Your Stories - Moisturisers and Emollients

I make my own cream - Steve, London, UK

Our son developed eczema when he was about two months old, it started on his folds then spread to the rest of his body, the only area that was spared was his nappy region.

I can only tell you what worked for our son, it’s not a cure but the treatment we have discovered has improved his skin 99.9% to the point where we don’t consider he has eczema anymore just very sensitive skin.
As with any treatment you should patch test first as every baby is different.

We tried all the creams and ointments the doctors could prescribe but his skin just seemed to be getting worse, we were just putting 50/50 on him in the end and he was screaming when it was applied. So I decided to investigate if there was any alternative treatment, using the internet I discovered all these ointments are mineral oil based and mineral oil can be very drying for the skin they also they contain some very worrying chemicals one being SLS (sodium laurel
sulphate) which started life as an industrial degreaser. SLS is also hidden in emulsifying wax.
I just couldn’t believe that they were asking us to put this stuff on our baby!!

After a lot of research I now make my own cream using unrefined shea butter, karanja oil, jojoba oil and coconut oil. I fill a beaba 300ml jar with the shea butter melt this submerged up to the lid in hot water (you have to keep refilling the hot water till the shea butter is melted) then add 50ml of karanja oil and 50 ml of jojoba oil two tea spoons of coconut oil stir well. This can all be brought from Shea butter cottage. I have been using this since January 2008 and his skin has improved beyond belief. You need to try this for at least a month to see improvement.

For bathing I use porridge oats wrapped in a muslin cloth secured with elastic band, run this under the hot tap and squeeze in the bath water, this helps soothe itching skin.

If you are using hydrocortisone we have found you have to wean the skin off of it by applying it for two weeks then every other day for one week then every third day and so on, otherwise you get a rebound affect where the skin just flares up worse again.

Other useful tips:
Don’t use Johnsons top and tail on a new born babies skin.
Use Surcare washing powder and always do an extra rinse.
Make sure the baths not too hot no more than 36.4 degrees.
Use 100% cotton clothing. Keep them on the cool side of warm.
Use cotton wool and plain water when changing nappies.
Cut and file nails as short as possible.
Use a baby sleeping bag if age and temperature appropriate to stop them itching their body while asleep.
Use an anti-allergen mattress cover.

Good luck I hope this will/has helped someone else with this terrible curse. (July 2008)

Aveeno cream & Manuka Honey Product helps our daughter - Suzanne, Bude, UK

My 4 year old daughter has had problems with her skin since she was born. She gets stubborn dry areas around her waist, face and back of the neck. It can all flare up red and sometimes her skin breaks on her wrists. I got really fed up so started on the internet. We tried Freederm Hc from USA, she complained of stinging and we didn't see any improvement. We are now using a manuka honey product for eczema. We use it very sparingly as if it was a steroid and it seems to be working. We are also using for the first time, Aveeno cream, it's the first cream we have put on her that really stops her skin feeling dry and lasts well overnight. At the moment her skin is at it's best for a long time. (June 2008) Contact Suzanne

PEP 50 works for me - Julie, Liverpool, UK

I have very bad eczema and have tried lots of different products. I have recently tried a product called PEP 50 which I bought from the E-Bay shop. I paid £11.99 and it was free postage and packaging. I can honestly say that it is the BEST cream I have ever tried and an added bonus is that it is a huge tub so will last me about 2 months. (June 2008) Contact Julie

Acid Mantel Skin Restorer - Maria, USA

I am suggesting a miracle lotion that you can buy at Cost Co. That was the least expensive place. A 16 oz tub is about $37. But well worth it. It is called Acid Mantel, skin restorer , pH balancer. My son's eczema is gone. I am so happy my Mom suggested this. What a miracle. No chemicals. We use it about twice a day and for sure after his bath. (January 2008)

Shielding Lotion - Louise, Walsall, UK

I have discovered a new way of treating eczema. It is called a "shielding lotion" and it bonds with the outer layer of skin to form an invisible barrier against irritants. It cannot be washed off and does not cause reactions. It can be used in conjunction with steroid creams. I have been using it for nearly a week and my skin is so much better. Hope this helps someone. (January 2008)

Aveeno Moisturising Lotion - Jay, London, UK

My daughter has suffered with eczema for 15 years. The only cream that has worked for her is Aveeno moisturising lotion with cooling menthol. The menthol stopped her itching and for the first time in her life, she has smooth skin. Please give this a try, everyone I have told is over the moon about it. (January 2008) Contact Jay

Creams that have worked for me - Lydia, West Sussex, UK

Hi my name is Lydia I am 12 years old and have had eczema since I was a baby. I have tried so many different remedies on my skin no wonder I have spots! my mum always says it is our cat and she is probably right! I would say go to the doctors and try new creams out! the only problem is I always am going down to the doctors they gave me three creams one Betnovate or however it is spelt most people may have heard of this. It works but.... I got it just after coming back form holiday when I had a tan! It made white blotches where my eczema had been and it made me soo upset. This is a warning. But I just say try new things out. I am there for everyone suffering because I know how it feels I cry soo much about it and I hate myself to pieces! I love wearing make-up but it brings my eczema out! so try not putting make-up where your eczema is also put gloves or long socks over your hands at night as it prevents you from scratching and just moisturise your skin all day! it will make your skin softer and not so dry! Pets make it worse as I found out. But still love having a cat. But also I found out that strawberries bring out my eczema very badly and a friend of mine found out fish brings out hers so when your eczema flares up see what you ate and next time you have it see if it flares up. Thanks xx (Contact November)

Vaseline works for me - Richard, Milton Keynes, UK

I am 49 and had Eczema most of my life in the common form behind my knees and around my ankles, sometimes bad, sometimes worse. A few months ago after a sudden loss in my family, it went mad and just about covered me even onto my back. There was nothing I could do, and hated even going to bed because it seemed every night brought on the itch scratch cycle while I was half dozing. I tried even sleeping in lose clothes, which helped slightly, but I still had the terrible dry skin. I had tried all the usual steroids, emollients etc. but it just came back worse. I saw this site and on somebody's recommendation bought a vitamin c style shower filter. I changed my diet to include oily fish and drank less tea and more fresh Orange and Grape juice. I also found a new Moisturiser!!! Vaseline Intensive Rescue Moisture Locking Body Lotion. Thanks Tesco!!! I thought I'd give it a try on the "nothing to lose basis". What a difference.....this stuff really does work after 2 days the difference is better than changing my diet or the shower filter put together. Go and buy...better still...go and buy all the things above and good luck to you. I can safely say with using this stuff ...I go the whole day without an itch ... it's broken the cycle and all for £3.50!!! Good Luck, and No I'm not on commission!!! (November 2007) Contact Richard

Petroleum Jelly - Selina, Wolverhampton, UK

Hi I'm 17 and got a really bad case of eczema over a year ago. I tried all of the products the doctor recommended but nothing worked and steroids were useless. My skin weeped and everything. About 6 months ago I was recommended Boots petroleum jelly (like Vaseline but purer so less likely to cause a reaction) and I found my skin cleared up alot. The redness went down and it stopped weeping. I then turned to Clinique. It is really expensive but its so worth it, my skin is now looking so much better no one can tell I ever had eczema. I hope this is helpful. (October 2007)
Contact Selina

