Self-Care for Dermatological Conditions

Eczema Management

Q: LM, a 32-year-old woman, visits the pharmacy complaining of recurring itchy, red patches behind her knees and on her elbows that began when the weather got suddenly cooler. She states that the symptoms have worsened over the past 2 weeks, especially at night, and asks for something OTC to help. She has a history of mild eczema and no other chronic health conditions. What recommendations do you have for LM?

A: LM’s symptoms are consistent with a flare of eczema, which is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory skin condition. Common triggers include weather changes, allergens, and irritants such as harsh soaps or fragrances. LM can use a fragrance-free moisturizer multiple times daily, especially after bathing, to help restore the skin barrier. Products containing ceramides or colloidal oatmeal are particularly helpful. LM can apply an OTC low-potency corticosteroid such as hydrocortisone 1% cream twice daily on the inflamed, itchy areas for up to 7 days. LM should also avoid known triggers such as harsh soaps, hot showers, wool clothing, and allergens. It is important that LM understands that moisturizers are the foundation of eczema care and should be continued even after flare symptoms subside. If her symptoms do not improve within a week or worsen, she should follow up with her health care provider.^1,2

Dry Skin

Q: BT, a 45-year-old man, approaches the counter asking for a lotion recommendation. He reports having extremely dry skin on his legs and arms, especially during the winter. He describes the skin as rough, flaky, and sometimes itchy. He currently uses a scented lotion once daily but feels it does not help. What recommendations do you have for BT?

A: Dry skin is common, especially in colder weather, and is often worsened by low humidity, hot showers, and harsh soaps. The pharmacist should recommend switching to a fragrance-free, thick emollient such as Eucerin, CeraVe, or Aquaphor, applied at least twice daily. Emphasize the importance of moisturizing immediately after bathing when the skin is still damp to trap in moisture. BT should also be advised to limit showers to less than 10 minutes, use lukewarm water, and switch to a gentle, soap-free cleanser such as Cetaphil or Vanicream. Because scented lotions may irritate or dry out the skin, fragrance-free options are best. If BT experiences persistent itching, he can try a colloidal oatmeal bath product or a low-strength topical steroid for short-term relief. Encourage him to hydrate well and monitor his skin for cracks or signs of infection.^3,4

Sunscreen

Q: KH, a 27-year-old woman, is shopping in the pharmacy and asks about sunscreen. She enjoys outdoor running and recently noticed freckles and some redness on her cheeks. She’s overwhelmed by the choices and asks what to look for in a sunscreen. What recommendations do you have for KH?

A: Explain that sun protection is essential not only to prevent sunburn but also to reduce premature aging and lower the risk of skin cancer. KH can select any product with a sun protection factor of at least 30 to protect against UV-A and UV-B rays. Because she is active outdoors, suggest a water-resistant formula. Physical or mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often less irritating, especially for sensitive skin, and provide complete blockage. Instruct her to apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 80 to 120 minutes, especially when sweating or swimming. Remind KH to protect commonly missed areas such as the ears, back of the neck, and tops of the feet. In addition, KH can use clothing for protection, such as a hat, long pants, long sleeves, and sunglasses. Inform KH that peak sun hours are between 10 am and 2 pm, when exposure should be avoided.^5,6

Acne

Q: CR, a 19-year-old college student, visits the pharmacy asking for help managing her acne. She has noticed more breakouts on her forehead and cheeks, especially with the stress of school. She has used a scrub and astringent, but they seem to make her skin redder. She wants something OTC that works. What recommendations do you have for CR?

A: Explain that acne is common and can be triggered by stress, hormones, or skin care habits. Harsh scrubs and astringents can irritate the skin and worsen acne. Recommend that CR use a gentle cleanser twice daily and consider starting an OTC treatment containing benzoyl peroxide (2.5%-5.0%) or salicylic acid (0.5%-2.0%). Benzoyl peroxide helps kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation, whereas salicylic acid exfoliates to unclog pores. CR should start gradually and use small amounts once daily. It is important to moisturize with a noncomedogenic product to prevent dryness. She should avoid picking or squeezing pimples to reduce the risk of scarring. If there is no improvement after 6 to 8 weeks, or if acne worsens, instruct CR to follow up with a dermatologist for further evaluation.^7,8

REFERENCES

1. Atopic dermatitis: self-care. American Academy of Dermatology Association. Accessed August 18, 2025. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/eczema/types/atopic-dermatitis/self-care#treatment

2. Eczema treatments. National Eczema Association. Updated May 8, 2025. Accessed August 18, 2025. https://nationaleczema.org/treatments/

3. Dry skin. Mayo Clinic. August 25, 2023. Accessed August 18, 2025. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-skin/symptoms-causes/syc-20353885

4. Dermatologists’ top tips for relieving dry skin. American Academy of Dermatology Association. Updated May 16, 2024. Accessed August 18, 2025. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/dermatologists-tips-relieve-dry-skin

5. Sunscreen: how to help protect your skin from the sun. FDA. Updated August 16, 2024. Accessed August 18, 2025. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/understanding-over-counter-medicines/sunscreen-how-help-protect-your-skin-sun

6. Sunscreen FAQs. American Academy of Dermatology Association. Updated February 11, 2025. Accessed August 18, 2025. https://www.aad.org/media/stats-sunscreen

7. Acne: diagnosis and treatment. American Academy of Dermatology Association. Updated June 19, 2024. Accessed August 18, 2025. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/derm-treat/treat

8. Acne. Mayo Clinic. July 20, 2024. Accessed August 18, 2025. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20368048