Varicose eczema – a long-term condition also known by other names, including venous, gravitational, or stasis eczema. It shares its name with the condition varicose veins, which it commonly develops alongside, particularly in older women. In fact, this type of eczema affects as many as 70% of people over 70. People with a history of obesity or deep vein thrombosis are also more likely to develop varicose eczema. Caring for your skin is a great way to soothe and manage your eczema symptoms. The key is often to keep the skin’s moisture intact with emollients. This helps to protect the outermost layer of skin (called the stratum corneum), or skin barrier. History of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) – blood clots caused by DVT can damage the veins in your lower legs. You may need to experiment with different emollients or try a combination. For example, you may decide to use a cream during the day and an ointment at night. How to wash with emollients Your skin is the largest organ in the body, totalling around 20 square feet. It protects the rest of your body from the outside environment, while regulating body temperature and providing a waterproof barrier. But many people experience problems with their skin, with one of the most common skin complaints being dry skin.

Emollients can be applied as often as you like to keep the skin well moisturised and in good condition. Ideally, this should be done at least 3 or 4 times a day. Get the right moisturiser – choose an emollient or moisturiser that’s perfume- and additive-free as they’re typically gentler on your dry and sensitive skin. Finding the right products for very dry itchy skin makes a huge difference, whether it’s for you, your partner, or your little one, and using them regularly is just as important. If you or your children need to use an emollient regularly, it's a good idea to keep some in small pots or tubes at home, school or work. How to use emollients How to use emollients on your skin It may help to apply an emollient before and after swimming. Leave enough time for it to be absorbed into your skin before you swim.The emollient should be applied as soon as you have patted your skin dry to make sure it's properly absorbed. Skin reactions Like atopic eczema, discoid eczema is caused by extremely dry skin that is prone to react to irritants, such as soaps. However, unlike atopic eczema, it isn’t known to run in families. If your skin stings after using an emollient wash product and does not settle after rinsing, ask a pharmacist to recommend a different product. Using emollients with other skin treatments

Frequent hand washing is important but it can lead to the skin on the hands becoming sore, chapped, and dry. Certain professions can also cause hands and feet to get dry. Your skin can become dry due to the requirement to wash hands frequently, as well as exposure to chemicals and biological materials if you work in certain industries such as: The Dermexa range is a family friendly solution to help you care for all your very dry itchy skincare needs. With a Daily Emollient Cream, Body Wash and Long-Lasting Balm, these products can help you rebalance your family's skin with confidence. The “itch-scratch” cycle Apply your chosen emollient to the affected patch of skin. Don’t rub it too roughly as this could cause further irritation.

Oat

Everyday soaps, shampoos and shower gels usually dry out the skin and can make skin conditions like eczema worse. Dry skin can occur at any age, and while it doesn’t usually present a serious problem, it can be uncomfortable. This guide will explain the causes, types, and skincare options for those who are experiencing dry skin, including which dry skin products to use. It's especially important to regularly apply an emollient to your hands and face, as they're exposed to the elements more than any other part of your body.

It's a good idea to protect babies' hands and cheeks with an emollient before mealtimes to stop them getting sore from food and drink.

How to Use

Emollients are best applied after washing your hands, taking a bath or showering because this is when the skin most needs moisture.