Fucibet and Epaderm - Julie-Ann, Dorset, UK

My daughter has what they call it severe eczema and has suffered for a very long time with it she was first diagnosed when she was 6 weeks old with infantile eczema I was given Oilatum and it cleared but soon after her 1st birthday it appeared from no where over night she was covered from head to toe we were then referred to see a dermatologist at local hospital we were given all kinds of steroid creams and antibiotics we have had countless hospital and doctors visits we have also had endless stays in hospital which is hard as I have another child. Well that was nearly 3 years ago and we have been given different creams antibiotics steroids and none have really worked since then my only wish is that she will grow out of it cause of her age I don't like having to see her suffer its so hard as a mother to watch her cry in pain my daughter is now on a steroid cream Fucibet and Epaderm she has also just finished her course of antibiotics which was Erythromycin. (August 2007) Contact Julie-Ann

Aveeno works for me - Susan, Jamaica

Hi, I just wanted to say that I have proven what I had always thought about eczema: what works for me might not work for you, but keep on trying. Someone gave me an Aveeno skin moisturizer fragrance free lotion for myself and I was out of Mustela for Rachel and decided to use it on her. She only flares mostly on the knees and outside of her elbows now. I hope it stays this way, but it has been some weeks now and usually the good effects last for only two weeks. I myself for some reason started getting reactions from fruits around my mouth and I used the Aveeno and it has helped. I am not saying it is the cure but try it, if it does not work try until you find the right one because there is something out thre that is compatible to your skin. Don't try products for the first time by buying full size, get samples or mini travel sizes, that way you don't waste much cash if it does not work. All the best and never give up. (June 2007)
Contact Susan


We've tried everything and want a natural treatment - Susan, Jamaica

Hi, My name is Susan. I have a two year old daughter name Rachel, and she has had eczema since three months old. She had it from head to toe! No part of her body was spared; I could not take her any where. If she was in a blanket when I lift her the flakes from the skin would fall off. They started her off on steroids, and each time I stopped, it would come back worse. The doctors then started mixing antibiotics with the steroids, at one point she looked half white. After she would go to bed I would cry at night because although I removed all the possible allergens, she was suffering. She was only breastfed, but sometimes I myself would eat the things that could trigger a flare, but at that time had not made the link. We started to take her to a top dermatologist, costing us over $20,000 a month, transportation to the capital City being the most costly. The coal tar and sulphur based concoction worked for a while, but we could not afford the trips.

When she was just over a year old, we heard of Protopic, and believed me it worked, and it did not discolor her skin. It was costing us $6,000 at $100 US a tube. To our horror we heard about the FDA advisory on it, and decided that as bad as the eczema was, the possibility of getting cancer was much worse. So it was back to the steroids, and I used the Elocon when she was bad and sometimes when she was not too bad, baking soda baths and sea salt. She had a bad flare, was recently prescribed Dermavate plus Tetra ointment, and I am just tired of the steroids. But in my country although there is an increase in the cases of eczema, no effort is being made to offer treatments aside from steroids to treat it. I can’t even get Aveeno for babies, Eucerin or other moisturizing creams meant for it. Right how her arms are sore and I don’t know what to put under it, for fear the steroid is too potent for it.

If there is any mom who has tried Hope’s Relief crème and Supersalve skincare balm and it has really helped please let me know. I will get someone to buy it abroad for me, but I need real honest feedback from someone who has used these products, they seem to have very good ingredients. Due to being on the steroids so long, and not being able to have dairy products some of her teeth have gone bad, especially due to the fact that she had teethed at three months (her brother did too).

I am taking one day at a time. At one point she almost had no hair, her hair is growing now, but can be extremely dry. What I found helpful for her hair is jojoba oil, and the green Dax hair oil on the end makes it soft. I have started using Redken ALL SOFT conditioner which I bought to try and I am impressed. When I am out of the jojoba oil, which I apply on the scalp nightly, her hair gets thin, so I know the jojoba oil really works. Any hair products with egg or milk ingredients get her scalp flakey. I know what can help her scalp, I just wished I knew what could help her skin, naturally. (February 2007) Contact Susan


Moisturiser that works! - Andy, London, UK

I've spent a good 20 years or so in search of a moisturiser for my face that works. I've found a few that seem to work short term and hundreds that exacerbate the eczema. I settled on Shiseido for a while but at £35 for a small bottle it wasn't feasible for too long. I have now discovered that Simple Moisturiser (the plain one with no additives) does an amazing job for my body and Simple Regeneration Plus "Anti wrinkle firming cream" is near miraculous for my face. Obviously it's aimed at a different age of skin (I'm mid thirties) but that's probably why it works. Neither cause any irritation at all (a first). The Plain moisturiser is around £3.50 per bottle (Superdrug or Boots in the UK) and the Regeneration Plus is a tad pricey at £13.50 but is often on 2-for-1.

Try it, if it works for you like it does me you'll be over the moon. I look 10 years younger instantly (no longer appearing to be 50!) and it lasts for most of the day. (January 2007) Contact Andy

Skin Salvation - Jane, Newcastle, UK

I have suffered with eczema all of my life. I am 48 Since 2005 I've been using range of products made by Skin Salvation. I have been using the course as instructed and I am delighted to say it is works for me!.If any body else is struggling to find relief from this problem,it may worth them at least looking at the site to see if they can compare situations, rgds Jane. (January 2007) Contact Jane

Freederm HC - Shauna, Southampton, UK

After reading some comments and questions about a product called Freederm HC, I felt the need to write in. I have suffered with eczema all of my life but more particularly in the last 2 years on my face. It has caused me much grief, as I'm sure know. I had tried every moisturiser, emollient, steroid cream and non-steroid cream on the planet with few lasting results. In desperation I did an Internet search and came across Freederm HC (www.freederm.com) which I ordered on the promise that if it didn't work I could get my money back. That was 8 months ago and I have not needed to use another cream since. It is amazing. If I do have an outbreak, then I simply apply the cream and within an hour my skin has calmed down. I am not exaggerating when I say that this cream has been a God send! I urge you to try it and if it doesn't work, then the website say they will refund you and you have lost nothing anyway. Good luck! (January 2007)

Moisturiser Mixture - Emma, London, UK

My daughter has had atopic eczema since she was 9 months old. I have tried everything from Eumovate ointment to Dead Sea salts. She is now 3 years old and the only thing I have found that gives her any comfort is Hemp oil. I mix half a tub of Aqueous cream and half a tub of Epaderm cream with half a cup of hemp oil and a few drops of Lavender oil.
This mixture seems to keep her skin moisturised for longer and reduces the severe outbreaks she normally suffers.

