Understanding emollients and dry skin

Emollients soothe, protect and prevent dry skin. They can help relieve itching and, when skin is broken, they can even help to repair it. They're an essential part of a skincare routine for eczema or psoriasis and can sometimes reduce the need for topical corticosteroids. Most people can keep their eczema under control just by using an emollient.

There is no single cause for dry skin. Over-washing with harsh soaps, which removes the skin's natural oils, cold weather, low humidity and ageing are all common triggers. Dry skin can also be caused by certain medical conditions such as diabetes, hypothyroidism and malnutrition.

Eczema is the collective term for a group of non-contagious dry skin conditions that affect around one in five children in the UK and one in 12 adults. It primarily affects children, though symptoms can return later in life. Mild cases cause itchy, scaly skin, while severe cases can result in weeping, crusting and bleeding.

Atopic eczema can be genetic, and while the exact cause is unknown, it's thought to be linked to an overactive immune response to an irritant. Triggers can include hot or cold weather, exposure to household products, stress or a bad cold.

Eczema is not contagious, though it can be inherited.

Psoriasis is a dry skin condition that causes flaky patches of scaly skin, most commonly on the elbows, knees, scalp and lower back. It happens when skin cells multiply faster than normal, causing red, raised plaques covered with silvery scales. It affects around 2% of the UK population and is most common among adults under 35. It is not contagious.

Topical steroids are gels, creams, lotions and ointments containing corticosteroids, hormones that reduce skin inflammation and irritation. They are prescribed in different strengths for conditions including eczema and psoriasis. Side effects can include stinging, skin thinning and changes in skin colour if used over a prolonged period, and they are not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women or young children.

Emollients form a protective oily layer on the skin's surface and trap moisture, improving hydration and helping the healing process.

Always wash your hands first. To reduce the risk of infection, decant the cream from a large tub with a dessert spoon, then apply in smooth downward strokes in the direction of hair growth. Never rub.

Aquamax is very gentle and is not known to interact with topical steroid treatment. Some people using a good quality emollient have been able to avoid topical steroids altogether. Most dermatologists recommend applying steroid cream first, then waiting 30 minutes before applying emollient.

Sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) is an inexpensive chemical detergent found in many mainstream personal hygiene products. It makes skin easier to clean by breaking up natural oils but has been identified as a major skin irritant.

Parabens are chemical preservatives found in many toiletries. They can be absorbed into the body through the skin and may act as a skin irritant, as well as mimicking the hormone oestrogen.

Lipids are fats that help keep moisture in and harmful bacteria out, and are crucial to the skin's barrier function.

Scratching can make itching worse, so try patting or tapping the area instead. Avoid hot baths and heavily perfumed products, and try a cold compress. Using an emollient regularly is important for dry, flaky skin. If itching persists or affects the whole body, see your GP.

Yes, Aquamax can be used throughout all stages of pregnancy and lactation, and is gentle enough for baby skin too.

Aquamax Cream and Wash are available at pharmacies and selected chemists nationwide, and your GP can also prescribe it.

Apply regularly to manage dry skin. Keep a tub at home and carry the handy tube with you for when skin feels dry on the go. Wear gloves to wash up and use Aquamax Wash on your hands and in the shower.