Emollients
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 and face because they are exposed to the elements more than any other part of your body.
Certain activities, such as swimming or gardening, can irritate the skin, so it may help to applyan emollient beforehand.
For babies, it is a good idea to protect their hands and cheeks with an emollient before meal times to stop them getting sore from food and drinks.
Emollients are best applied after washing your hands, taking a bath or showering because this is when the skin is moist. The emollient should ideally be applied to the skin at least three or four times a day.
Whether you are prone to dry skin or not, it's a good idea to use an emollient cream or ointment after washing or bathing because this is when your skin is most in need of moisture. The emollient should be applied as soon as you have patted your skin dry to ensure it is properly absorbed.
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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