The only other thing that can also work is the cracked nipple cream Kamillosan, although this is an expensive option but has good results. (January 2007) Contact Emma

Fucibet is the one for me! - Michael, Northamptonshire, UK

Like many others on this site I have suffered for many years (since the age of 2 I think) with eczema. I am now 28 and until recently my hands (which have been the worst part) were red raw from where I had been itching. The ends of my nails were cracked and the skin on my fingertips was dry and cracked. This was horrible as I am currently renovating a house and every time I went to pick something heavy up they cracked open and started bleeding. After a long period of use of Elcon cream this caused the skin to thin beyond belief. One slight little knock caused a big crack to appear. After 4 months of pain and being conscious of people seeing my hands I decided to visit the Doc's again. I advised that I had been using various creams/moisturisers as an alternative to soap and also use after I wash my hands. I even used baby oil to try and keep my hands moist but this still didn’t work. He advised me to try Fucibet cream (60g). I didn’t think this was going to work and all I could think about was the cost of £6.80 for the prescription being a waste of money.... How wrong I was. This cream is amazing! I have used almost every type of cream and none of them have had effects like this. I have been using Fucibet for 1 week now and I cannot believe how my hands look. I don’t think that they have every looked this well. All of the dry skin has gone and there are no red patches. My nails are still bumpy from the use of the other cream but they have now started to grow straight and it looks like the cuticles are starting to re-attach to the nail. After years of suffering this cream has ended it in a week. I don’t normally advise people on medicine as I am not sure of what the ingredients would do but this one is great. It contains a steroid and an anti-biotic but I am sure your doctor can tell you more about them. (November 2006) Contact Michael

Advice on Creams needed - Sharlene, Milton Keynes, UK

My son Colby has had eczema from 6 wks of age and is now 16 months old. I have taken him to a dermatologist and he's had so many creams to the point she said she could do no more!! His skin would have the odd good day regardless of whether he had cream on or no,t but even now it's still bad. My son was also diagnosed with a severe heart disease in June and if the eczema becomes infected it's not good for his heart. I am STILL pushing to be seen by a specialist consultant for eczema in Oxford now. He's on anti b's as his skin is infected again and has now been given Vallergan by doctor to try and ease the itching and to help him sleep but that has not worked and I also think it is not the answer! I was told they would not allergy test him because he's not bring sick or doesn't have an obvious allergy to something else!! (told by top hospital)! I screamed at my doctor the next day to demand he refer us for allergy testing which he has done so hopefully hear back soon. Anyone with advice on creams they have used on children would be great thanks. (October 2006) Contact Sharlene

50/50 - Becks, UK

Unfortunately eczema is one annoying thing. I know. I've got a 5 month year old baby with it. It all started with bumps, then it got infected. When any body touched the face it was like touching a wet flannel and I'd do my best to keep my baby creamed. I'd been given plenty of antibiotics but by this time I had enough of creams and steroids. So the next I saw my doctor I demanded to see a dermatologist. When I did she couldn't believe the doctors had left him to get red like a wet tomato. So my poor little baby ended up having a drip in one foot. When the nurses came in they gave me all the help I needed and changed the creams to 50/50. It's like a tub of grease "never let the baby dry out always keep the body covered with baby grows and instead of using mittens use socks as there less harder to pull off", one of the nurses said, so that's what I did. When I came home I worked so hard to not let it dry out. I would be lying if I said it was easy. I had to use Eumovate ointment twice a day and 50/50 when ever I felt he was getting dry plus his baby bath Oilatum. No mother should have to suffer to see their child in pain scratching their skin to pieces, It sounds easy but it's no,t but it paid off. My baby looked brand new. We where both happy, me and my baby. My baby still has eczema but not as bad as before and the hot weather doesn't help it, but we also have a free play time where my baby can have hands free but I have to keep my eye on my baby. I would recommend mums to use 50/50. (August 2006)

Sudocrem - Ally, Bristol, UK

If like me, when your eczema flares up your skin breaks and you can't use your regular cream, use Sudocrem antiseptic cream. It speeds up the healing process so you can get back onto your regular cream. It's very mild and causes no irritation and kills any bacteria on your skin to prevent infection. Use it during the day and night for 1-2 days before going back on your regular cream. It's very white and hides any red, angry colouring that is produced by eczema. Hope this helps someone. (October 2005)
Contact Ally

Virgin Olive Oil for Eczema - Theresa, San Jose, USA

To all who will listen- (Any Virgin Olive Oil will cure your eczema rashes forever). I was 29 years of age when I broke out with "Severe hand eczema", it wasn't until three years later before I was blessed with a cure.  I am now 37 years of age living free of eczema and want to pass this cure on to as many people who will listen.  If it works for you, please promise me to use all the on-line method you know to pass this cure to all those living with eczema. Buy any over the counter virgin olive oil and apply all over any areas breaking out with eczema for 1 week, 1 month to 6 months and watch your eczema despair forever. Be patient and see if you don't see a difference in your break-out and rashes as the weeks go by. When I had the severe break-outs, even touching water hurts my sores and made it worst. Try not washing your body parts with any water. Rather, pore Olive Oil over the areas and wipe off with a towel or paper towel. As it starts healing, you can start washing with water again. After you are cured, off and on if the eczema slightly returns, use it again and watch it disappear again and again. Olive Oil can be use on children and babies free of any harm to them (it has been proven to work on my sister's babies and got rid of theirs). Sincerely - A Child of God, whose prayers for a cure for eczema where answered.

PS it doesn't hurt to start cooking all your foods with Olive Oil as well, since this is what I am doing also. (August 2005)

Curel lotion has helped my Eczema - Penelopy, USA

I've tried it all on my face - or at least I thought I had until stumbling across Curel lotion to treat my eczema. I've slapped oatmeal on my face, evening primrose oil, baby diaper rash cream, etc. Didn't want to go the prescription med route so my quest for an alternative proved to be a success. It may not work for everyone, but considering there are no risks involved with this over-the-counter hand, body and face lotion - taking into account you have no allergic reaction to any of the ingredients (read the label) - I see nothing to lose, but everything to gain. Curel has an "Ultra Healing" 24-hour daily moisturizing lotion for extra-dry skin that is fragrance-free, and it works for me. (July 2005) Contact Penelopy

Oilatum Natural Repair Cream - Gail

I have received a number of emails asking me about this product. I discovered it by chance in Boots. It has no preservatives, emulsifiers or fragrances and is made by Stiefel. They also make a face repair cream, but it has extra ingredients so I wouldn't use it. I tried this on my 10 year old daughter who developed facial eczema out of the blue. I had tried numerous creams, steroids, etc, from my GP, with no result. Oilatum Natural Repair Cream is made from natural plant lipids. It costs about £7.40 for a small tube, but I found it well worth it. I have been told that it is available on prescription by someone who lives in England. (July 2005) Contact Gail

Eumobase works for me - Greg, London, UK

I only have one thing to say and that is Eumobase. I have rather chronic eczema which up until now has affected me every day of my life. I tried Eumobase for the first time and it has changed my life completely. While it is rather a thick ointment a little greasy and quite expensive it has brought my skin under control and its just about fully rehydrated and healed. It is well worth the 7 quid or so it costs if I have to buy ten tubes a month to live a normal life. Very happy. (March 2005) Contact Greg

