Is Vanicream Moisturizing Cream good for sensitive skin?

What makes it suitable for sensitive skin?

The cream contains petrolatum and has no fragrance, masking fragrance, botanical extracts or essential oils. It does not contain ceramides. Vanicream describes the texture as easy to spread, quickly absorbed and not greasy.1

Unscented products can contain masked fragrance; fragrance free products contain no fragrance, including fragrance you cannot smell. For children with eczema, choosing fragrance free products helps avoid a common trigger.4

The NEA seal identifies products suitable for eczema and sensitive skin conditions. Earning it requires testing for sensitivity, irritation and toxicity, plus a review of ingredients and formulation data. If you already know an ingredient triggers a reaction, avoid that ingredient rather than choosing by the seal alone.56

How should you apply it?

1. 1Wash gently with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance free cleanser. Avoid scrubbing.
2. 2Pat your skin dry, then apply the cream promptly while some moisture remains.
3. 3Smooth the cream gently in the direction your hair grows rather than rubbing vigorously.
4. 4Reapply whenever skin feels dry or tight. Vanicream also directs application after swimming or sun exposure, and before wind or cold.

There is no morning only or evening only restriction: Vanicream says to apply as needed. For ongoing dry skin care, general emollient guidance suggests applying at least three or four times daily. Emollients are moisturizers that form a protective film to trap moisture. If you also use a prescribed skin treatment, leave 20 to 30 minutes between applications and ask your doctor which goes first.12

Is Vanicream Moisturizing Cream good for eczema?

Yes, it is an appropriate moisturizing option for dry skin associated with eczema. Moisturizers help reduce water loss and protect the skin, but an inflamed flare can also need prescribed treatment. There is no fixed number of days in which this cream will clear eczema.17

For dyshidrotic eczema, which causes very dry skin and often affects hands or feet, choose a fragrance free cream or ointment rather than a lotion. Apply after washing and whenever skin feels dry. Creams sit between lotions and ointments in oil content; an ointment can be more effective at holding moisture in very dry skin.67

Can you use Vanicream Moisturizing Cream on your body?

You can use the same cream on your face and body, which do not need separate purchasing departments. Vanicream's directions also include hands and feet. If you use a tub, remove the cream with a clean spoon or spatula to reduce contamination.12

Does Vanicream Moisturizing Cream clog pores?

Vanicream labels the cream noncomedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores. Breakouts are still possible: emollients can sometimes cause blocked or inflamed hair follicles, called folliculitis, or facial rashes that aggravate acne. Seek advice from a pharmacist or doctor if these develop.12

When should you stop or get help?

Contact a clinician if symptoms worsen, home care does not help, or you develop fever, swelling, redness spreading in streaks or very tender skin. Trouble breathing, a tight throat or facial swelling needs emergency help. For a child with eczema, reactions to products can appear hours or days later, so watch beyond the first application.34

Keep emollient treated clothing and bedding away from flames and cigarettes. Fabric can become more flammable, and washing does not completely remove the buildup.2