Complete emollient therapy

Some cosmetic soaps and wash products can have a drying effect on the skin and may contain ingredients that are sensitisers or irritants. Patients could be prescribed a combination of emollients and emollient wash products to use as alternatives to such products¹:

Prescribing tip

Whilst pump dispensers are useful in the home they are not particularly portable. To encourage patients to apply their emollient away from home (at school or at work for example), you can prescribe some smaller packs or tubes.

For moisturising – ointments, creams, lotions or gels
As a soap substitute – creams
For use in the bath or shower – emollient bath and/or shower additives

Ointments are the most effective preparation, however can be greasy so your patients may prefer to use them at night. Creams absorb more easily and are therefore a good option for daily moisturising. Lotions and gels provide a thinner layer of protection but may be useful on hairy areas of the body.

Choosing the right emollient » « Prescribing emollients

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