Pharmacist Recommended Products for Eczema and thick skin
Thick skin and eczema are treated with keratolytics, exfoliating agents and moisturizers to maintain skin health.
-
For thick, cracked heels or rough skin, urea-based creams (like Kerasal® or PurSources® Urea 40%) are usually the most effective.
-
If your skin is dry but not severely thickened, Exfoliating creams that contain Ammonium lactate or glycolic acid creams can smooth and hydrate while gently exfoliating.
-
​For eczema-prone or sensitive skin, ceramide-rich moisturizers (CeraVe®, Vanicream®, or Eucerin®).
-
Barrier ointments (Aquaphor® or Vaseline®) are the safest and most protective. Use ointments overnight for deep repair.
-
​Always start gradually with acid-containing creams if irritation occurs, and apply moisturizers or ointments after bathing while the skin is still slightly damp to lock in hydration.
​
Find on Amazon
Urea cream 40% with salicylic acid for eczema.
Kerasal® Intensive Foot Repair
Exfoliating creams (Ammonium Lactate 12%)
Barrier ointments (Aquaphor® or Vaseline®)
Skin Texture enhancers(Glycolic acid containing products)
​​​
​Want to learn more, read product description below.
​
Keratolytics such as Urea (40%) with Salicylic Acid form a strong exfoliating combination that effectively softens thickened, callused, or cracked skin. Higher concentrations, like 40%, work best for stubborn rough areas on the feet and heels, while lower strengths (10–20%) are ideal for maintaining smooth, hydrated skin on less affected areas.
​
Exfoliating products containing Lactic Acid (Ammonium Lactate 12%), commonly found in creams like Amlactin®, act as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) that gently exfoliate dead skin while retaining moisture. They are particularly helpful for treating keratosis pilaris (“chicken skin”), rough patches, and dryness on the arms or legs.
​
Skin texture enhancers with Glycolic Acid provide gentle exfoliation to improve overall skin texture, tone, and smoothness. Found in lotions and creams such as Glytone® Exfoliating Body Lotion and Alpha Skin Care® Renewal Lotion, these products are best suited for cosmetic dryness, keratosis pilaris, or uneven skin on both the face and body.
​
When it comes to moisturizers and barriers, ceramide-containing products play a crucial role in rebuilding and strengthening the skin barrier while locking in hydration. Examples include CeraVe® Moisturizing Cream, Vanicream® Moisturizing Cream, and Eucerin® Advanced Repair Cream. These are especially useful for managing chronic dryness, preventing eczema, and providing daily care for sensitive skin.
​
Lastly, barrier ointments and occlusives like Aquaphor® Healing Ointment, Vaseline® Petroleum Jelly, and CeraVe® Healing Ointment form a protective layer that locks in moisture and promotes healing of cracks and dry patches. They are excellent choices for severe dryness, cracked heels, and eczema flare-ups—particularly when applied overnight with cotton socks or gloves to maximize absorption and repair.
​