Feb
9
Emollients – How and Why
Filed Under Eczema
How do emollients work?
Emollients are made up of water, oils, fats, waxes often containing one or more of the following active ingredients:
- Liquid paraffin
- White soft paraffin
- Emulsifying ointment
They work by providing an oily layer over the surface of the skin, trapping water underneath the oily layer thus preventing evaporation and rehydrating the skin. This leads to a reduction in the penetration of irritants and allergens, soothes irritated and itchy skin and crucially avoid the use of soap products as the emollients themselves have cleansing properties.
A number of formulations are available and where possible, they should be fragrance-free.
Creams
Emollient creams contain a mixture of oils and water and feel cool on the skin. They soften and rehydrate the skin. A pump dispenser is better to avoid the possibility of contamination.
Lotions
They contain more water than creams and are especially useful for covering large areas of the body. They keep the skin soft and supple.
Soap substitutes
People wth eczema should avoid using soap as it is very drying to the skin and can cause flare-ups. It is recommended that you use a soap substitute. They do not foam like a traditional soap product but they still clean the skin.
Bath additives
They help to soothe itching, rehydrate and cleanse the skin. If possible, you should try and bathe once or twice a day for 10 to 20 minutes each time if possible. Use lukewarm water and one to three capfuls of the additive. Afterwards, the skin should be patted dry and not rubbed, followed by an application of emollient cream or lotion. Normal bubble baths should be avoided.
Wash gels
They offer the same benefits as bath additives but, since they require a shorter contact time with the skin, they can be used in the shower.
Emollients should be stroked onto the skin in the direction of the hair growth but never rubbed and should be applied liberally (250-500g per week is not unusual). They should also be applied to all parts of the body and not just the affected areas.
- Apply emollient cream after a bath with additives
- Warm emollient cream in the hands before applying
- Apply extra amounts in severe or cold weather
- Apply frequently – ideally three or four times a day
- Continue to use emollients even when the eczema has improved
Mail this post| 2.5 |
Comments
Leave a Reply