The Moisturiser That Was Out To Get Me...

Aqueous cream was one of the first ever moisturisers that the doctors prescribed to me when I was diagnosed with eczema.  It was recommended that I apply the cream generously to the affected areas whenever possible, as well as use in the shower to wash with – opposed to a fragranced shower gel.  For at least two years I followed these instructions, never once doubting my doctors – their job is to make me better, right?  However, when my skin took a turn for the worst once again, despite me applying the cream whenever necessary, I decided that it was definitely time for a change.   Eventually, I was prescribed diprobase cream – which only up until very recently, was my 100% go to whenever my skin is feeling irritated and itchy.

Having done my research, I have since come to the realisation that this “moisturiser” does not seem to be all that it is cut out to be.  For many years it has been reported that sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), a known skin irritant to people of all skin sensitivities, (eczema or not) is in fact one of ingredients in aqueous cream.

I repeat –

 THE CREAM THAT THE DOCTORS PRESCRIBED TO ME TO HELP CLEAR ME OF MY ECZEMA FOR OVER TWO YEARS CONTAINED SODIUM LAURYL SULPHATE - A KNOWN SKIN IRRITANT! 

SLS causes damage to the skin barrier, meaning that the skin is more vulnerable to irritation and infection after long term use.  The National Eczema Society has since reported that aqueous cream should in so circumstances be used as a leave on emollient, and if it must be used at all, as a substitute to bathing lotions whilst showering.  Provided that the emollient is being washed off, it can’t really do any harm as it’s only in contact to the skin for a short period of time.

Just the other week, I revisited my local GP and was introduced to a new skin moisturiser called Cetraben.  In just a matter of days I could feel that my skin was already a lot softer.  The cream is really thick, but when applied to the skin it doesn’t leave a greasy feeling unlike all of the other creams I’ve tried – which means that I will no longer leave greasy marks wherever I sit/lean.. Hallelujah!

This last week my skin is beginning to become irritated again, this may or may not have something to do with my inability to resist the itch… (Oops)!  However I am hoping that if I up my dosage of antihistamines, that my symptoms may calm in the next couple of days.  If not, I'm sure I’ll keep you posted on any other remedies that may come into place.