TOP SKINCARE INGREDIENTS THAT RELIEVE ECZEMA-PRONE SKIN

ECZEMA 101

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that stems from a dysfunction in the skin’s barrier at a cellular level. Those with eczema have a weakened stratum corneum, which allows moisture to escape and external irritants, allergens and microbes to penetrate the skin. This triggers an immune response, leading to:

• Dryness and flaking 
• Redness and inflammation 
• Persistent itching 
• Skin sensitivity 
• A damaged skin barrier

As a skincare professional, your focus for eczema-prone clients should be selecting high-quality, pure ingredients tailored to strengthen the skin’s barrier and reduce irritation. Choosing pharmaceutical-grade skincare for eczema is the best way to access these ingredients, maximize their relief and minimize unnecessary irritants.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS WHEN WORKING WITH ECZEMA-PRONE SKIN

Supporting clients with eczema-prone skin requires thoughtful product selection and client education. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Patch Test All New Products: Always test a small amount of any product for eczema on a client’s inner arm to avoid unexpected reactions. Remind your clients to do the same if they add products to their skincare routine. 
• Avoid Known Irritants: Stay away from drying alcohols, harsh active ingredients and any other irritants the client may have reactions to. 
• Choose Minimal Formulations: Stick to products with a targeted ingredient list to reduce the risk of irritation. 
• Customize Skincare Routines: Tailor both home care and professional treatments to preserve and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier.

TOP SOOTHING AND BARRIER-SUPPORTING INGREDIENTS

Ready to protect your client's skin from further stress? Below are some of the most effective ingredients to support a healthy, resilient skin barrier.

OAT (BETA-GLUCAN) 

Oat-derived ingredients, such as Beta-Glucan, are excellent for soothing irritation and inflammation. Beta-Glucan penetrates deeply, reducing redness while supporting collagen synthesis for healthier skin structure. 

Product Recommendation: Recovery Cream with Arnica 

CERAMIDES 

Ceramides play a key role in strengthening the skin barrier by replenishing intercellular lipids. Skincare for eczema with this ingredient helps retain moisture and protect against environmental stressors. 

Product Recommendation: Protective Skin Serum with Ceramides 

NIACINAMIDE (VITAMIN B3) 

Niacinamide boosts the skin barrier by stimulating ceramide production, reducing redness and offering anti-inflammatory benefits. It’s ideal for calming and reinforcing eczema-prone skin. 

Product Recommendation: CBD Soothing Serum with Micro-Silver

HYALURONIC ACID 

This powerful humectant can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, delivering deep hydration to combat dryness and itchiness. Hyaluronic Acid keeps the skin plump, hydrated and resilient. 

Product Recommendation: Skin Recovery Mist

ALOE VERA 

Aloe Vera is a natural anti-inflammatory with soothing and hydrating properties. It forms a protective barrier, relieving irritation while replenishing moisture. 

Product Recommendation: Comfort Cream with Aloe Vera 

GLYCERIN 

Glycerin is a strong humectant that draws moisture into the skin, improving hydration and enhancing the skin barrier’s function. It’s incredibly gentle and effective for dry, sensitive skin.

Product Recommendation: Gentle Gel Cleanser

INGREDIENTS TO AVOID FOR ECZEMA-PRONE CLIENTS

While some ingredients are beneficial for eczema-prone skin, certain ingredients should be avoided to prevent flare-ups.

SYNTHETIC FRAGRANCE 

Synthetic fragrances are a common trigger for skin irritation.

This doesn't refer to all fragrance; the therapeutic-grade essential oils or natural botanicals found in GlyMed Plus skincare for eczema may provide a pleasant aroma, but they are not synthetic. Synthetic fragrances instead refer to chemical fragrances that are added to products specifically for scent purposes.

HARSH EXFOLIANTS 

Physical scrubs and high concentrations of alpha hydroxy acids can strip the skin of its natural moisture and disrupt the delicate barrier, exacerbating dryness and irritation. 

HIGH CONCENTRATIONS OF ACTIVES 

Potent actives such as Retinol can be too harsh for compromised skin. These should only be introduced if the skin can tolerate them, and even then, very gradually.

EMPOWER YOUR CLIENTS WITH THE RIGHT SKINCARE FOR ECZEMA

For clients with eczema-prone skin, every ingredient matters. Prioritizing soothing, barrier-supporting ingredients and educating clients about intentional product use can make a huge difference. Remember to work collaboratively to ensure both their home care routines and professional treatments align with their skin’s unique needs. 

Do you feel like you have more to offer your clients but are held back by a lack of knowledge? Register as a GlyMed Plus Professional and enroll in our classes! We offer comprehensive training and education on aiding eczema-prone skin and many other skin conditions, as well as a wide range of pharmaceutical-grade products specifically formulated for them. Explore our full collection of resources to enhance your skills and better serve your clients!