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emollients & moisturisers

Posted: Thu May 13, 2021 10:24 am
by Guest Posts
What is the difference between Emollients and Moisturisers? And is there a correct way to apply?

Re: emollients & moisturisers

Posted: Thu May 13, 2021 2:38 pm
by Dr Jane Sterling
The two words are interchangeable. ‘Emollient’ implies softening and greasing the skin and ‘Moisturiser’ implies keeping the skin hydrated. So using a greasy layer on the skin does both.
It is best to use these in two ways:
1) when washing, instead of soap, in order to avoid using a detergent, soapy cleanser which could degrease the skin
2) as a leave-on treatment, applied to dry skin. The frequency needed will depend on the severity of the skin condition. Sometimes twice a day is enough, but if the LS is very active, applying a little after every toilet visit can be very helpful.