The Hyperallergenic Baby: Aqueous cream is a NO NO!

This is just a note about the use of aqueous cream on eczema. In the past aqueous cream was the most commonly prescribed cream for dry skin conditions, including eczema. However, recent studies have shown that the use of aqueous cream can cause more harm than good. This is because aqueous cream contains sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS).

Sodium Lauryl Sulphate

SLS is a detergent and surfactant found in personal cleaning products, such as soaps and shampoos known for their emulsifying properties. SLS may also be listed as sodium dodecyl sulphate, sulfuric acid, monododecyl ester, sodium salt, sodium salt sulfuric acid, aquarex me or aquarex methyl.

So what is a surfactant and an emulsifier you may ask?

Surfactant

A substance, such as a detergent, that when added to a liquid will reduce the surface tension thus increasing its wetting and spreading properties. Surfactants interact with oil (fats) and water to form droplets. This principle is used in soap to remove dirt and grease.

Emulsifier

Chemical additives that aid in the suspension of one liquid in another, e.g. water and oil.

What do we know about eczema?

We know that individuals with eczema suffer from dry skin because of the lack of ceramides in the top layers of their skin. Ceramides are the fatty cells that help form the protective barrier on the skin.

Photo source: http://phytoceramidescanada.ca/ceramides-everything-need-know/

Bringing it all together

So if surfactants and emulsifiers break down fats and oils and eczema suffers already suffer from dry skin the aqueous cream is doing the opposite of it's intended moisturising effect...

Instead, opt for creams and ointments that provide and lock in moisture.

My favourites are:

E45 Cream - suitable for adults, children and babies. E45 helps replace moisture and helps form a protective barrier http://www.e45.co.uk/our-products/junior/e45-cream/