Skincare for Eczema-Prone Skin

Eczema-prone skin needs products that are gentle, barrier-focused, and free from ingredients that can cause further disruption.

  • Eczema-prone skin is often characterised by a more reactive, easily disrupted barrier that loses moisture more readily and is more vulnerable to irritants and environmental triggers. This can leave the skin feeling persistently dry, uncomfortable, and sensitive to products it might otherwise tolerate.

    Eczema-prone skin can look and feel different from person to person.

  • For many, it fluctuates, with periods of relative calm and periods where the skin feels more reactive and harder to manage. What remains consistent is the need for a gentle, barrier-focused approach that works with the skin rather than against it.

    Each product in this collection has been selected with eczema-prone skin in mind, focusing on lipid replenishment, moisture retention, and soothing support.

Common triggers

Eczema-prone skin can be influenced by a range of internal and external factors, including:

  • Fragranced or harsh skincare products that disrupt the skin barrier.
  • Genetic factors – Certain genetic variations, particularly mutations in the filaggrin (FLG) gene, can impair the skin barrier. 
  • Environmental factors such as dust, pollen, changes in temperature, and humidity.
  • Stress and poor sleep, which can heighten skin reactivity and slow overnight repair.
  • Gut health imbalances and dietary factors that may influence how the skin responds.
  • Hormonal fluctuations throughout different life stages.
  • Over-cleansing or use of products that strip the skin's natural lipids.
  • Hard water and chlorine, which can aggravate barrier-compromised skin.
  • Fabric irritants worn close to the skin.

Understanding what influences your skin's reactivity helps guide a more considered and effective approach.

Your eczema-prone skin care routine

A supportive routine for eczema-prone skin focuses on protecting the barrier, restoring lipids, and keeping the routine simple. Consistency matters far more than complexity.

  • AM Routine

    Morning cleanses can often be skipped with dryer/ eczema prone skin. A splash of warm water or a gentle oil cleanse if needed. Follow with a hydrating mist to prepare the skin, then apply a barrier-supporting moisturiser while the skin is still slightly damp. If the skin is feeling particularly reactive, The Charlotte Calming Cream can be used in place of a regular moisturiser for richer, more intensive barrier support.

  • PM Routine

    In the evening, cleanse with a gentle cleanser or oil cleanse. Pat the skin dry. Apply a soothing moisturiser or calming cream to slightly damp skin to help seal in moisture overnight. A few drops of The Grace Face Oil pressed over the top can help support barrier recovery while you sleep. During periods of increased reactivity, simplify the routine to the essentials and avoid introducing new products.

Frequently asked questions

What should I look for in skincare for eczema-prone skin?

Look for fragrance-free, essential oil free formulations with simple, well-tolerated ingredient lists. Helpful ingredients include ceramides, squalane, and fatty acids to support the barrier, alongside humectants like glycerin and panthenol to help restore moisture. Avoid synthetic fragrance, high concentrations of exfoliating acids, and unnecessary additives. A simpler routine used consistently will always outperform a complicated one for reactive, eczema-prone skin.

What is a good moisturiser for eczema-prone skin?

A moisturiser for eczema-prone skin should be rich enough to support the barrier, free from common irritants, and gentle enough for daily use. The Charlotte Calming Cream has been assessed for suitability on eczema-prone skin in partnership with the Eczema Association of Australasia (EAA). It is formulated with nourishing lipids and soothing ingredients, and can be used as a daily moisturiser or a more intensive leave-on application when the skin needs extra support.

The EAA partnership represents a brand partnership and product suitability assessment only, and does not constitute medical endorsement.

What is a good cleanser for eczema-prone skin?

Look for a pH-balanced, sulphate-free cleanser that is free from synthetic fragrance and unnecessary additives. The Lily Cleanser is formulated with plant-based surfactants and soothing botanicals, cleansing effectively without causing tightness, dryness, or further barrier disruption.

Can I use a face oil on eczema-prone skin?

Yes, provided the oil is non-comedogenic and free from essential oils. The Grace Face Oil contains Hemp Seed, Rosehip, and Squalane, which help support barrier function and reduce the appearance of redness without clogging pores. It works well as a final PM step pressed over your moisturiser to help lock in hydration overnight.

Is it safe to use these products during a period of increased skin reactivity?

During periods of heightened reactivity, simplifying your routine is usually the most supportive approach. The Charlotte Calming Cream and The Isobel Moisturiser are both formulated to be gentle on reactive skin. Always patch test new products before full use. If you are experiencing severe or worsening skin reactions, please seek guidance from your GP or a medical professional.

Are these products suitable for use on babies and young children?

The Charlotte Calming Cream is formulated to be gentle enough for use on babies and young children. Always patch test prior to use. For babies or children experiencing persistent or significant skin concerns, we recommend consulting with your healthcare provider for appropriate guidance.

How long before I notice a difference?

The skin renews approximately every four to six weeks. With consistent use of a barrier-supportive routine, many people notice improved comfort and reduced reactivity within the first renewal cycle. Supporting eczema-prone skin is an ongoing process, and consistency matters more than intensity.

Can skin reactivity be connected to internal health?

Yes. Factors such as gut health, stress load, and nutritional status can all influence how reactive the skin is. A topical routine supports the skin from the outside, but exploring internal contributing factors can be a valuable part of a more complete approach.

When to see a skin clinician

If your skin is persistently reactive or not responding to a consistent barrier-focused routine, it may be worth a more thorough assessment. Skin reactivity can sometimes be connected to internal factors including gut health and hormonal changes, which Madilyn considers as part of her approach to skin health.

Madilyn and the team at The Functional Skin Studio in Brisbane work with clients experiencing complex and ongoing skin concerns, taking a functional approach to support lasting skin resilience.

If you are experiencing a severe or worsening skin reaction, please consult your GP or a dermatologist for appropriate medical care. We strongly recommend a Naturopath to support your skin health long term. 

Book a Consultation