Is Aquaphor good for eczema?

Which Aquaphor ingredients help with eczema?

Healing Ointment contains 41% petrolatum, its active skin protectant. The formula forms a protective barrier that reduces moisture loss, while ingredients that attract water help keep skin hydrated. Its softening properties help dry, cracked skin feel smoother. The other ingredients are mineral oil, ceresin, lanolin alcohol, panthenol, glycerin and bisabolol. The ointment is free of fragrance, preservatives and dyes.14

How do you apply Aquaphor for eczema?

1. 1Keep baths and showers short and cooler rather than hot. Use a gentle cleanser instead of traditional soap, and avoid scrubbing.
2. 2Pat skin dry gently, leaving it slightly damp. Apply the ointment right away to help trap moisture.
3. 3Smooth the ointment onto skin gently in the direction of hair growth rather than rubbing it in.
4. 4If you also use a steroid cream or another eczema treatment, leave 20 to 30 minutes between the products. Ask your doctor which to apply first.

Aquaphor's label says to apply as needed. For eczema care, moisturize several times daily and reapply when skin feels dry or tight, especially after washing. The ointment can be used externally on the face and body, but keep it out of your eyes. If using a jar, remove the product with a clean spoon or spatula to reduce contamination.146

Should you use the ointment or the cream?

Ointments suit very dry, thickened skin and nighttime use. The ointment is thick and greasy, so its job description is moisture retention rather than disappearing politely. A cream is a practical daytime choice when you want something that absorbs quickly; using a cream during the day and an ointment at night is an option.6

Aquaphor Moisturizing Cream contains three ceramides, hyaluronic acid, shea butter and glycerin. Its advertised 9% refers to that combination, not 9% hyaluronic acid alone. The cream is fragrance free, accepted by the National Eczema Association and clinically tested to strengthen the skin's moisture barrier. It offers 48 hours of hydration and a lightweight, nongreasy texture. That hydration claim is not a reason to skip regular eczema moisturizing.35

What should you expect?

Healing Ointment helps soften skin and soothe irritation from dryness. There is no fixed timetable for an eczema flare to settle with Aquaphor. Moisturizing helps prevent cracks that can worsen itching, rash or infection, but inflamed eczema can also need medication. Follow your prescribed treatment rather than increasing the ointment and hoping it will do both jobs.125

Aquaphor Healing Ointment is suitable for babies' dry skin care. For children with eczema, continue daily moisturizing even when skin is clear and while using other treatments. Moisturizer belongs on the whole body, not only the visible patches.17

When should you stop or get help?

• Avoid ingredients you know trigger an allergy or irritation. Get advice for persistent burning, stinging or inflamed hair follicles.
• Do not apply Healing Ointment to open, bleeding or wet wounds, or use an ointment on weeping eczema.
• Contact a doctor if eczema worsens, does not respond to moisturizing, or develops signs of infection such as warmth, swelling, pain or fever.
• Aquaphor's label says to stop and ask a doctor if symptoms last more than seven days or clear and return within a few days.
• Keep treated clothing, bedding and dressings away from flames and cigarettes. Washing does not completely remove emollient residue.