While trying to find the best moisturizer for my skin, I began researching the different types of moisturizers/creams/lotions/oils, etc.. out there. And I was surprised at what I found. I broke it all down simply an easy-to-understand manner while providing examples relevant to EB skin.
Categories of skin moisturizers
Occlusives- seals in hydration by providing a barrier on the skin
Pros: Provides a barrier on the skin, preventing moisture from getting in; can be smoothing; protects against bodily fluids
Cons: It can clog skin pores; it can increase skin breakdown because it prevents moisture from leaving the skin; and it can be hard to clean off the skin
Examples: Zinc Oxide, Desitin, Lanolin, Vaseline, Aquaphor, Coconut Oil
Emollients- They fill in the gaps in the skin with oils and lipids
Pros: prevents water loss by locking in moisture when applied to wet skin; softens and soothes the skin
Cons: It can clog pores and can cause an allergic reaction in some people
Examples: Plant-based oils such as olive, jojoba, sunflower, rosehip, marula, as well as beeswax and shea butter
Humectants- attract and bind water to the skin to hydrate it
Pros: Helps skin retain moisture
Cons: can aggravate dryness in areas with low humidity
Examples: Glycerin, Aloe Vera, Manuka Honey, and products containing hyaluronic acid.
There are other products out there I didn’t list, and many of the things I did list, can be both an occlusive and emollient or an emollient and a humectant.
I encourage others with EB to do their own research on all the different types of ointments out there. You might be surprised by what you may learn about the products you are currently using or find something that would be even better for your skin/wounds!!
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