Use of an Eczema Moisturizer or Cream Provides Immediate, Sustained Itch Relief in Eczema-Prone Individuals

August 2026 | Volume 25 | Issue 8 | 737 | Copyright © August 2026


Published online July 29, 2026

Thu Q. Nguyen PhDa, Sindhu Garimella MSa, Christine Emesiani PharmDa, Matthew Meckfessel PhDa

aGalderma Laboratories, LP, Fort Worth, TX

Abstract
Background: Eczema is a prevalent, chronic skin condition that affects up to 10% of adults globally and is characterized by recurrent eczematous lesions. Intense itch is often the most burdensome symptom, leading to sleep disturbances and declining quality of life. Additionally, itch–scratch cycles perpetuate skin barrier damage and inflammation. Regular skincare with moisturizers is recognized as a cornerstone of eczema management.
Objectives: This study evaluated the itch relief and safety of Cetaphil® Restoraderm Eczema Soothing Moisturizer (eczema moisturizer) and Cetaphil® Restoraderm Eczema Rapid Relief Cream (eczema cream; Galderma Laboratories, LP, Fort Worth, TX) in individuals with eczema-prone skin.
Methods: Thirty-three participants with bilateral eczema-prone skin and mild-to-moderate itch were randomized to blinded, split-body application of the products. Evaluations over 24 hours included time to onset of itch relief, grading of itch severity (11-point itch severity numerical rating scale [NRS]), self-assessment questionnaire (4-point structured scale), and safety assessments.
Results: The eczema moisturizer and the eczema cream provided rapid itch relief after a single application, with mean times to itch relief of 38 seconds and 43 seconds, respectively. Both treatments significantly reduced itch severity from baseline by 98% to 99% at 24 hours (eczema moisturizer mean NRS: 0.03; P<0.0001; eczema cream mean NRS: 0.09; P<0.0001). Self-assessment questionnaires demonstrated high participant satisfaction with both products after a single application.
Conclusion: Single applications of eczema moisturizer and eczema cream were well tolerated, well perceived by participants, and provided rapid and sustained itch relief over 24 hours.

 

INTRODUCTION

Eczema is a prevalent, chronic skin condition with the highest burden among skin disorders globally, affecting approximately 20% of children and up to 10% of adults.1,2 The condition is characterized by recurrent eczematous lesions, xerosis, and intense itch (pruritus). Patients consistently report itch as the most bothersome symptom, with up to 85% experiencing daily pruritus that is often severe or unbearable, and which affects sleep, productivity, and quality of life (QoL).3 Chronic itch drives scratching behavior that further damages the skin barrier, perpetuates inflammation, and increases the risk of secondary infections, creating a vicious itch–scratch cycle.4

The long-term use of current therapies for eczema-related itch, such as topical corticosteroids, is limited by adverse effects and withdrawal reactions.5,6 Moreover, corticosteroids may cause skin reactions and disrupt the epidermal barrier, leading to worsening of eczema.5,6 These limitations in current management strategies, combined with the itch–scratch cycle that perpetuates skin barrier damage and inflammation,4 highlight an unmet clinical need for skincare treatments that specifically address rapid itch relief to achieve sustained symptom control. Indeed, skincare with the consistent use of well tolerated moisturizers and emollients is considered a cornerstone of eczema management and is recommended across all disease severities.5

Currently, there is a need for evidence based skincare products specifically formulated for eczema prone skin that provide rapid and sustained itch relief while supporting skin barrier restoration. Previous clinical trials demonstrated that Cetaphil Restoraderm skincare regimens decreased the number of flares and improved itch, hydration, and skin barrier function in individuals with eczema.7,8 This study is the first to evaluate the itch relief efficacy and safety of Cetaphil Restoraderm Soothing Moisturizer (eczema moisturizer) and Cetaphil Restoraderm Eczema Rapid Relief Cream (eczema cream), which are specifically formulated for eczema-prone skin.