Moisturiser application and frequency

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Apply moisturisers as often as needed to keep the skin well moisturised and in good condition (ideally, at least 3-4 times a day)²⁰
Regularly apply moisturiser to the hands and face, which are exposed to the elements²⁰
Apply moisturisers before activities that may irritate the skin (e.g. swimming) and protect babies' hands and cheeks before mealtimes²⁰
Apply moisturisers after washing hands, or taking a bath or showering; apply after patting skin dry²⁰
Ensure that moisturisers are available at nursery, pre-school or school.¹⁴

Product	Advise parents and carers:
Leave-on products	To apply directly to the skin
Leave-on products	To gently smooth (not rub) the moisturiser into the skin in the direction of hair growth; this reduces the risk of hair follicles getting blocked
Soap substitutes (for hand-washing, showering or in the bath)	To mix about a teaspoon of moisturiser into the palm of their hand with a small amount of water then spread over damp or dry skin
	To rinse and pat (do not rub) skin dry
	Moisturisers do not foam like soap
	To speak to their pharmacist if the skin stings and does not improve after rinsing; the pharmacist can suggest an alternative
With other medicines	To wait at least 30 minutes after applying the emollient before using a steroid or another topical treatment to avoid diluting the latter and reducing spreading to unaffected skin.

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