Ointments, Creams, and Lotions for Eczema: What’s the Difference, How to Use Them, and Where They Work Best

When it comes to managing eczema, moisturizing is your #1 defense against flare-ups. But if you’ve ever stood in the skincare aisle wondering whether to grab an ointment, cream, or lotion, you’re not alone.

The truth is, not all moisturizers are created equal, and using the wrong type in the wrong way can make your eczema worse instead of better.

This guide will break down:
✔ The difference between ointments, creams, and lotions
✔ When and where to use each type
✔ How to apply them for maximum hydration and barrier repair
✔ The best ingredients to look for in eczema-friendly products

Why Moisturizing Is Crucial for Eczema Care

Eczema-prone skin has a weakened barrier, which means it:
✔ Loses water quickly → dryness and cracking
✔ Lets irritants and allergens in → flare-ups
✔ Triggers an overactive immune response → itching and inflammation

Regular moisturizing:
✔ Restores the skin barrier
✔ Locks in hydration
✔ Reduces flare-up frequency
✔ Makes topical treatments more effective

Ointments, Creams, and Lotions: What’s the Difference?

1. Ointments (Most Protective)

Texture: Thick, greasy, and occlusive
Composition: Mostly oil-based, minimal water
Best For:

• Severe dryness and cracked skin
• Hands, feet, elbows, knees
• Long-lasting hydration

✔ Pros:

• Creates a strong barrier

✔ Cons:

• Feels greasy, can stain clothes

Popular Options:

• Petroleum jelly (Vaseline)
• Aquaphor Healing Ointment
• Babo Botanicals Sensitive Baby Fragrance Free Healing Ointment

Pro Tip: Apply ointments at night for maximum absorption. Wear cotton gloves or socks if treating hands/feet.

2. Creams (Balanced and Effective)

Texture: Thick but spreadable, less greasy than ointments
Composition: Oil and water mix
Best For:

• Everyday use on body and face
• Moderate dryness
• Absorbs better than ointments

✔ Pros:

• Hydrating and barrier-supporting

✔ Cons:

• Needs reapplication more often than ointments

Popular Options:

• Cerave Intensive Moisturizing Cream
• Rowe Casa Organics Skin Soothe Body Cream
• Honest Soothe Eczema Relief Cream
• Mustela Stelatopia Lipid Replenishing Cream
• Earth Mama Eczema Cream

3. Lotions (Lightest, Least Effective for Eczema)

Texture: Thin, liquid, easy to apply
Composition: Mostly water, little oil
Best For:

• Mild dryness
• Quick hydration for non-flare areas

✔ Pros:

• Non-greasy, fast-absorbing

✔ Cons:

• Evaporates quicky
• Not enough protection for eczema-prone

Popular Options:

• Aveeno Skin Relief Lotion (fragrance-free)
• Codex BIA Eczema Relief Lotion
• Eczema Honey Gentle Face and Body Lotion Stick
• Acure Everyday Eczema Lotion
• Rowe Casa Organics Skin Soothe Lotion 

When and Where to Use Each Type

• Ointments: Severe dry patches, overnight treatments, winter months

• Creams: Daily full-body moisturizer, especially after bathing

• Lotions: Non-flare areas or quick rehydration during the day

How to Apply Moisturizers for Maximum Results

Use the Soak and Seal Method:

1. Take a lukewarm bath or shower (5–10 minutes)
2. Gently pat dry (leave skin slightly damp)
3. Apply moisturizer within 3 minutes to lock in hydration

✔ Apply at least twice a day (more if needed)
✔ Use upward strokes—don’t rub harshly
✔ Apply medication before moisturizer if prescribed by your doctor

Ingredients to Look For in Eczema-Friendly Products

✔ Ceramides – strengthen the skin barrier
✔ Colloidal oatmeal – soothes inflammation
✔ Glycerin – draws moisture into skin
✔ Shea butter – deep hydration
✔ Hyaluronic acid – locks in water

Avoid:
✖ Fragrances
✖ Essential oils
✖ Alcohol-based formulations

Key Takeaways

✔ Ointments = Best for severe dryness and nighttime use
✔ Creams = Best for everyday eczema care
✔ Lotions = Light hydration, not ideal for flare-ups
✔ Apply moisturizer immediately after bathing and multiple times daily

Looking for eczema-friendly products?
We’ve curated a list of our favorite moisturizers, creams, and soothing skin essentials.
👉 Check them out HERE to find what works best for you!