Creme de la Mer, worth every penny - Jane, Vancouver, Canada

I used to have extreme reactions to even some so called "sensitive skin" products where my skin would thicken and dry out to the point that it wouldn't absorb any moisture no matter what was applied and would have the texture of a flaky lizard. After a few days, the skin would have usually evolved so that it was incredibly red and had the consistancy of burnt skin, raw and thick. It would usually get to the point where even water hurt and nothing was thick enough to help with the texture and dryness of the skin without making me break out. I'm here to say there's hope. I completely recommend spectroderm for the times where the eczema is really on the war path, and spectrojel for the milder times. Spectroderm I found was the only thing that didn't sting my face when I used it as a cleanser and the emollients in it were incredibly moisturizing. Spectrojel I recommend as well for those also suffering from acne prone skin, its antibacterial as well as moisturizing. For moisturizer , I recommend a combination of cetaphil and creme de la mer. Cetaphil is great because it doesn't clog up pores, but the real prize is the la mer cream. While it is quite costly (about $150CA), it's worth every penny. During the times where my skin felt like it was burnt and raw (and disgusting as it might sound, while it was oozing that clear liquid that eventually hardens the skin into a scab like texture), this was the only thing that could alleviate it. This cream made my skin feel and look like skin, and it also improved the overall texture and reduced wrinkles. Only a dab is usually required because with this cream, a little goes a long way. One jar of the stuff lasted me about a year, and I think that $12.50 a month for great skin is a more than fair trade. T hough many may think that these expensive creams are just rip offs and dont really differ from regular creams, my (finally, normal and healthy looking) skin and I are here to say that you get what you pay for with this brand. (March 2005) Contact Jane

Baby Magic and Calomine Lotion - Elaine

I just wanted to share with someone that I mixed Mennen's Baby Magic and Calamine lotion together and my eczema went away. That was approximately 30 years ago. I don't know what the measurements might be but probably about 3 parts Baby Magic to 1 part calamine lotion. Caladryl lotion will not work or it didn't work for me. I have shared this 'recipe' with a few friends and relatives but would like for everyone to know you can get relief without an expensive prescription or other lotions. I had been to doctors for years trying to get some relief and this is the only thing I have ever had that would give me that relief. (January 2005)

Freederm - Amy, Rochester, USA

I have had eczema for 2 and 1/2 years I have tried freederm cream and it works well on my back, I have no eczema on my back. I researched it and asked my dermatologist if it appeared safe to use. He said yes. www.freederm.com try it. (November 2004) Contact Amy

A few moisturisers that work for us - Clare, Lancashire, UK

My son is 12 months old and suffered from severe eczema since he was about 6 weeks. I tried EVERYTHING. I have now discovered a couple of bath emollients and body creams that work the best. I have also found it is good to alternate the creams every couple of weeks. I also find that if he has the slightest sign of an outbreak anywhere on his body, if I apply a thin layer of steroid cream straight away it prevents him getting a severe attack (this was a tip from a dermatologist). The best creams are AVEENO, DOUBLE BASE (on prescription as recommended by the dermatologist) and good old VASELINE! The bath emollients I use are OILATUM JUNIOR BATH and one that I get on prescription (recommended by dermatologist).. this one also stops itching for up to 8 hours.. and is called BALNEUM PLUS. I also tried a cream called DERMATIQUE which is made from natural ingredients, this is a very good moisturiser and keep the skin soft for a long time, it is however expensive for a small tub. (November 2004) Contact Clare

Unrefined Shea Butter - Vicky, London, UK

Unrefined shea butter has done wonders for my nine month old. In a matter of hours from first using it she stopped scratching, in 24 hours her skin had started healing, and now you would hardly know she had eczema. Previously I had tried all kinds of moisturisers, and nothing stopped her scratching. I was reluctant to use steroids but occasionally would have to for a couple of days, all the while knowing that as soon as I stopped she'd go back to square one.

Since we've started using shea butter I haven't had to use steroid creams and she hardly scratches. It really was the miracle treatment I was hoping for, and as it's great to be able to use as much as I like on her, knowing it's not full of harsh chemicals.

As an eczema sufferer myself, I really felt for my daughter when she was obviously uncomfortable, and it's been great to feel I can actually do something for her.

Shea Butter Cottage (look for it online) is a great source of reasonably priced, fairtrade shea butter. It's an odd texture, smelly, but absolutely wonderful stuff. I can't recommend it highly enough. (October 2004)

Tibetan Skin Disease Ointment - Tomika, Fairfax, VA, USA

A traditional Chinese medicine called Tibetan skin disease ointment has worked great for my one year old with eczema. You can read about it at www.thejamushop.com . It worked in a matter of days for my son, who used to scratch so much it kept him from sleeping at night. Now, the skin on his arms and the back of his legs is smooth. I highly recommend looking into this product to see if it would be right for you. Not trying to sell this product or offer false hope, just trying share something that worked for us. (October 2004)

Papaya Butter Butter - Naina, London, UK

I would like to share a good find with you all. I have had flaky eczema since I was 3 yrs (am now 29). I know you know how miserable life can be with this. My skin is now smooth thanks to Papaya Body Butter from The Body Shop. I used to have to keep reapplying moisturiser throughout the day, no more! After a few weeks my skin was free of scaly flaky patches. I have been using this cream for about a year now and I've noticed that scars are reduced also. I am very happy indeed. Please try this product, you wont be disappointed. Good luck. Naina. (October 2004)

Freederm HC - Jeanette, Guisborough, UK

I have a 4 year old daughter, Emma, who has suffered horrifically for the past 2 years with eczema. I feel like those lovely years between 2 and 4 years old have been stolen away from me. Has anyone heard of or used Freederm HC cream? I came across it on the Internet and it claims to be a miracle cream - have sent off for a jar as we are so desperate, but is it to good to be true? (October 2004)

Urea Cream - Anne-Marie, Ohakune, New Zealand

My husband had diagnosed eczema on his back, and after many years of cortisone creams and preparations from the pharmacy, I used the Urea Cream I use on my dry legs in summer, and after 2 weeks the red raised lesions were gone, and now, apart from one period where he was away from home for a few days, the back remains itch free and clear provided I rub the cream in every morning after his shower. I don't know if it will work for everyone, but it's certainly been a blessing in our household. (September 2004)

Fluide Prodigieux - Gina, Ohio, USA

Recently I tried Fluide Prodigieux by NUXE. It is a natural moisturizer made in France. I purchased it through BeautyExclusives on the web. For me it was a miracle, within a day my patches peeled and began to heal. (And they were on my face- quite not attractive. The ingredients are all natural and it has a beautiful scent, which amazingly did not further stress the condition. I bought a bottle to keep on hand for my family for any type of rash or inflammation that may occur. Hope this helps someone else too. (September 2004)

Melaleuca - Karen, Peterborough, UK

My son has suffered from eczema since he was a baby. I have recently discovered a company that is new to the UK called Melaleuca. All the products are chemical and toxin free. I have been using the children's range on him plus the intensive skin therapy cream. His eczema cleared up within 2 weeks!! I have recommenced this to other people and so far each and every person who had eczema has now found relief. These products are also great for psoriasis and migraine as they do not contain chemicals. (September 2004)

