Eczema is a common skin condition characterized by itchy, inflamed, and irritated skin. Finding the right treatment is crucial for managing eczema flare-ups and reducing symptoms. Two popular over-the-counter eczema treatments from Aveeno are the Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Cream and the Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Balm.
But what’s the difference between these two products? And which one is better for eczema relief?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare the key features of Aveeno Eczema Balm and Cream to help you decide which option may work best for your eczema symptoms.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Aveeno Eczema Balm | Aveeno Eczema Cream |
| Active Ingredient | Colloidal oatmeal | Colloidal oatmeal, dimethicone |
| Texture | Thick, rich balm | Light, velvety cream |
| Moisturization | Long-lasting, occlusive | Requires frequent reapplication |
| Skin Protection | Forms protective barrier | Absorbs quickly |
| Packaging | Flip-cap tube | Pump bottle |
| Best For | Very dry, irritated skin and eczema | Mild to moderate eczema |
| Use | Nighttime moisturizer, on hands, lips, etc. | Daytime facial moisturizer, under makeup |
Active Ingredients
The main active ingredient in both Aveeno Eczema Balm and Cream is colloidal oatmeal. Oatmeal has natural anti-inflammatory and anti-itch properties that help soothe irritated skin. It also forms a protective barrier on the skin to prevent moisture loss.
In addition to colloidal oatmeal, the Aveeno Eczema Cream contains dimethicone. Dimethicone is a silicone-based ingredient that fills in cracks and crevices on rough, damaged skin to help strengthen the skin barrier.
The balm does not contain dimethicone. Instead, it relies solely on the moisturizing and protective powers of colloidal oatmeal.
Texture And Feel
When it comes to texture, the Aveeno Eczema Balm has a thicker, richer feel compared to the lighter cream.
The balm goes on smoothly, almost like a petroleum jelly. It has an occlusive effect, coating the skin in a protective oatmeal-infused barrier. This helps seal in moisture and prevent dryness.
Meanwhile, the Eczema Cream has a lighter, more velvety texture. It spreads easily and absorbs quickly without leaving behind a greasy residue. The cream provides immediate soothing upon application but may require more frequent reapplication than the balm.
So in terms of texture and feel, the balm offers richer moisturization while the cream provides a lightweight, barely-there feel.
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Fragrance
Both Aveeno Eczema Balm and Cream are fragrance-free and hypoallergenic. This helps minimize any skin irritation, which is especially important for sensitive eczema-prone skin.
Many scented moisturizers contain synthetic fragrances and dyes that can trigger allergic reactions and eczema flares. The fragrance-free formulations of Aveeno’s eczema relief products make them suitable for daily use, even on delicate skin.
Key Differences
Some of the main differences between the Aveeno Eczema Balm and Cream include:
- Ingredients: The balm contains 100% colloidal oatmeal while the cream has added dimethicone.
- Texture: The balm has a thicker, more occlusive feel compared to the lighter cream.
- Moisturization: The balm provides long-lasting moisturization while the cream requires more frequent application.
- Protection: The balm forms a protective barrier on the skin while the cream absorbs quickly.
- Packaging: The balm comes in a tube with a flip cap and the cream uses a pump bottle dispenser.
Recommended Uses
Aveeno Eczema Balm
The Aveeno Eczema Balm is a great option for:
- Very dry, cracked, or flaky skin
- Severely irritated and inflamed eczema
- Nighttime moisturization
- Creating a protective barrier on skin
- Lips, hands, and extra dry spots
Aveeno Eczema Cream
The Aveeno Eczema Cream may be preferred for:
- Mild to moderate eczema
- Facial eczema (non-greasy)
- Daytime moisturization
- Smoothing on rough areas
- Under makeup or other skin products
The balm works well for intensive, overnight moisture while the cream can provide lightweight relief and restoration throughout the day.
How To Use Aveeno Eczema Products
Proper use is key to getting the full benefits of Aveeno’s eczema relief products. Here are some tips:
- Cleanse and gently pat skin dry before applying
- Use on clean, dry skin and avoid irritated or broken areas
- Apply a liberal amount and massage in gently
- For the balm, start with a thin layer and add more as needed
- Use the cream for face, underarms, and folds; use balm for rougher spots
- Reapply whenever skin feels dry or tight
- Use daily, or as directed by a doctor
- Pair with an eczema-friendly cleanser and sunscreen
Consistency and diligence are important when caring for eczema-prone skin. Be sure to use these products as directed and avoid any triggers that could worsen flare-ups.
Aveeno Eczema Balm Vs. Cream: Which Should You Choose?
When choosing between Aveeno Eczema Balm and Cream, consider your specific eczema symptoms and skin needs:
- For severely dry, scaly, flaky skin go with the balm for intensive moisturization.
- For mild to moderate eczema, facial use, or daytime relief, try the lightweight cream.
- If you have both dry and sensitive eczema, use the balm for problem areas and the cream for your face and delicate skin.
- For children or those with very sensitive skin, opt for the fragrance-free, gentler cream formula.
- If your eczema is cracked, blistered, or requiring heavy-duty relief, reach for the thicker balm.
- For everyday management of minor eczema, the easy-to-apply cream may be your best bet.
Talk to your dermatologist if you are unsure which option is better suited for your individual eczema care needs. And always patch test new products before wide-scale use.
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Other Aveeno Eczema Products
In addition to the balm and cream, Aveeno offers a range of other eczema relief products:
- Eczema Therapy Itch Relief Balm – With pramoxine for targeted itch relief
- Baby Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Cream – Enriched with ceramides for delicate skin
- Eczema Therapy Daily Moisturizing Lotion – Fast-absorbing, non-greasy
- Anti-Itch Concentrated Lotion – Hydrocortisone for mild-to-moderate itching
- Soothing Bath Treatment – Colloidal oatmeal soak for itchy skin
Explore all of the Aveeno eczema products to build a suitable skincare regimen for managing flare-ups. Using the right combination of moisturizers, cleansers, and treatments can make a big difference in your eczema symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
For severe eczema, Aveeno Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Balm is often recommended for its intense, protective moisturization. For milder eczema, Aveeno Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Cream provides lightweight daily relief.
Aveeno Eczema Balm can be used to soothe severely dry, irritated skin caused by eczema. It provides long-lasting moisturization and forms a protective barrier on the skin.
Aveeno Baby Eczema Therapy Cream contains ceramides to help nourish and protect baby’s sensitive skin. The regular Aveeno Eczema Therapy Cream does not contain added ceramides but is still formulated to be gentle for sensitive skin.
Yes, Aveeno creams and lotions can be beneficial for eczema-prone skin. The Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Cream hydrates and soothes eczema-related itchiness and irritation. The Daily Moisturizing Lotion provides lightweight, non-greasy moisture.
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The Bottom Line
While both products can help replenish moisture and repair the skin barrier, Aveeno Eczema Balm and Aveeno Eczema Cream have distinct strengths based on their ingredients, texture, and protective qualities.
Choose Aveeno Eczema Balm for extremely dry, scaly skin needing heavy-duty moisturization. Opt for Aveeno Eczema Cream for milder cases or daytime facial use.
Be diligent with proper moisturizing and avoiding triggers. And for severe eczema or help choosing the best option, consult your dermatologist. With the right Aveeno eczema relief product, you can successfully manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups.