Managing Eczema: The Brick Wall & Emollients

 

Key Information

  • The Foundation of Care: Understanding and using emollients (special medical moisturisers) is the most important part of managing your eczema.
  • The "Brick Wall" Analogy:
  • Healthy Skin: Think of your skin like a solid brick wall. The cells are bricks, and the “mortar” holds everything together, locking moisture in and keeping irritants out.
  • Eczema Skin: There is not enough mortar. This creates a “leaky” barrier that lets moisture escape (causing dryness) and irritants in (causing itching).
  • The Solution: Emollients act as the missing mortar, helping to patch gaps and strengthen your skin’s natural barrier.
 

The 3 Golden Rules of Application

To use emollients effectively, follow these key rules:

  • Be Frequent & Generous:
    Apply at least twice a day, every day, from head to toe.
    Continue even when your skin is clear to prevent flare-ups.
    Apply straight after bathing or swimming.
  • Smooth, Don’t Rub:
    Smooth the moisturiser gently onto the skin in the direction of hair growth.
    Rubbing can generate heat (which worsens itching) and may block hair follicles.
  • Avoid Soap:
    Normal soaps, shower gels, and bubble baths strip natural oils from your skin.
    Use your emollient or a dedicated soap substitute instead.
 

Finding the Right Emollient

Emollients come in different forms. The “best” one is simply the one you are happy to use every day.

  • Lotions: Light and suitable for hairy areas.
  • Creams: A good all-round option.
  • Ointments: Greasier, making them ideal for very dry skin or overnight use.

Tip: When starting a new emollient, try it on a small patch of skin first.

 

What Happens Next?

Using your emollient correctly is the best way to prevent flare-ups. We may need to try a few types before finding the best option for your skin.

If a product causes irritation, please stop using it and let us know.

 

Further Information

For more information about different types of emollients, how to apply them, and possible side effects, please visit the NHS website.

 

Last reviewed: 21 March 2026
Next review due: 21 March 2029