They are used to reverse dryness and scaling, fine lines and wrinkles, andirritant contact dermatitis.
Emollients are especially useful in managing eczema, psoriasis, and ichthyosis.
When the stratum corneum loses moisture it loses elasticity and the skin appears cracked and scaly.
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There are a number of things that cause dry skin, namely the environment.
Dry skin is more common during winter.
It’s important to maintain proper hygiene, but over-washing can really dry out the skin.
The combination of hot water and soap strips the skin of its natural oil.
Unless an emollient is applied right after washing, the skin becomes even drier than it should be.
Certain laundry detergents can also remove that important layer of oil from the skin.
Scaly skin takes place if skin cells detach from the surface of the stratum corneum.
Hot water might feel good, but warm water is much better for the skin.
Use a mild soap or a body wash that has the same pH as skin, like Phisoderm.
Moisturizers and emollients contain occlusives and humectants.
Humectants increase the amount of water the stratum corneum can hold.
Between occlusives and humectants, there is no “better” option.
It’s solely based on preference.
Occlusive emollients are made of oils mixed with water to create a lotion of cream.
These include bath oils, lotions, creams, and ointments.
Different occlusive emollients are better suited for different parts of the body.
Creams, which are thicker, are better for very dry areas.
Ointments are best suited for the driest areas, but they tend to be very greasy.
Sorbolene cream is an effective all-around moisturizer that isn’t greasy and can be found at the drugstore.
Humectant emollients add water to the stratum corneum.
Examples include glycerine, urea, andalpha hydroxy acids(AHAs), like lactic and glycolic acid.
However, urea and AHAs are slightly acidic and can sting when applied to open and cracked skin.
Emollients that aretooocclusive can block hair follicles, resulting infolliculitisor boils.
Frequent use of facial moisturizers can exacerbate acne or cause a facial rash.
2016;61(3):279-87. doi:10.4103/0019-5154.182427
