What are emollients?

Emollients are moisturising treatments applied directly to the skin to reduce water loss and cover it with a protective film.

Why do we need to use emollients?

Emollients are essential in the management of dry skin conditions as they reduce the water loss from the epidermis, which is the top layer of skin. They help to maintain the elasticity and flexibility of the skin which prevents the skin from cracking. Emollients soothe, smooth and rehydrate (add moisture) the skin but as the effect is short lived they need to be applied frequently and always in the direction of any hair growth. Ideally they should be applied at least twice a day and more if possible.

Which emollient should I choose?

Creams are easier to spread on the skin as the oil component has been emulsified into a water base.

For example aqueous cream, E45, Lipobase, Oilatum

Ointments contain a mixture of oily substances. The more oil the preparation contains the better the emollient effect on the skin. These may be better used overnight:

  • Epaderm, White soft paraffin, Emulsifying ointment
  • Urea is a hydrating agent used in the treatment of dry scaling skin conditions. It can cause stinging in some patients in which case it can be diluted using Aqueous cream.
  • Balneum (5% urea), Eucerin (10% urea), Calmurid (10% urea also contains 5% lactic acid which may cause stinging in some patients), Flexitol (25% urea)

Adverse reactions to emollients

Some emollients may cause the skin to become sensitive – wool fat e.g. Lanolin, preservatives e.g. Chlorocresol and fragrances can cause reactions. Stop using the emollient immediately if this should happen.

Arachis oil is found in Oilatum and Hydromol cream and should be avoided by anyone allergic to peanuts. Very occlusive moisturisers can block the hair follicles and cause Folliculitis. Changing to a less occlusive moisturiser (less greasy) will usually resolve the problem.

Take care
  • When using bath emollients/oils use a bath mat to prevent slipping.
  • When using oil/grease based moisturisers e.g. white soft paraffin avoid contact with naked flames or smoking as the oils are very volatile.
  • Change or launder clothing and bedding frequently as the grease soaks into the fabrics and they potentially become a fire hazard.
  • When using an emollient on your feet do not let any cream go between your toes as this could cause maceration in the web spaces.
  • Gently rub in the emollient until it disappears, avoid leaving it on the skin surface. Important The podiatrist cannot recommend or suggest the use of a particular emollient.

Please seek further advice from a Pharmacist or your GP. Visit www.nhs.uk for more information. People who access our services are welcome to talk to the Team Manager if they are experiencing any problems with their care.

Contact the service

Podiatry Service Administration Office
Room 65
1829 Building
Countess of Chester Health Park
Liverpool Road
Chester CH2 1HJ

Telephone (01244) 385000
Office opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9.00am–12.30pm and 1.30pm–4.00pm