When I was a child, I had severe eczema behind my knees, so much so that it was difficult to wear tights or trousers. The fabric rubs against my skin and hurts terribly. But I live in Massachusetts so there’s no way I’d wear shorts in the middle of winter. What many people don’t understand about eczema is that it is not only inconvenient or embarrassing, but it can also be painful.
The National Eczema Association defines eczema as “an inflammatory skin condition that causes itching, dryness, rashes, scaly patches, blisters, and skin infections.” It’s hugely popular, and over 31 million Americans have some form of it. I had very severe eczema as a child, and as I got older it became much milder – this is also common. Basically, I’m getting older, but I still have flare-ups from time to time.
Luckily, I have an arsenal of skincare to help minimize flare-ups. One over-the-counter product that has time and again prevented the inflammation and pain of eczema is the Codex Beauty Beer Skin Superfood ($35).
Finally, I use this product almost daily in the fall and winter — I’ll apply it throughout the day on the “problem” areas, aka the flaking and dry areas during the cold months. more, like elbows, arms, and knuckles. The full-body formula absorbs very quickly, so while deeply hydrating the skin, it doesn’t leave a greasy or greasy finish (and it doesn’t clog pores). While there is a scent, it is super light. If you’re applying it to your face, just remember to avoid your eyes (if you’re getting eczema on your eyelids, call your dermatologist!).
“This has changed my skin in less than a week,” said one reviewer. “I used this on problem areas [like] elbows and heels, and in just a few days, my skin became soft and smooth. Can’t recommend this highly enough,” another wrote.
It’s no surprise that moisturizers are recognized by both the National Eczema Association and the National Psoriasis Foundation.
But related story
What a derm said
We reached out to Dr. Anat Lebow, MD, board-certified dermatologist, to explain the best ways to combat this very common skin condition. “If you have eczema, moisturize, moisturize, moisturize,” Dr. Lebow advises. “Eczema is both a genetic and environmental condition. She explains that prevention is the key to therapy, making the effort to apply products that are beneficial to sensitive skin is extremely helpful.
So why is this particular product from Codex worth the investment if you have eczema? Lebow explains that it’s all about the ingredients. “Skin-moisturizing superfood Bias soothes dry skin and reduces flaking.” But bottom line: Natural ingredients are game changers: myrtle (an anti-inflammatory that can help reduce redness), aloe vera (soothes redness, soothes irritation), oil infusion calendula (moisturizes and soothes, helps protect skin), and the list goes on.
When I had a chance to talk to Dr. Lebow, I revealed that as a child, I had eczema the most in the interstitial spaces (behind the knees, knuckles, even eyelids). Dr. Lebow explains: “Sure, this is very common. As children, we scratch where we can reach—and that’s usually our face.”
But even as an adult, if you’re experiencing itchy rashes in areas like your knuckles or eyelids, seek out a medical professional who can talk to your specific needs. Codex cream was a game changer for me as a preventative product. But if you’re having a severe flare-up, you’ll want to contact your doctor, who can suggest something specific. In my experience, when I get a red rash on my eyes (one of the most sensitive areas you can get eczema), I need a prescription ointment.
But I can’t tell you how helpful it is to have an over-the-counter cream available, as someone who has had eczema all his life. I’ll leave you with some professional advice from Dr. Lebow. “Absolutely avoid perfumes and irritants like retinol or lactic acid. Key point? Avoid triggers that have led to your flare-ups in the past.”
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