World Atopic Eczema Day is near, and we want to shine a light on a condition that affects people of all ages. Also known as atopic dermatitis, eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes dryness, redness, itchiness, and irritation. Flare-ups can happen anytime, often triggered by weather changes, allergens, stress, or harsh skincare products.

Managing eczema is not just about treating flare-ups. It is about creating a daily routine that soothes, protects, and strengthens the skin barrier. In this article, we will highlight some key ways to care for eczema-prone skin, introduce an exciting new brand, Apicare from New Zealand, and share some of our team’s favourite products to help keep skin calm and hydrated.

Understanding Eczema and the Skin Barrier

The skin barrier plays a crucial role in retaining moisture and keeping irritants out. In eczema, this barrier is weakened, which makes the skin more vulnerable to dryness and inflammation. Supporting barrier repair is essential. This can include:

• Hydration: Using gentle moisturisers and emollients frequently throughout the day
• Cleansing: Opting for soap-free, fragrance-free cleansers
• Soothing: Choosing products with calming, anti-inflammatory ingredients
• Lifestyle Support: Managing triggers, maintaining a balanced diet, and supporting gut health

Introducing Apicare: Natural Relief with Healing Honey

We are excited to introduce Apicare from New Zealand, proud pioneers of natural Manuka honey skincare. Since 1993, Apicare has been producing natural skincare using MGO 500+ Manuka honey from their own beehives, combined with high-quality plant-based ingredients. Their products are designed to soothe, hydrate, and protect dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin, with a commitment to quality that has been trusted for over 31 years.

Recommended Apicare Products:

• Apicare Rescue Me All Purpose Soothing Gel
  This cooling gel combines 75% Aloe Vera with UMF 15+ Manuka Honey, vegetable glycerin, and vitamin E to soothe irritated skin. For eczema-prone skin, it helps calm itchiness and irritation, reducing the urge to scratch, which can worsen inflammation and damage the skin barrier.
  
  
• Apicare Repair Me Intensive Treatment Handcreme
  Formulated with UMF 15+ Manuka Honey, calendula oil, and aloe vera, this hand cream provides relief for dry, flaky, and problem skin. It's particularly helpful for those with eczema, dermatitis, or psoriasis-prone skin.
  
  
• Apicare Manuka Therapy 30% Honey Skin Creme
  Containing 30% UMF 16+ Manuka Honey, this cream is designed to soothe and calm dry, irritated, and flaky skin. It's formulated with anti-inflammatory botanical oils and extracts to help replace lost moisture in the skin.

Other Recommended Products for Eczema-Prone Skin:

In addition to Apicare, our team recommend several other trusted products to support eczema management:

• Activated Probiotics Biome Eczema Probiotic 30 Sachets
  Supporting gut health may benefit overall skin health and reduce inflammation from within.

• Mixa Panthenol Comfort Anti-Scratching Cream
  A gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser suitable for babies, children, and adults.

• MooGoo Pink Eczema Cream
  Contains Vitamin B12 and Nigella Sativa oil to calm and soothe irritation.

• La Roche-Posay Lipikar Baume AP+M Body Balm
  A lipid-replenishing body balm clinically proven to reduce dry, itchy skin.

• La Roche Posay Cicaplast B5 Spray For Soothing and Repair 100mL
  A soothing spray with Panthenol and Madecassoside to calm irritation and support skin barrier repair.

• Epaderm Ointment
  A rich, multipurpose emollient ideal for very dry, eczema-prone skin.

• CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
  A gentle, non-foaming cleanser that maintains the skin’s protective barrier.

• Avène XeraCalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil
  A soothing, soap-free cleansing oil to relieve dryness and discomfort.

• Avène Cicalfate+ Multi Protective Restorative Cream SPF50+ 50ml
  A restorative cream with Ceramide 3 and Vitamin B5 to soothe, repair and protect eczema-prone skin.

Practical Tips for Eczema Management

• Moisturise Frequently: Apply moisturiser several times daily, even when skin looks clear.
• Avoid Triggers: Identify and minimise exposure to irritants such as harsh detergents, wool fabrics, and sudden temperature changes.
• Gentle Cleansing: Use lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free cleansers.
• Support the Gut–Skin Axis: Some evidence suggests that maintaining a healthy gut microbiome may positively influence skin health.
• Seek Professional Advice: For persistent, severe, or infected eczema, consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Final Thoughts

Living with eczema can be challenging, but the right care routine can make a big difference. By choosing gentle, targeted products like Apicare New Zealand’s healing honey range and other pharmacist-approved solutions, you can help repair, soothe, and protect your skin, restoring comfort and confidence.