Moisturisers

What is this medication for?

Moisturisers are applied to the skin to hydrate your skin and soothe the symptoms of dryness, itching, and soreness. They also improve the skin barrier function and prevent further loss of moisture.

Moisturisers are commonly available in the form of ointments, creams, and lotions. 

Ointments are the greasiest, therefore, they are most suitable for dry, thick and scaly areas as they provide long-lasting protective effect due to the higher oil content. 

Creams are less greasy than ointment and are suitable for broad application. 

Lotions have the highest water content among these 3 forms which make them easier to apply over large areas. Lotions are generally used for mild dry skin. 

The choice of moisturiser depends on what suits you and the needs of your skin. Avoid moisturisers containing ingredients that can irritate the skin e.g. sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS).

How should I take or use this medication?

• How often the moisturisers are used depends on the severity of the dry skin. This can vary from twice a day to several times a day if the dry skin is more severe. 

• Moisturisers are most effective when applied immediately after bathing or showering. It can also be used at other times.

• Apply your moisturisers in the direction of hair growth (downward strokes) to avoid blocking your hair follicles.

• Avoid applying moisturisers over areas that is clearly infected and oozy.

• For moisturisers that are contained in tubs, use a clean spoon to take out what is needed from the tub to reduce bacterial contamination of the remaining moisturiser.

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

• Inform your healthcare professional if you are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication.
• There is a fire risk with all moisturisers containing paraffin and it cannot be excluded with paraffin-free moisturisers. Do not smoke or go near naked flames because the clothing, bedding, and other fabrics that have been in contact with the moisturiser or moisturiser-treated skin can quickly ignite. Washing these fabrics at high temperature may reduce the build up of moisturiser but not totally remove it.
• Moisturiser can make the treated area slippery and lead to fall risk if applied over the soles. If walking barefoot, walk carefully if moisturisers are applied over the soles.

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately? 

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop this medication and inform your healthcare professional.

• Burning or stinging sensation that persists or worsens
• Rashes that persist or worsen
• Blocked or inflamed hair follicles (Folliculitis)
  • Applying moisturiser in the direction of hair growth helps to prevent blocked hair follicles. 

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

• The symptoms of a drug allergy, which may include one or more of the following:
  • Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
  • Difficulty in breathing
  • Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

How should I store this medication?

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children.

How do I throw away this medication safely? ​

Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin.