Abstract

Emollient preparations play a central role in the treatment of people with dry skin associated with conditions such as atopic eczema.1^,2 As well as being advised to apply emollient creams or ointments directly to the skin, people with atopic eczema are commonly prescribed bath emollients.3 Each year, the NHS spends over £16million on bath emollients (at an average cost of £6.29 per item).4 This represents 38% of the total cost of treatments prescribed for preschool children with eczema, matching the proportion spent on emollients for application directly to the skin.5 What clinical contribution do bath emollients make in the treatment of people with atopic eczema?