A solution to dry, itchy skin: Let's learn everything about emollients! (Emollients)

We all have days when our skin is very dry, feels tight, and sometimes it flakes and itches. This problem occurs in many people, especially when it's cold, when washing hands frequently, or with certain medical conditions. So, at times like these, 'Emollients' are something that can help soothe our skin and help it heal. Today, we'll talk about this simply, in a way that you can understand.

Simply put, what are these emollients?

Emollients are special ingredients in skin care products that help relieve dryness, itching, and irritation. They are also called 'barrier creams'. The reason for this is that they form a protective film on the top layer of our skin. This film stops moisture from evaporating from the skin.

You may have seen doctors often recommend using emollients for people with flaky, dry skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis .

What does an emollient actually do to our skin?

A cream, lotion, or ointment containing emollients provides several key benefits to our skin.

• Helps the skin absorb the moisture it needs.
• It prevents the moisture already present in the skin from escaping.
• It softens and heals peeling and flaking skin.
• Soothes inflammation, redness, and dryness of the skin.

Are Emollient and Moisturizer the same thing?

This is something that many people are confused about. Emollient is actually one of the main ingredients in a moisturizer. The main function of an emollient is to soften the skin. However, when you buy a moisturizer, it may contain other ingredients that help the skin attract water (moisture) (such as humectants). Therefore, every emollient is part of a moisturizer, but not every moisturizer works the same.

What are the main types of emollients?

Emollients can be divided into two main types. Most good skin care products contain a combination of both.

To get the most out of an emollient, how should you apply it?

Emollients are much more effective when applied properly than when simply rubbed on. They are best absorbed when the skin is moist.

1. Don't bathe in very hot water. Take a lukewarm bath or shower. Use a mild, non-irritating cleanser.

2. Wash the skin thoroughly and pat it dry with a towel gently, without rubbing too hard.

3. Take a small amount of the emollient and warm it up with the warmth of your hands. This will help the emollient absorb into the skin more easily.

4. Apply to dry, itchy areas within 3 minutes of showering . Since the pores of the skin are open at this time, the emollient penetrates well.

5. When applying to the skin, rub gently in the direction of the hair follicles (usually downwards) . Rubbing upwards can clog hair follicles and cause small blisters (folliculitis).

How to use emollients with soap

Some soaps can dry out your skin even more. The best solution is to use an emollient as a 'soap substitute'. Or, apply an emollient after washing your hands with soap. If you wash your hands frequently, try this:

• Wash your hands with soap and lukewarm water for about 30 seconds.
• While your hands are still damp, take about a teaspoon of the emollient, lather it up, and rub it into your hands well.
• Then rinse with water and pat dry gently.
• If necessary, apply some more emollient.

Are there any things to be careful about when using emollients?

Emollients are generally very safe products, but consider these things before using a new product.

• Allergic Reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions or irritation to certain products. If you have sensitive skin, choose products that are labeled `hypoallergenic` and contain fewer ingredients.
• Acne: If you have acne, occlusive products like petroleum jelly can aggravate or cause new acne. So look for products labeled `non-comedogenic` or `non-acnegenic`.
• With Prescription Creams: If you are using a prescription cream, such as a steroid cream, be sure to follow your doctor's instructions. Typically, you should apply the prescription medication first, wait 20-30 minutes, and then apply the emollient. Be sure to ask your doctor about this.

When should I see a doctor?

If you notice this kind of change in your skin even after using an emollient, don't make decisions on your own and see your doctor.

• Non-healing wounds or cuts
• Persistent burning or itching
• A new rash
• Redness of the skin

When do you need to go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU)?

However, sometimes the condition can be serious. If you have a rash with the following symptoms, go to a hospital's emergency department (ETU) immediately.

• Throwing away the poison with a fever
• Rashes that spread throughout the body
• Water-filled blisters
• Red streaks on the skin around the wound
• If a yellow or green liquid is leaking
• If it starts suddenly and spreads rapidly
• If there is severe pain
• If it feels hot to the touch