What does Eucerin cream do?

What is Eucerin cream used for?

Original Healing is a thick, rich body cream intended for extremely dry, sensitive skin and skin with a weakened moisture barrier. You can also use it on dry hands and feet. Eucerin describes it as fragrance free and dye free, with 24 hours of moisture.1

The moisture barrier is the outermost layer of skin, which protects the cells beneath. Moisturizers help hydrate that layer and reduce water loss. Keeping water in the skin is the point, which is less glamorous than the word "healing" but rather more useful.34

Eucerin lists water, petrolatum and mineral oil among Original Healing's ingredients. Petrolatum and mineral oil form a coating that helps skin hold onto existing moisture. Moisturizing products can soften scaling or peeling skin and soothe dryness. Regular use of an emollient, a moisturizing treatment that softens skin, can also help prevent cracks.15

Can you use Eucerin cream on your face?

A rich cream can suit a very dry face, although Original Healing is marketed as a body cream. A lighter facial lotion or gel is generally a better choice unless your face is very dry. Original Healing's thick texture is intentional, not a lotion that failed its audition.13

Eucerin labels Original Healing noncomedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores. If you are prone to acne, rich occlusive products can still aggravate breakouts. For combination skin, moisturize the dry patches rather than automatically covering oily areas. Try only one new product at a time so a reaction is easier to trace.156

How should you apply Eucerin cream?

1. 1Wash with a gentle cleanser and warm rather than hot water. Keep baths and showers to five to ten minutes.
2. 2Gently pat dry, leaving your skin slightly damp. Apply moisturizer immediately after bathing or washing your hands to help trap that water.
3. 3Wash your hands before applying. Use a clean spoon or spatula to take cream from a tub rather than dipping your fingers into it.
4. 4Smooth the cream gently over dry areas in the direction of hair growth. Avoid vigorous rubbing.
5. 5Leave the cream on. Reapply when skin feels dry or tight, including after handwashing.

Eucerin directs daily use of Original Healing. General dry skin care can require moisturizer several times a day, so morning application does not rule out another application later. A leave on moisturizer stays on the skin, which is one skincare instruction that does not require an encore at the sink.124

If you use a prescribed steroid cream, leave at least 30 minutes between the steroid and moisturizer. Ask your clinician which to apply first, and follow your treatment plan rather than mixing the products together.47

When should you stop or get help?

Stop using the cream if it makes your skin itchy or sore. Speak to a pharmacist or clinician about persistent burning, stinging, a new rash or inflamed hair follicles. Fragrance free does not mean allergy free.347

See a dermatologist if regular moisturizing does not help, or dryness becomes painful, cracked, bleeding or very irritating. Moisturizer supports dry skin care, but an underlying condition can need prescription treatment.26

Keep emollient residue on clothing, bedding and dressings away from flames and cigarettes. These fabrics can catch fire easily, and washing does not completely remove the buildup.7