eczema

[ykw]

can i know the rationale of applying topical steroids before moisturizer in eczema? tq

[Nik]

I always thought emollients were applied first and then a corticosteroid after a few minutes. However so long as there is a gap between applying both I think either strategy can be used.

[LeftArm]

I thought the corticosteroid should be applied first as the emollient will act as a barrier cream?

[ykw]

from various sources, the steroid should be applied first before the moisturizer. just wonder why...

[Shwampa]

The steroid ingredient is a medicine that needs to penetrate the skin and interact with the appropriate receptors while emollients are usually made of fat that works as a block to reduce loss of natural moisture from the skin, so for better absorption you apply your steroid first..

[minisini]

I thought it was the other way round you apply a moisturiser to improve penetration of the steroid into the skin....