Let’s begin with the basics here. For those of you who don’t know, eczema or atopic dermatitis is inflammation of the skin. I know, it sounds simple right? Unfortunately, that is not the case. Eczema is itchy, flaky, and it is usually difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of flare ups. Sounds like a great time right? Eczema is very common in children and as a child I had eczema. By the time I was graduating elementary school and off to middle school, my eczema had completely cleared up. The story doesn’t end here though. Once I hit 20 my eczema flared right back up out of no where and it has been a problem ever since.

Over the past two years I’ve been to multiple doctors and have had a few allergy tests done. Each doctor visit left me with more questions and no definite answer on what exactly was causing these flare ups.  At the end of last year, I had a flare up on my neck that was super itchy, red and lasted for over two months without any improvement. It was by far the worst flare up I have ever experienced. It completely consumed me. I didn’t want to be seen in public and would try to wear turtle necks to cover up what was going on. That only irritated the skin on my neck even more. I was super stressed over the situation which once again was only irritating my skin more. I knew there had to be a way to heal with what was happening to my skin.

After more doctors appointments and testing I finally came to terms that I was sensitive to fragrances as well as a few other chemicals that are common in cosmetics and laundry detergents. I will spare you the boring details here. After two weeks of yet another topical steroid cream, my flare up of over two months began to settle down. In order to keep my skin under control I had to completely change all of my skincare products and cosmetics. Additionally, I needed products to help keep my skin in check daily. Eczema is more likely to flare up when skin in dry, therefore moisturizing is key. This is where CeraVe comes in to play.

I’ve switched to using CeraVe products and within just two days of the switch I noticed my skin was super moisturized and more under control. I’ve completely eliminated a typical “skincare” routine. Shocking, I know. But for me, someone with super sensitive skin and eczema that flares up all the time; these changes have made such a difference.

CeraVe carries so many amazing products, they even have an eczema relief line. Here is how I’ve added my favorite CeraVe products into my daily routine:

Body Wash:
1. Eczema Body Wash 
2. Hydrating Body Wash 

Every part of my day to day routine had to be altered. Yes, even body wash. No more lavender and tropical coconut fragrances. No more dove body wash. None of that. CeraVe body washes are fragrance free. My favorite is the Hydrating Body Wash. This is my go-to everyday. On the days that I do have a flare up, or feel like my skin is feeling extra dry; I will use the Eczema Body Wash. I like to have both on hand and alternate.

Body Lotions:
1. Itch Relief Moisturizing Cream
2. Itch Relief Moisturizing Lotion 

My skin is dry 90% of the time therefore I feel the need to itch more often than not. I love a good thick moisturizer to use all over. I have found that moisturizing morning and night has made a huge difference in keeping my skin under control. I like to use the Itch Relief Moisturizing Lotion as my body lotion both morning and night. If I have a flare up or am feeling more dry (specifically in the winter months) I will use the Itch Relief Moisturizing Cream for that extra added moisture at night.

Face Cream:
Moisturizing Cream 

Yes, this is typically used as a body lotion. Before you judge, hear me out. As I mentioned I have completely eliminated my skincare routine. Serums, potions, lotions; all that is a no for me these days. The tiniest bit of the Moisturizing Cream, and again I say tiny; goes a long way. I love this as a night time face cream as well as in the morning underneath my makeup. It hasn’t caused any breakouts and is super nice on my skin. Absolutely recommend as a face cream, trust me it works.

Last but not least, my secret weapon:
Healing Ointment 

Although I am not a doctor, I am pretty sure that topical steroid creams are not great to be used long term. I do have my current prescription that I use only as needed. I really only try to use it if the flare up is really severe. However, if it is a small flare up and I catch it in time, this Healing Ointment works wonders. I had a small little patch on my eyelid the other night. I put the healing ointment on before bed and the next morning it was gone. Just like magic.

Highly recommend that anyone who is dealing with eczema or just wants healthier skin in general, gives CeraVe a try. I am absolutely not a doctor but incorporating CeraVe into my daily routine has made all the difference.