Viscopaste - Jenni, County Durham, UK

I have found a really good product in the chemists for use with the wet wrapping technique. It is called Viscopaste - I'm not trying to advertise it or anything but this stuff is great. Basically it is a white tar bandage which takes the redness and swelling out of eczema. I have found it best to put my normal creams on then wrap this stuff round and then put a wet bandage over the top to keep it all in place. This has worked wonders for me - I can even wear skirts without feeling self conscious. Yey!!
(August 2004)

Lincacare - Jen, Vancouver, Canada

I recently came across this incredible product sitting right under my nose and I didn't even know it and now I can't live without it. I've had eczema ever since a young age and I've gone through all the usual stuff from diets to steroid creams you name it. Finally I go see a new doctor who recommends I try this new product called Linacare that just happens to be based out Vancouver. The stuff works wonders! I've never felt as good about my skin ever in my life. I use it every day now and I haven't broken up since. I just HAVE to share this with everyone. (August 2004)

Aveeno Moisturiser - Lena, Bristol, UK

I have picked up a couple of really good products from your website in the past and so thought I would drop you a line to recommend one I have found recently. Aveeno moisturiser with oatmeal (Johnson & Johnson) has been greatly beneficial to my skin and I would recommend it to those who don't like to use the prescribed steroid creams. I have found it very effective. (July 2004)

Aderma Cream - Daisy, London, UK

I would also like to endorse Aderma cream. They do an "exomega" range which is specifically designed towards the treatment of eczema and having tried about 8 other products on my young baby this one worked, it seemed like a miracle. It was recommended to me by my sister in law who is a pharmacist in the South of France where this range of products is widely used for treating eczema. I must point out that it only worked on the eczema on his face and scalp but has not worked on the eczema behind his knees. (July 2004)

Gammaderm feels good - Jennie, Llanon, Wales,

First of all, I'd like to let you all know that you can get a free sample of Gammaderm cream if you visit their website and complete the questionnaire.(www.linderma.co.uk). I just got my free tube today and it feels good so far!

In case it's of any interest, or help, here's a summary of my eczema throughout my life.

As a baby, I apparently had quite severe eczema (atopic). This continued through early childhood. My parents tried all the usual stuff: diet, emollients, steroid creams, gloves, my Mum even used to sleep on top of my arms so I couldn't scratch in the night! Eventually I "grew out" of the eczema, by the time I was 7 it was just a bit on my legs, and by teenage just a little behind my knees.

At age 16, I suddenly got eczema on my hands. It was not very bad, just a few of my knuckles were very dry and would crack and bleed. This was at the same time as my exams at school, and looking back, it may have been brought on by stress. I used to treat this with steroid creams and emollients, and bandaging at night when it was at its worst. I suppose this phase must of lasted for a couple of years, again gradually fading away over maybe five years or so.

The next phase of eczema seemed to come "out of the blue". after a couple of years of nothing other than very dry, sensitive skin, I suddenly developed eczema on my face. Having not had any on my face since I was too young to remember it, I did find it nasty! It's around the bottom of my nose, and the corners of my mouth, and occasionally on my eyelids, and part of my ear. It's very itchy, to the extent of "burning" when its really bad.

Of course, when this first started, I had no "proper" creams, as I had not suffered eczema for quite a while. All I had was E45 that I used for "normal" dry skin. I used this, but it actually made it worse. By the time I got myself to the doctor, the eczema was infected. I was prescribed Fucibet which did clear it up ok but I have been relying on that for far too long now, it's not supposed to be used like I have been using it, basically as a moisturiser on an almost daily basis, for about four years now, just to keep the symptoms at bay.

So that's my story up to date, just starting to try the Gammaderm as a day to day cream for the eczema on my face. Fingers crossed!

Currently, I am also experimenting with what most people would call "a normal skincare regime"! As I'm 30, I'm starting to think about wrinkles, crows feet etc, on what bits of my face are not eczema! As I had never used any make-up whatsoever, nor washed my face with anything but plain warm water, even a bit of moisturiser and cleanser seem exotic! I've been using Boots own brand Unperfumed Facial Wash, combined Cleanser and Toner, and Moisturiser. Then I put eczema treatment on where I need that. So far its been ok but my forehead is a bit pimply, so maybe the moisturiser is too heavy? Like I said, its all foreign territory for me! Perhaps I'm trying to make a silk purse out of a sows ear anyway, what with the eczema scarring and thread veins from too much steroid cream. If anyone has any advice on how to look after the "normal" skin on my face, I would be very grateful! (July 2004)

Oilatum Junior Cream - Jessica, Worcester, UK

I have had eczema since I was born. I've just turned sixteen and I've decided that since I'm going to have few months with nothing to do, I'll try everything I can to make a difference to my skin, ready for my new college in September. I know my eczema isn't as bad as some, but the constant itching makes just lying in bed uncomfortable. I know my boyfriend must get irritated when I wont even let him touch my because my skin is so hot and irritable. I think it's time to do something about it. I have been to the doctors, they gave me steroid after steroid. Some work for a couple of weeks, then it returns, same as ever. Red spots on my arms, red dry rash on my face and neck. I have recently had to start taking tablets to help me sleep, as I was at a complete loss after having only an hour or two of sleep per night back in February. Also, the thing about it being triggered by stress is definitely true. I am going through my GCSE's, so maybe that doesn't help. Sorry to have a big rant, it's just that I enjoyed reading other people's stories, as it made me feel like I wasn't the only one with this horrible condition. Maybe my story can give people some hope. I know I'm not looking forward to the summer if my eczema doesn't get any better. I find that my face gets very very hot and sore, so my advice to anyone who suffers this is to keep maybe a damp flannel or an eye-mask in the fridge and just sting in an arm chair listening to some relaxing music, patting or laying it on your face, and just relaxing helps more than any creams. I do however take a tube of Oilatum Junior cream everywhere with me. I know it is for babies, but it is the best moisturiser ever. Because it is made for children, it has no harmful ingredients. I put it on whenever my face gets a little dry. My friends don't care. If I get it out, I pass it round, and they put it on their hands or faces too. I recommend trying it. It can't do any harm, or maybe some good. (June 2004)

Vaseline - Ruby, Melbourne, Australia

I've had eczema since birth, and I can say I've tried over 700 creams, ointments, lotions, diets, therapies, tonics, medicines, pills, you name it. None have cured my eczema, although I have discovered something (by accident, actually) that helps a little.

I soaked for a few minutes in a lukewarm bath, and all this dry, dead skin came off. I got quite scared, because as I have eczema, I usually don't have a bath, so I didn't really know what was going to happen.

So, in my panic, I got out of the bath, and straight away whacked on some Vaseline, which was the first jar I found in the cupboard.

I found later, that Vaseline is one of the best things you can use, and after a bath it seals the moisture in.

Today I saw a doctor, and he said I should apply Vaseline about 8 times a day, take a special steroid tablet twice a day, and apply a special steroid cream about 3 times daily.

He's going to see me in a week, and see if the very high maintenance has worked a little. If there is no improvement, I'm off to the hospital to have steroid shots and cold compresses every hour.

But he said this is very unlikely, and not to worry, because worrying is stressful, and stress skyrockets your eczema.

