Topical emollients

Topical emollients

Topical emollients

What are topical emollients?

Topical (skin) emollients are used to treat or prevent dry skin. Topical emollients are sometimes included in products that also treat acne, chapped lips, diaper rash, cold sores, or other minor skin irritations.

There are many brands and forms of topical emollients and not all are listed in this leaflet.

Topical emollients may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Side effects of topical emollients

Get medical help right away if you notice any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

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

Less serious side effects are more likely and you may not have any 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 can report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Follow all instructions on the label and packaging of your medicine. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies and any medications you take.

Before you take this medicine

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

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

• deep wounds or open wounds;

• swelling, warmth, redness, oozing, or bleeding;

• widespread skin irritation;

• any type of allergy; or

• if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How should I use topical emollients?

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

Cleanse the skin where you want to apply the topical emollient. It may be helpful to apply this product to wet or damp skin. Follow the instructions 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 gently.

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

Do not apply this product to large areas 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 clammy, you may be applying too much topical emollient or using it too often.

Some forms of topical emollients may be flammable and should not be used near high heat or an open flame or applied while smoking.

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

What happens if I miss a dose?

Because 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.

What happens if I overdose?

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

What should I avoid when taking topical emollients?

Avoid getting topical emollients in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If this still happens, rinse it off with water.

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

What other medications affect topical emollients?

Other medications you take orally or inject are unlikely to affect topically applied emollients. But many medications can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medications you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products.

More information

Remember to keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medicine only for the prescribed indication.