Topical emollients

Emollients are substances that help to moisten and soften your skin.

Topical (for the skin) emollients are used to treat or prevent dry skin. Topical emollients may also be found in products that treat acne, chapped lips, diaper rash, cold sores, or other minor skin irritation.

There are many brands and forms of topical emollients available, and not all of them are included in this leaflet.

Topical emollients may also be used for reasons that are not mentioned in this medication guide.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Clean the skin where you will apply the topical emollient. It may help to apply this product when your skin is wet or damp. Follow directions on the product label.

Shake the product container if recommended on the label.

Apply a small amount of topical emollient to the affected area and rub in gently.

If you are using a stick, pad, or soap form of topical emollient, follow directions for use on the product label.

Do not use this product over a large area of skin. Do not apply a topical emollient to a deep puncture wound or severe burn without medical advice.

If your skin appears white or gray and feels soggy, you may be applying too much topical emollient or using it too often.

Some forms of topical emollient may be flammable and should not be used near high heat or open flame, or applied while you are smoking.

Store as directed away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep the bottle, tube, or other container tightly closed when not in use.

Follow all instructions on your medicine label and package. Inform each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you are using.

You should not use a topical emollient if you are allergic to it. Topical emollients will not treat or prevent a skin infection.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use topical emollients if you have:

• deep wounds or open sores;
• swelling, warmth, redness, oozing, or bleeding;
• large areas of skin irritation;
• any type of allergy; or
• if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using the topical emollient and call your doctor if you have severe burning, stinging, redness, or irritation where the product was applied.

Less serious side effects are more likely, and you may have none at all.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Since this product is used as needed, there is no daily dosing schedule. Seek medical advice if your condition does not improve after using a topical emollient.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Avoid getting topical emollients in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If this occurs, rinse with water.

Avoid exposure to sunlight or tanning beds. Some topical emollients can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight or UV rays.

It is not likely that other drugs you take by mouth or inject will affect topical emollients. However, many drugs can interact with each other. Inform each of your health care providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.