I'm sorry if this is long, but I do know a lot, from my experiences. I hope it helps. (June 2004)

Allergenics - Catherine, UK

I have just discovered you site on the Internet, it made me happy to think people are now uniting together to gather information about Eczema.

I looked with interest at the letters you had received from people advising on the use of different emollients. A few years ago I was at my "wits end" trying to find emollients which suited my skin. I had been advised by both nurses and doctors on different ranges to suit eczema suffers but none really suited my skin. A friend recommended the Allergenics product range, which includes shampoo, body wash, body lotion, emollient cream and ointment. Having had little success with products in the past I was very suspicious, but I purchased a tube of Allergenics non steroid moisturising cream. It worked perfectly with my skin, dry itchy patches started to clear up within days.

I now use everyone of these in my skin care routine, and unlike some other products I have never had a bad reaction to any of the Allergenics range Only recently someone recommended a supposedly Hypoallergenic emollient, which after only a few seconds on my skin started to bring me up in a rash.

The Allergenics range is made of purely natural ingredients, without perfume or preservatives. Even the most well known emollients still contain many artificial chemicals, which I personally believe can actually exacerbate dry, itchy skin rather than calm it.

Thanks to the Allergenics Products I now have skin which is almost completely clear of eczema, something I would not have thought possible a few years ago.

I would be interested to know if anyone else has tried the Allergenics products and if so were the improvements they gained as brilliant as the ones I had. You can buy Allergenics Products from Health Food Shops.
(May 2004)

Eumobase - Gillian, Dundee, Scotland

Thought I'd let you know I suffered from painful eczema on my hands only for 5-6 years and tried numerous over the counter and prescribed creams and ointments. Most irritated the condition even more and hydrocortisone thinned the skin making the problem worse. I have now used Eumobase cream for 5 months and have relief from pain and dryness and have only the odd easy to control 'flare-up'. It is quite expensive to buy when you need to use it regularly but well worth it. I'd recommend EUMOBASE to anyone suffering. (Jan 2004)

Gammaderm Cream - Colin, UK

Dear talkeczema

My name is Colin McNeill and I have suffered from eczema since I was
five years of age. I recently came across a new, exciting product called "Gammaderm Cream" - This product contains 20% Evening Primrose Oil in a light, non-greasy cream. Everyone with skin disorders knows that EPO is an excellent way to combat dry, flaky and inflamed skin. This product is the next, natural progression from "Epogam" capsules and is quickly absorbed to leave your skin feeling smooth and healthy. It is an excellent product and a more "natural" way to treat skin complaints than potent steroid creams. It is now available on the NHS in 50g and 250g tubes and your General Practitioner can prescribe it for you today. Early next year there will be a a new Gammaderm Bath Oil and Shower Emollient which will also be available on prescription. Since I am a sufferer I thought I would e-mail you today in case you are unaware of this new product. Please feel free to tell your associates, members and friends about "Gammaderm" and I am always happy to receive any emails about testimonials. The name of the company that manufacturers "Gammaderm" is Linderma. Their website address is - www.linderma.co.uk You can contact the Managing Director (Timothy Anscomb) at timothy.anscomb4@virgin.net who will be happy to answer any of your questions. You can also e-mail me at bradleystryder@hotmail.com if you need any more help. I hope to hear from you soon and I wish you all the success in the future. (Jan 2004)

Switching moisturisers now and again can help - Nate's Mum, Ohio, USA

I am an adult and have had at least moderate eczema my whole life. My dermatologist recommended Eucerin cream for me. My initial experience with it was pretty good. However, over the past 3 years or so, my eczema had gotten out of control, most recently requiring a hefty dose of cortisone. In addition, my skin always felt itchy and painfully dry, no matter how much Eucerin I applied. In desperation one day, I decided to switch moisturizers (to Curel Ultra-Healing). The difference was remarkable. I am now wondering if I had begun reacting to the Eucerin. (January 2004)

Baby Orajel's Gentle Natural Baby Eczema cream - Nancy, Ohio, USA

I have suffered from eczema on my legs for over 15 years. I have tried every cream and ointment available - steroids, cortisone, etc. I have even gone to the extremes of saran wrap, hemorrhoid creme, and other feminine products. I have finally found something that has literally cured my eczema - in four months. I know others in my family who have had the same problem, and it has cured theirs as well. Please pass on the word - Baby Orajel's Gentle Naturals Baby Eczema cream (green box/bottle). It is a miracle cure - no more itching unsightly rashes!!!! (October 2003)

Eumobase - Ossie, UK

Thank you for the recent sample of eumobase. I find that it has been a great help in controlling my granddaughter's eczema and shall continue to purchase it in the future. (October 2003)

Goats Milk Cream - Sophie, Sheffield, UK

I've always suffered from eczema but after a particularly bad flare up whilst doing my A levels. I started using goats milk cream. It worked immediately and reduced itchiness too. It contains natural ingredients and is steroid free. Look up Orba cosmetics on the Internet.(October 2003)

I sent for a Eumobase sample and it worked - Nicola, UK

HELLO, MY NAME IS NICOLA AND I LIVE IN THE UK. I HAVE BEEN SUFFERING FROM ECZEMA FOR 15 YEARS OR MORE. IT ERUPTS ON MY TOES AND FEET. I RECENTLY TRIED A NEW SAMPLE OF EUMOBASE AND THINK IT HAS BEEN THE BEST THAT HAS WORKED SO FAR. ALL THE ITCHING AND REDNESS HAS ABOUT GONE. I WILL BE INTENDING ON USING THIS CREAM CONTINUOUSLY! (September 2003)

Liquid Paraffin - Becki, London UK

My foster baby came to us with very dry skin and quickly developed terrible eczema. We went through all the usual stuff and he was being creamed 5 x daily but nothing really helped. Then my GP prescribed liquid paraffin and white soft paraffin. The baby's skin is now almost eczema free! It's a very simple, cheap treatment so I think it may get overlooked sometimes. Try it. (September 2003)

Elecon - DeAnna, Deltona, USA

I have tried many ways to rid of my daughters eczema. She has medication induced Eczema due to immunosuppressant meds she takes daily for a heart transplant. I currently use a cream called Elecon cream. It works but, I don't like the use of steroid creams frequently. I am in search for some remedies and when I get some I will write more information. Hope it all works out for the rest of you ... Thank you for your ideas ... DeAnna and Family. (August 2003)

Liz Earle - Caroline, UK

I share my cosmetics discovery with other sufferers. I have started using Liz Earle products, such as cleanser, toner, moisturisers etc, and they are wonderful and do not irritate my skin, although I know they would probably upset others. The products are natural ingredients and very good quality without being expensive. website www.lizearle.com is worth visiting - they also do little trial collections so you don't end up with bottles and bottles of stuff that makes you itch. (July 2003)

