The Role of Emollients in Eczema Management – Expert Commentary

For many living with eczema, the number of treatment options can feel overwhelming. With so many creams, washes, and prescriptions, it’s easy to get bogged down and miss the one essential element for effective eczema management. In this expert commentary, Amit Saha, Registered Pharmacist and Head of Technical & Innovation at Dermal Therapy, explains why medical moisturisers are the single most important part of any eczema care routine.

Key Takeaways

• The Mainstay: Emollients are the most important part of eczema treatment and should be used at every stage of the condition.
• More Than a Moisturiser: Emollients are medical moisturisers that hydrate the skin and create a protective barrier to prevent irritation and water loss.
• Use Enough: Many people don’t use an adequate amount of emollient for effective management, with specific weekly recommendations.

Emollients are the cornerstone of effective eczema treatment. A common issue is that many eczema sufferers become so focused on various topical and non-steroidal treatments that they inadvertently ignore one of the most important aspects of eczema management: proper emollient use.

If you follow the NICE guidelines for eczema management, the first and foremost recommended product for any stage of eczema is an emollient. An emollient is a medical moisturiser that restores hydration to the affected area and creates an invisible barrier to protect the skin from irritation and further water loss. Some specific moisturisers also contain ingredients such as Colloidal Oatmeal to soothe the skin, which may result in a reduced reliance on steroids.

Most emollients are available over-the-counter and come in various forms, including ointment, cream, and lotion. According to Amit Saha, most eczema patients don’t use an adequate amount of emollient for the effective management of their condition. The recommended amount of emollient to be used is 500g per week for older children and adults, and 250g per week for younger children (Source: National Eczema Society). 

Dermal Therapy Eczema & Dermatitis Cream

For intensive moisturisation and support for the symptoms of eczema, consider Dermal Therapy Eczema & Dermatitis Cream. It contains Colloidal Oatmeal and Aloe Vera to soothe and hydrate the skin.

• Soothing Relief: Designed to calm irritated, inflamed, and dry skin.

• Rich Hydration: Restores moisture to the skin barrier to prevent dryness and protect against irritants.

• Dermatologist Recommended: Trusted by dermatologists for its effective, gentle formula.

Find more specialist insights and expert tips in our guide: What Could Be Causing Your Facial Eczema and Irritated Skin.