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.

Ointments work best on very dry skin. In other cases, creams and lotions are better options.

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 soap substitutes.

Soap substitutes are substitutes for soap only, not for emollient application after cleansing.

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 fingers.

Emollients should be applied frequently and liberally, in the direction of hair growth, even when skin appears clear. An adult with eczema on both arms should expect to get through a 500g tub a month.

Topical corticosteroids

Much like emollients, the range of topical corticosteroids can appear bewildering. However:

A mildly potent topical steroid (e.g. hydrocortisone cream)
is usually sufficient for mild eczema flare-ups.

A moderately potent product such as clobetasone (Eumovate Eczema & Dermatitis 0.05% Cream) is adequate for moderate eczema.

Potent topical steroids such as betamethasone valerate 0.1% (Betnovate), hydrocortisone butyrate (Locoid) or mometasone furoate (Elocon) are reserved for severe cases. These are only available on prescription.

All topical steroids should be applied sparingly to the affected area, after the emollient has been fully absorbed. Once daily application is usually sufficient, but this can be increased to twice daily if needed. Treatment should be continued for 48 hours after the eczema has cleared, but not for longer than two weeks without seeking medical advice.