Essential Fatty Acid Cream - Tam, USA

My three year old has suffered since the day she was born with AWFUL
dry skin, and I have tried EVERYTHING and spent mucho denairo on
lotions and potions for a hopeful cure.........and finally I think I
have found it! Just the other day my sister gave me a tube of this
essential fatty acid cream from Whole Foods, and much to my surprise,
it has worked like a dream!!! My daughter's eczema and dry skin is so
bad that she BEGS for an oatmeal bath and literally CRIES at the
mention of putting lotion on, she says that it burns and she absolutely
will do ANYTHING to avoid it. Now that Auntie Pickles has turned us on
to "JASON'S EFA" from Whole Foods my sweet little sugar bear finally
has the baby skin that she should have had from the beginning. Nothing is an absolute cure, but any relief is a help Also, oil of Oregano is amazing stuff For anyone suffering from eczema or any skin disorder, "OREGANOL" is an unbelievable product. (July 2003)

Skin Cap - Nicola, Carlisle, UK

I'm a 27 year old mum and for the past 3 years I've suffered very badly with ECZEMA. It covered my whole face and body and it was extremely painful, at times I'd hate to leave the house because I knew people would be looking at it. I used 4 different types of steroid cream and twice weekly visits to the local hospital to try and keep it under control. The steroid did keep the inflammation down for so long but as anyone with Eczema will know my skin was left extremely dry and 'wrinkly'. In desperation I bought every cream recommended. I tried a homeopath, Chinese herbalist, I changed my diet, I tried acupuncture, aromatherapy and countless other 'cures', but nothing worked. I was left feeling so upset and depressed I didn't know what else to do. I was determined that there must be something out here that could help me,so after hours of searching on the 'net' I finely found my 'cure'. It's called 'skin cap' cream or sometimes called 'blue cap', I've had some amazing results using it. I no longer use steroid cream at all. I don't have to visit the hospital anymore and my skin is so soft and supple I can't believe it. The redness has nearly all gone and I've only been using it a month. It really has improved my skin condition and I am so pleased to have at long last found my 'cure'. I would recommend that anyone suffering to give it a go. I know what works for one person may not work for another, but it's worth a try. (June 2003)

Atofree Intensive Lotion - Charles, Los Angeles, USA

I recently discovered a new lotion for my son called "Atofree Intensive Lotion." We've been using it for some time now and it seems to be working pretty well for him. It's not greasy and he's managing it very well so we're finally happy something is actually working. All the best. (April 2003)

Curel anti-oxidant cream - Roger, High Point, NC, USA

5 to 6 years ago I used an antioxidant cream by Curel that stopped the itching and got rid of the redness and actually healed my skin problem (eczema from allergy) in 2 days! I had mild to severe patches (1 to 2 inc) around my chins (lower legs). Then 4 years ago Curel stopped producing this particular cream. I contacted the Curel customer service for the reason. The lady at Curel said her son also had great results with this same cream and was saddened that it wasn't available anymore. Any one out there know of this cream and what was in the cream that was different from any other creams out there. For now other Curel creams and other products don't even come close to healing my eczema any more. I take a mild antihistamine pill daily and that stops the itching and brings down the redness, etc. Also use another Curel cream, but mild results from this cream. I don't understand why a cream by Curel could stop all my eczema problems and Curel doesn't want to reactivate production on this cream. I've got to find what the ingredients were. (April 2003)

Paraffin 50/50 - Leanne, London, UK

I recently had the worst flare up of my life (I'm now 30), all over my body, and had to go into hospital. The thing that they do at St Thomas' Dermatology Department is to cover the affected areas with white paraffin (50/50). It's greasy and weird at first, and it needs to settle down after applying it, but I find it great at stopping the cracks reappearing. It makes the skin really soft and smooth, and made me feel like I was getting somewhere in the healing process. I still use it after showering, but don't need to put as much on now. Vaseline is also a good second option. Don't scratch - moisturise!!! I have to say this to myself out loud, but it helps!! All the best. Leanne. (March 2003)

Innystatin changed my life - Mirko, Vancouver, Canada

I suffered from eczema for 25 years. The Eczema was hereditary, every member of my family on my father's side had it. I tried every kind of cream and therapy, including injections under the skin. I was reconciled that I would have to live out my entire life with this ailment. One day my mother developed a bad rash on her chest. I offered her a few of my many skin creams, none of them helped. She went to the doctor, the rash was caused by a fungus and an ointment was prescribed which eliminated the rash. Eczema is a fungus isn't it? I tried the leftover 1% HC INNYSTATIN cream, and the Eczema literally went away overnight! It's been six years and the eczema has only come back a couple of times, and then quickly dispatched with the use of this cream. Unfortunately the other members of my family are to stubborn to try this treatment, you shouldn't be! God Bless.
(March 2003)

PS98 cream works - Simon, Stourbridge, UK

Hi! A guy saw my details in February's find a friend and recommended Dermanova PS98 cream! I'm so glad he did, I've come off the dreaded steroids. It's only been a few days so far but I'm more optimistic than I've ever been! Anyone that's got eczema on their face try this cream and put your steroids in the bathroom cabinet out of reach!! Anyone that's got eczema please please look for alternatives to steroids!! Try following my regime - wash with a normal but soap free wash, apply a small amount of PS98 cream then apply as much E45 (or other emollient) as u feel that u require. I have gone from suicidal to elated in less than a week and I have had eczema on my face for 3 years! (Feb 2003)

Eucerin works for me - Jennifer, USA

I would like to simply express my thanks for this awesome network of communication. A doctor just recommended Eucerin for me also. This should be a preventative measure so that I will need to use clobetasol (previously prescribed for me) less. I still worry considerably when I have an eczema recurrence on my hands (though my recent recurrences have been mild and most likely not infected). My anxiety stems from effecting others if my recurrence possibly is infected I am open and appreciative of possible insight or questions which may be available. I also hope to somehow contribute to this support site. Thank you again. (Feb 2003)

Glycol in moisturisers - Michele, New York, USA

I highly recommend Curel for everyday use, right after bathing. It is one of the only lotions out here (in the U.S.) that does not contain the dreaded propylene glycol. Even most "herbal" and "natural" lotions in health food stores have propylene glycol (usually disguised as "coconut emulsifiers".

I also recommend Eucerin creme and Aquaphor ointment. I don't know whether these brands are available in the UK.

Could UK-ers who post here let me know if their favorite creams and lotions contain propylene glycol, butylene glycol, glycolic acid or coconut emulsifiers? I would love to find out how pervasive this goo-making substance is. (February 2003)

Baby products worked for me - Rachel, London, UK

A message for adult sufferers: I have suffered with eczema since I was born. I moved to London from Australia over a year ago. The water in London contains a lot of lime and I found that it irritated my skin extremely badly, causing major eczema breakouts with I found almost unbearable. I have tried absolutely everything on the market that is supposed to help control the breakouts. Nothing worked. I thought long and hard about how I would manage it and suddenly had a thought. Babies have to be extremely careful about what they place on their delicate skins so I went straight down to my local supermarket and purchased some common baby moisturiser. It was the best thing I ever did. My skin hasn't looked better for years. It's sooooo low in irritants and I couldn't be happier with the results. I still get the occasional patches of eczema but nothing like I used to because my skin has regained a normal pH balance and seems to be much stronger and able to cope with day to day pollutants etc. It's completely under control now and another added bonus is the amount of money I am saving on creams. It's definitely worth considering if you've tried everything and still can't control your problem skin. (October 2002)

