The vital role of emollients in the treatment of eczema

Abstract

Eczema is one of the most common dermatological diseases, with the number of cases in the UK rising. The use of emollients to maintain skin hydration and help restore barrier function, remains the principal treatment. Unfortunately, many health professionals, and patients themselves, fail to consider emollients an active treatment and may overlook the vital role they play in the maintenance of intact, healthy skin. Despite the overwhelming acceptance of the importance of emollient therapy, there remains a lack of good quality evidence on their effectiveness or whether one is better than another. Even when appropriate emollients are supplied, they are often used incorrectly or accompanied by conflicting/limited advice from health professionals. This article aims to explore normal skin barrier function, the disruption caused by eczema, and some of the contemporary issues surrounding emollient therapy.