Post on 28-Dec-2015
SOAPS and SOAP SUBSTITUTES
• pH of the skin = 5.5 ( acidic); pH of water is 7 ( neutral)
• All soaps are alkaline
• Because of their alkalinity, soaps tend to remove the natural oil film of the skin while removing dirt and grime
• Application of soaps can be both useful and harmful depending on the type of skin ( oily vs dry)
SOAPS
Most commonly used agent for cleansing the skin
May have added agents, mostly antibacterials, for special action on the skin
For antibacterial action, contact time important
pH of soap is alkaline while skin is acidic
Drying effect of soaps on skin can be useful for oily conditions (acne) but harmful for dry conditions (ichthyosis)
SOAP SUBSTITUTES
Act like soaps but pH matched to skin (usually 5.5 to 7)
Because of same pH, do not dry the skin
May have added active ingredients like triclosan
Usually have special additives like lecithin that layer the skin with a protective barrier
MOISTURIZERS
Medical term for it is ‘Emollient’
First line treatment for maintaining effective barrier function
Available as different formulations such as ointments, creams, gels, lotions
Some work as both a skin moisturizer and a soap substitute
Also have some indirect anti inflammatory effect
Help to reduce the requirement of topical steroids (steroid sparing agents)
CREAM
• Both water and fat
OINTMENT
• No water; mostly fat
• Best for very dry skin
EMOLLIENT LOTION
• Liquid formulation
• Best for hairy areas
EMOLLIENTS
WHEN TO APPLY AN EMOLLIENT
• As frequently as possible (atleast 2-3 times a day)
• As liberally as possible (30 - 40gm for whole body per application)
• After bathing ( within 2-3 minutes) while the skin is still moist
HOW TO APPLY AN EMOLLIENT
Soon after a bath
Generously but gently
Do not rub vigorously
Apply in the direction of hair
CHOOSING AN EMOLLIENT
• Must be right for the skin condition
• Advise correct amounts and frequency
• Must be cosmetically acceptable
• Appropriate to weather/ environment
• Must be free of preservatives
• No fragrances
SAFETY WITH EMOLLIENT USE
Surfaces can get slippery in the bath specially for children and elderly
Careful while holding babies
Use a spoon to take out emollient from the tub to prevent contamination