Using emollients

While using emollient products may seem straightforward, there are various counselling tips that pharmacy staff can pass on to help customers get the most out of their treatments: 

• Customers may prefer to apply ointments at night. Lotions contain more water than fat, so spread easily. Creams contain more fat but are less greasy than ointments
• Several products may be needed for different parts of the body or during flare-ups and periods of remission
• Bath additives and shower products are popular, but ointments can also be dissolved in hot water to make a soap substitute
• If the emollient comes in a tub, a clean spoon or spatula should be used to scoop it out. This minimises the risk of contamination from using fingers
• Emollients should be applied frequently and liberally, in the direction of hair growth. An adult with eczema should expect to get through a 500g tub a week. Customers may also want to purchase smaller tubes and/or pots that they can take with them to re-apply during the day 
• Customers should be warned that emollient residue on clothing, bedding, dressings and other fabrics can increase the risk of fire. They should avoid smoking and keep away from naked flames
• Emollient washes can make bath and shower surfaces slippery, increasing the risk of slipping or falling. Advise your customers to take extra care when getting in and out of the bath or shower and to use a non-slip bath or shower mat as appropriate.