils are occlusive, meaning they form a protective barrier on the skin, sealing in moisture. This is especially helpful for nighttime use or during particularly dry weather.
• Anti-inflammatory: Oils like emu oil have natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can help calm inflamed eczema patches.

Cons:

• Greasy Feeling: Oils can leave your skin feeling greasy, which may not be ideal during the day, especially if you need to dress or touch things right after application.
• Not Always Ideal for Sensitive Skin: Some people may find oils too heavy or irritating if their skin is already broken or sensitive. In that case, a lighter cream may be more suitable.

Suggested products

Use a combination

If your eczema is in a mild to moderate stage, where your skin just feels dry and itchy, a good eczema cream might do the job, providing hydration without leaving your skin greasy. However, if you’re dealing with more severe dryness, cracking, or if your eczema is flaring up with inflammation, an eczema oil can help soothe and protect your skin, especially if applied overnight.

Many people use a combination of both—using creams during the day and oils at night when a richer product is more tolerable. Personally, I find that layering cream first and sealing it with oil (like emu oil) is a great strategy during harsh weather or flare-ups.

It’s worth noting that some eczema creams have a consistency that is closer to an eczema ointment. That is, they are more like petroleum jelly or Vaseline. And these are useful for cracked skin if you want maximum protection overnight, as they have the highest oil content.

Have you tried both, or do you have a preference? Let me know!