Intended for healthcare professionals

The use of emollients in dermatology

Tom Poyner
The skin acts as a barrier to the hostile environment, protecting against irritants, stopping the entry of allergens and preventing water loss. Itchy, dry skin may reflect damage to this epidermal barrier. Causes of itchy, dry skin include atopic xerosis, ichthyosis, contact with irritants and degreasing chemicals; dryness also occurs as part of several other inflammatory dermatoses. Treatment should be aimed at preserving and restoring this epidermal barrier. Topical steroids should be used to reduce inflammation, with emollients to maintain the epidermal barrier.
Dermatology in practice 2000; 8(2): 26–27
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Dermatology in practice was previously supported by Wyeth from 2008 to 2010, by Wyeth and Serono in 2007, by Wyeth and Shire from 2005 to 2006, by Medlock Medical in 2004 and by SSL International from 2001 to 2003.

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