Indications
- Medication used as a moisturizer for dry, rough, scaly, itchy skin and minor skin irritations.
- Emollients soften and moisturize skin, reducing itching and flaking.
- Some products (e.g., zinc oxide, white petrolatum) protect against irritation.
- Dry skin caused by water loss in the upper skin layer.
- Emollients/moisturizers create an oily layer trapping water in the skin.
- Common emollients: petrolatum, lanolin, mineral oil, dimethicone.
- Humectants (glycerin, lecithin, propylene glycol) draw water into outer skin layer.
- Ingredients like urea, alpha hydroxy acids (lactic/citric/glycolic acid), allantoin soften keratin.
- Helps dead skin cells fall off, retains more water, leaving skin smoother and softer.
Dosage and administration
- Use the product as directed and follow instructions on the package.
- Some products may require priming before use.
- Check if shaking the bottle is necessary as indicated on the label.
- Apply to affected skin areas as needed or directed by label/doctor.
- Frequency of application depends on the product and skin condition.
- For dry hands, apply every time after washing throughout the day.
- For diaper rash, clean the area before use and allow to dry.
- Check with radiation personnel before using for radiation skin burns.
- Apply only to the skin, avoiding sensitive areas unless directed otherwise.
- Follow label directions for areas/types of skin where not to apply.
- Use regularly for maximum benefit, especially after bathing/showering.
- Soak the area before use for very dry skin if instructed by the doctor.
- Prolonged hot bathing/washing can worsen dry skin.
- Seek medical help if the condition persists, worsens, or if a serious problem is suspected.
Side effects
- Most emollients are safe with no side effects, but burning, stinging, redness, or irritation may occur.
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist if these effects persist or worsen.
- If prescribed, your doctor has deemed the benefits greater than the risk.
- Serious side effects are rare, but contact your doctor if unusual skin changes or signs of infection occur.
- Seek immediate medical help for serious allergic reactions, including rash, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
- Not a complete list of side effects; contact your doctor or pharmacist for other unlisted effects.
Precautions
- Inform your doctor/pharmacist of any allergies to product ingredients or other allergies.
- Inactive ingredients may cause allergic reactions; consult your pharmacist for details.
- Consult doctor/pharmacist if you have skin cuts/infections/sores before using the product.
- Some ingredients (preservatives, fragrance) may increase sun sensitivity.
- Check label for warnings; limit sun exposure, use sunscreen, and wear protective clothing.
- Report sunburn or skin issues to the doctor promptly.
- Some products may worsen acne; choose “non-comedogenic” if prone to breakouts.
- Certain products may stain/discolor clothing; consult doctor/pharmacist for details.
- Inform your doctor/dentist of all products used before surgery, including prescriptions, non-prescriptions, and herbal products.
- Notify your doctor if pregnant before using this product.