Emollients are the mainstay of eczema management and a huge array are available over the counter and on prescription. But how do they differ?

1. Plain emollients contain no active ingredients and are the most widely used (e.g. emulsifying ointment).

2. Colloidal oatmeal is often included for its anti-itch, moisturising, cleansing and protective properties.

3. Urea is included in some products for its softening and hydrating properties, so is particularly useful if the skin is dry and scaly.

4. Antiseptics (e.g. benzalkonium chloride) are only really recommended if an infection is present or is a frequent problem for the individual.

5. Lanolin penetrates deep into the skin so is helpful for dry, cracked skin. However, it can cause allergies so is not suitable for everyone. 

6. Lauromacrogols have a local anaesthetic effect and can help soothe the skin by reducing itching.

Personal preference is key with treatment because the correct emollient for someone is the one they will use. This means that branded products are usually prescribed rather than generic, and a person may need to try several products before settling on those that work best for them.

Did you know?

Eczema comes from the Greek word ‘to boil’ and is used to describe red, dry, itchy skin.