Cetraben® - Beverley, Blackpool, UK

The makers of Cetraben® Emollient Cream interviewed Beverley 38 years old. She suffers from atopic eczema and this is what she said about living with eczema: "I've had eczema for as long as I can remember and even though it's not life threatening, that doesn't make it any easier to live with. Eczema is a big part of my life, and definitely affects how I feel about myself, but you just have to learn to get on with life. The worst thing about having eczema is the way it affects my confidence. Meeting new people can be daunting because I know they will look at my red face with curiosity and maybe make comments, which obviously makes me feel very self-conscious. I'm mostly affected on my face and hands and this is particularly hard to hide. I also have it on my arms and wearing sleeveless tops makes me feel uncomfortable. It makes me jealous seeing everyone else wearing them in the summer and I can't. Having eczema prevents me from wearing make-up and this is especially hard when I'm going out in the evenings. Sometimes I wear it even though I know that the next day my eczema will be twice as bad! At least it makes me feel good for a while. I have tried so many different products over the years. If something new comes on the market I will have to try it out. I have even resorted to herbal teas, but this hasn't helped. After trying numerous creams, the majority of which have been heavy and greasy and stain my clothes, I have recently discovered an emollient called Cetraben®. Cetraben® is very light on my skin and easy to apply, unlike most other emollients. This is especially good for me because I have to use it frequently and means I don't have to keep changing my clothes because it doesn't stain. Cetraben® feels very cooling and soothing on my face and hands and certainly makes my face less red. After applying Cetraben® , I feel much more free and confident to go out and about and even doing the regular things like shopping is a much more pleasant experience. My advice is never give up on trying to help yourself. There's something out there that will help improve your skin - it's just a matter of finding it." (August 2002)

Aderma - Pamela, Woldingham, UK

I would like to endorse the wonders of Aderma cream. I had really nasty red patches on my face while on holiday in France and was prescribed this cream in a pharmacy. I was skeptical at first and insisted I wanted some medication rather than oat milk. The pharmacist was very huffy and said "Trust me Madame, I am a docteur". He went on to say he had had success with the Aderma cream with hundreds of different eczema types conditions and it was safe for the smallest babies. It cleared up my condition in a couple of days and I always now keep a tube just in case. Recently, I was pleased to see exactly the same product in a Portuguese version. There is also a cleansing milk which goes with it which saved me putting soap and water on my sore face. Wonderful! (July 2002)

Moisturising helps to stop the skin from drying out - Angie, UK

My daughter has had eczema since the age of two. Two years ago it became unbearable for her, it ended up with her having to go into hospital. She was in there for a week, I remember the first day. We had been unable to get her to go in the bath at home. The doctors said that the first thing was to get her in to the bath, a nurse and my husband took her to the bathroom, you could hear her screaming from the ward. Thankfully that was the start of a very long two year recovery. She had to wear wet wraps for about nine months, day and night,bath twice a day. If you had seen her then, and you could see her now you wouldn't believe how bad she was. She has coped, although at times when she had been in a lot of pain, she often said she wished she was dead. We keep up the greases just to stop her skin from drying out. (May 2002)

Elocon cream helped me - Terry, Orpington, Kent, UK

CON cream Made by Schering-Plough uk 0.1% MOMETASONE FUROATE. This was prescribed by my Doctor. It is the treatment that has been the most affective in alleviating my eczema. (January 2002)

Xeramance Protective Moisturiser - Karen, Basingstoke, UK

I thought I would let you know about an emollient/moisturiser which I found in Italy whilst on Holiday. It is widely used over there for patients with eczema, prescribed by dermatologists over there too. It is called Xeramance Protectice Moisturiser and you can get it perfume/fragrance free (it also comes with perfume added to it which I don't think would be relevant for our delicate skins) and is made by Boots Healthcare (Lutsia - Laboratoires Dermatologiques) - though ironically it is being discontinued in the UK as there is no real market for it. I have been told by the pharmacy at Boots the Chemist that because they no longer have skin or product advisers they were not selling the product. What a shame that it was not advertised more widely as I am sure that it would benefit a lot of people who have had no joy from the prescribed emollients. I have now got to order it either via the Internet or buy it through a pharmacy in either Italy or France. I just thought I would let you know, maybe you can pass the information on to your members and let them know about this cream in case they would like to try it... It does cost about £10.00 and possibly more with p&p so therefore it may not get the recognition it deserves. (Aug 2001)

Proderm Eczema and Dermatitis - Michael, Edinburgh, Scotland

Millie is our three year old daughter and she suffers from eczema. Our family live in Edinburgh. She has had eczema over her whole body since birth. She has had a difficult start to life but is extremely brave and copes well. She is very allergic but with medical and dietary advice we have a diet that does not exacerbate her eczema. This is a very restricted diet without any meat, dairy produce, soya, pulses or grains with the exception of rice.

Her sleeping has always been awful but at last is showing some improvement. We have had a long struggle to improve our daughter's condition using the NHS and alternative therapies. A year ago I attended a Skin Care conference in Edinburgh where I met Ivan Lythgoe from Proderm. We discussed the product and I took home some samples to try on Millie. I was intrigued at Proderm's novel method of storing an eczema treatment and went home to read of the success stories on their web site.

Proderm is very easy to use. The product is very light on the skin and our three-year-old daughter can help put it on without making a mess. The sealed unit protects the cream from contamination and its size makes the product very portable. The non-greasy aspect to Proderm has done much to improve the quality of life for all the family. The mousse moisturises the skin for far longer than anything else we have tried. The non-greasiness and excellent moisturising properties are why our family love Proderm so much. As it is non-greasy it acts as a barrier rather than attracting dust, dander and pollen onto the skin as happens with paraffin based ointments. We still use Hydrocortisone ointments but much less than before. For extra moisturising, first thing in the morning and last thing at night, we apply a layer of emulsifying ointment once the Proderm has dried. Her skin is a better texture now than when she was a new-born. We touch her arm and for the first time it feels like soft skin. When she was younger her skin was dry, broken and bleeding and we could never moisturise it adequately. Millie loves the mousse because it has helped her scalp. Much to Millie's delight she has grown "longish" hair. She used to have short hair with bald patches at the front as she used to scratch and pull her hair out particularly at night. As her skin is better moisturised the urge to itch whilst still there is greatly reduced. (July 2001)

Wheat germ to treat lips - Jenny, London. UK

I've had eczema some fifteen years and recently found my lips were becoming pigmented. A biopsy showed this was due to my eczema. Conventional medicine (read 'steroids') did not help much. Through sheer annoyance I tried wheat germ oil from Vitamin E Capsules and within two to three days my lips looked perfect! I now use wheat germ oil over all my eczema patches as a means of control. Hope this helps someone.

Emollients and vaseline - Richard, Basingstoke, UK

In my bath I use an emollient. I read in an article that it's best to use Vaseline after the bath, to help lock the moisture in, as Vaseline is petroleum based, and therefore protects the skin from drying out. This is better, than easily rubbed off water based creams. In fact I use both, water based first, followed by Vaseline; though I let the water based emollient dry in somewhat before using Vaseline. I found this to be very effective.

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Page updated: 25 June 2008