Emollients
Types of emollients
Emollients are available as:
- moisturising creams, ointments, lotions and sprays
- bath oils and shower products
- soap substitutes
They are available in tubes, tubs and larger pump dispensers, and can either be bought over the counter from your pharmacy or be prescribed by your GP, nurse or health visitor.
If you or your children need to use an emollient regularly, it's a good idea to keep somein small pots or tubesat home, school or work.
Leave-on products
There are a variety of emollients thatcan be applied to the skin to help with specific problems. For example:
- occlusive emollient creams and ointments these create a film over the skinto prevent water evaporating
- humectant-containing emollients these contain additives such as urea glycerol, popylene glycol and lactic acid to attract and hold water in the top layer of skin
- antipruritic emollients these contain ingredientsto help treat Pruritus
- antiseptic emollients these contain ingredientsto prevent infection
The best emollient is the one that suits your skin condition. You should be given the opportunity to try a variety of emollients.
Soap substitutes (emollient wash products)
The everyday use of soaps, shampoos and showergelscan removethe surface layer of natural oils on your skin. This can make your skin dry and further aggravate long-term skin conditions such as eczema .
Soap substitutes are one type of emollient that can be used instead of soap for handwashing and bathing.Although soap substitutes do not producefoam like normal soap, they are just as effective at cleaning the skin.
Many of these leave-on products can also be used as a wash product.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Emollients are moisturising treatments applied directly to the skin that are often used to treat skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
Types of emollients
Emollients are available as: moisturising creams, ointments, lotions and sprays bath oils and shower products soap substitutes They are available in tubes, tubs and larger pump dispensers, and c
How they help
Emollients work by: helping skin retain water moisturising dry skin easing itching reducing scaling softening cracks protecting the skin helping other creams and ointments tobe absorbed intoth
How to use them
Soap substitutes (emollient wash products) Mix a small amount of soap substitute in the palm of your hand (about half to one teaspoonful) with a little warm water, and spread it over damp or dry skin
When to apply them
Emollients can be applied as often as recommended by the manufacturer to keep the skin well moisturised and in good condition. It's especially importantto regularly apply an emollient to your hands a
Possible reactions to emollients
Possible reactions to emollients can include: irritant reactions such asan overheating, burning sensation or stinging,usually caused by a reaction to a certain ingredient contained in the cream or
Safety advice when using emollients
if you are using paraffin-based emollients, keep away from fire, flames and cigarettes dressings and clothing soaked with the ointment can be easily ignited if you keep your emollients in a pot or
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