What is the usual treatment for atopic eczema? Part 4

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Many people with eczema use a range of different emollients. For example, a typical routine for an 'average' person with eczema might be:

When you have a bath or shower, add an emollient oil to the bathwater or as you shower. This will give your skin a general background 'oiling'.
Use a thick emollient ointment as a soap substitute for cleaning. You can also rub this into particularly dry areas of skin.
After a bath or shower it is best to dry by patting with a towel rather than by rubbing.
Then apply a less thick emollient cream or ointment to any remaining dry areas of skin.
Between baths or showers, use an emollient cream, ointment or lotion as often as necessary.
Use an emollient ointment at bedtime.

Note: moisturisers used for eczema tend to be 'bland' and non-perfumed. Occasionally, some people become sensitised to an ingredient in a moisturiser. This can make the skin worse rather than better. If you suspect this, see your doctor for advice. There are many different types of moisturisers with various ingredients. A switch to a different type will usually sort this uncommon problem.

Warning: Bath additive emollients will coat the bath and make it greasy and slippery. It is best to use a mat and/or grab rails to reduce the risk of slipping. Warn anybody else who may use the bath that it will be slippery.