How Will the Right Eczema Body Cleanser Help to Fight Your Itchy Skin?
Don’t Overlook the Benefits of an Effective Eczema Body Cleanser
Grappling with atopic dermatitis– known more commonly as eczema, is an uphill battle for many.
According to the International Eczema Council’s global report, approximately 20% of children and up to 10% of young adults (aged 20-25) worldwide suffered from eczema in 2022. Before seeking solutions to our dry and itchy skin problems, we must first understand the triggers or contributing factors behind them.
Naturally, genetics is a major cause of eczema-prone and itchy skin. Eczema tends to be hereditary, with certain genetic variations inhibiting the skin’s natural barrier against external irritants. One’s physical surroundings may also have an adverse impact on skin health.
For instance, contact with harsh chemicals or being in cold weather could contribute to dryness, inflammation and further itching. Stress and allergies (e.g. consuming gluten or exposure to dust mites) may also reduce one’s immune system and trigger itchy skin flare-ups.
Picking Out a Good Eczema Body Cleanser
Finding the right eczema body cleanser to combat itchy skin could make a world of a difference to your everyday comfort. What are some qualities that a good eczema body cleanser should have, and how do they effectively tackle itchy skin?
1. Gentle and Hydrating
When picking out an eczema body cleanser, always look at the ingredients it contains.
Good cleansers contain mild formulations with natural, organic, and soothing ingredients such as emollients and humectants.
Emollients such as jojoba oil contain fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants which form a protective layer over your skin, keeping it moisturised and increasing its elasticity.
Meanwhile, humectants like hyaluronic acid are substances that attract water from both the inner layers of the skin and the surrounding environment, keeping your skin hydrated.
2. Fragrance-Free
Both scented and unscented body cleansers contain chemicals that could potentially irritate the skin. Scented body cleansers contain fragrance chemicals which could trigger skin sensitivity and inflammation.
On the other hand, unscented body cleansers may possess odour-neutralising chemicals that remove any aroma from its product.
Getting a fragrance-free eczema body cleanser thus makes a much safer option for anyone with sensitive and eczema-prone skin.
3. Balanced pH
Do check that your eczema body cleanser contains a balanced pH to maintain your skin’s natural acidity levels. This is crucial as a balanced pH ensures proper skin barrier function. Should your skin barrier get damaged, it could result in dryness and increased skin sensitivity.
4. Skin Barrier Protection
Ingredients that both maintain and strengthen skin barrier function in an eczema body cleanser can prevent moisture loss, reduce the risk of external irritants penetrating your skin, guard against environmental stressors such as cold and dry weather, and promote overall skin health.
One key ingredient that supports skin barrier function is ceramide. Ceramides are a kind of fat molecule that occur naturally in the outermost layer of our skin. They not only maintain the integrity of our skin barrier, but also repair it when it gets damaged. Individuals with eczema-prone, itchy skin tend to lack these essential lipids, which is why it’s so encouraged to use ceramide-infused skincare products!
Invest in an Eczema Body Cleanser That Addresses Your Concerns
Whether it’s itchy, peeling or inflamed skin, finding a suitable eczema body cleanser isn’t so hard once you’ve done your research. Everybody’s skin is unique and what works for someone else might not work for you too. If you or someone you know suffers from eczema, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist for some personalised insight. With a fitting eczema body cleanser and a holistic skincare routine, you can finally be more comfortable in your own skin.
Check out our ceramide-containing Coosteam Body Cleanser for sensitive and eczema-prone skin here!