What Are Emollients? What Are Emollients Used For?

Emollients, or moisturizers help keep the skin dry by reducing water loss from the epidermis - the outer layer of skin. Emollients keep the skin moist and supple by providing a protective film. For patients with extremely dry skin, such as those with eczema or psoriasis, emollients are an essential part of their daily skin care.


Emollients are found in many skin and beauty applications, such as lipstick, lotions, and a wide range of cosmetic products.


An emollient is a humectant, lubricant and occluder. Occlusion provides a layer of oil on the skin's surface, thus slowing down water loss. A humectant enhances the surface of the skin's capacity to hold water. A lubricant reduces friction when anything rubs against the skin.


This triple function helps skin cells on the surface of the skin to repair.


Emollients can usually be applied at will, i.e. as often as the patient requires.
Different types of emollients
Emollients vary according to their oil (lipid) to water ratio. In lotions the lipid content is low, and high in ointments (medium in creams). Emollients with high lipid contents are greasier and stickier - they also make the skin shinier.


Soap substitutes - aqueous creams or emulsifying ointments are good alternatives for hand and bath soaps, because they don't strip the skin of its surface layer, like most ordinary soaps do. In fact, many people use aqueous creams instead of shaving foam.


Some aqueous creams may cause stinging. If this does not settle down, see a pharmacist or your doctor and ask for an alternative product.


Emollient bath additives - they are added to bathwater to help prevent loss of moisture from the skin. Emollient bath additives can make the bathtub slippery, so be extremely careful when you get in and out. A non-stick mat might help.


For children who are at risk of developing infected eczema, bath oils with an antiseptic may offer protection. Use them occasionally, not often.


Read the recommended amount that should be used. A high concentration may cause skin irritation.


Emollient creams and ointments - although they are less greasy than ointments, they might sting after the first application, especially if the skin is very dry. In the majority of cases symptoms settle down within a few days. If the stinging persists, see a qualified pharmacist or doctor. Some preservatives can cause persistent stinging in susceptible individuals.


What type of emollient you use will depend on how dry your skin is, and where you want to apply it.


Emollients can come in bottles, large pump dispensers, tubes, tubs and jars. They are mainly OTC (over-the-counter, no prescription required) products, but may also be prescribed.


Patients with psoriasis or eczema, examples of extremely dry skin conditions, will generally have to apply emollients more frequently. They may benefit more from medicated emollients which help prevent flare-ups, inflammation and infection.


According to the NHS (National Health Service), UK, these products are most effective if applied after washing or bathing - when the skin requires moisturization the most.


Sources: us archives, NHS (National Health Service), UK.