Eczema flare-ups can be unpredictable — tightness one day, itchiness the next. Undergoing a flareup means practically anything you put on your skin can irritate and sting. At this point, the best thing you can do is cut back your routine to the bare minimal with all soothing ingredients. Give you skin enough time to repair with the below suggested products and gradually introduce your other skin actives once your skin barrier has healed.
A minimal, eczema-friendly skincare starter kit: a gentle cleanser, a calming toner and serum, a rich moisturizer, and an occlusive to lock everything in. As always, patch-test first and keep your routine steady — calm skin loves consistency.
1) CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser — A Barrier-Safe Cleanse
A non-foaming, cream cleanser that removes the day without stripping. Probably the only cleanser I have tried that does not sting at all while my skin is flaring. Ceramides + hyaluronic acid help retain moisture while you cleanse, which is key during flare-ups.
- Why it helps: Gentle surfactants, no fragrance, supports the skin barrier.
- How to use: AM/PM on damp skin, rinse with lukewarm water, pat dry — no rubbing.
2) Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner
Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner is amazing for sensistive skin. With only 7 ingredients, lowering the chance of an ingredient irritating you, Pyunkang Yul is excellent source for dry skin during an eczema flare-up. A minimalist, alcohol-free, fragrance-free toner to add a thin layer of hydration before using anything else is the perfect first step toward restoring your skin barrier.
- Why it helps: Light hydration layers reduce tightness without overloading the skin. With low ingredient list, chances of irritation is low.
- How to use: After cleansing, press into skin with hands (avoid cotton drag).
3) ANUA 3 Ceramide Panthenol Moisture Barrier Cream
I have been using this moisturizer for a few months now and honestly nothing to me has compared in its ability to hydrate and nourish my skin. Either after using retinol or undergoing an eczema flare, Anua 3 Ceramide Cream has three types of ceramides that replenish the skin’s lipid layer, panthenol that soothes and hydrates, and amino acids + humectants to draw in moisture. With minimal fragrance and no harsh alcohols, it’s a smart choice for sensitive or reactive skin.
Opt for Anua’s gentle, barrier-supporting cream (e.g., ceramide/heartleaf/centella lines). These soothing formulas help buffer irritation and support moisture retention.
- Why it helps: Calming ingredients that help restore skin barrier strength, visible redness and improved comfort. It feels very hydrating while not being greasy.
- How to use: Apply a nickel-sized amount after toner; add more to dry patches as needed.
4) Aveeno 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Cream
Sometimes a flare incites a massive urge to itch your skin off. It really is a huge test of self control to not scratch at your skin, and using an anti-itch cream that can be found over the counter at most pharmacy’s is Aveeno 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Cream.
- Why it helps: Stops the itching for some time while you skin barrier repairs.
- How to use: Use on face or body; reapply to hotspots throughout the day.
5) Vaseline (Petrolatum) — Lock It All In
The ultimate simple occlusive. A thin layer of petrolatum seals in hydration from your toner and creams. Your skin is extremely vulnerable right now, so to make sure everything stays put and you give your skin time to heal with using simple ingredients, vaseline can help.
- Why it helps: Creates a protective seal so moisture stays put; ideal for barrier repair.
- How to use: PM “slugging” on damp skin or just on dry patches; a pea-size goes a long way.
Tip: Keep showers short, use lukewarm water, and choose soft cotton or bamboo fabrics to reduce friction.
