Prescribing emollients to restore the skin barrier

Emollients are the primary treatment for eczema because they restore the defective skin barrier function, which reduces the frequency and severity of flare-ups.² Using emollients both during and between flare-ups improves the response to treatment and reduces the need for topical steroids.³

To be most effective, emollients should be applied^1,3:

Regularly - every day, between and during flare-ups, even when the skin looks clear
Frequently - applied every 3-4 hours
In sufficient volumes - Guidelines recommend 250-500g per week for a child, and 600g per week for an adult

Therefore, emollients need to be prescribed in large enough quantities to enable and encourage patients to apply sufficient volumes:

Pump dispensers are a cost-effective choice for patients and healthcare providers as they reduce the risk of cross contamination from infections.

Between 2-4 500g pump dispensers a month for children

Up to four 500g pump dispensers a month for adults

Complete emollient therapy » « Treating eczema

References:

1.NICE (2007) Atopic eczema in children. Management of atopic eczema in children from birth up to the age of 12 years. Clinical Guideline 57, London, December 2007
2.National Collaborating Centre for Women's and Children's Health. Atopic eczema in children: management of atopic eczema in children from birth up to the age of 12 years. Clinical Guideline December 2007 (NICE Eczema Full Guideline) www.nice.org.uk
3.Primary Care Dermatology Society & British Association of Dermatologists (2006) Guidelines for the management of atopic eczema. (PCDSBAD-Eczema.pdf Accessed May 2009)