My patients often battle dry skin in the winter. Should they choose a moisturizer or a skin protectant?

Since dry skin is prone to cracks, that bacteria can multiply, moisturizers play a vital role in preventing cracked skin.  Moisturizers typically contain emollients designed to replace intercellular lipids and slow water loss from the skin.  One of the best times for your patient to apply a moisturizer is just after a bath or cleansing of the perineal skin.  Skin should be dried gently by patting, instead of rubbing or brisk toweling.

Skin protectants may also be called moisture barriers.  They protect the skin from penetration by irritants and pathogens contained in stool and urine. Many products available today actually contain a combination of ingredients that clean, moisturize, and protect in one step.  Your patients can get friendly advice on selecting the product that is right for their needs by calling HDIS at 1-800-2MY-HOME® (1-800-269-4663)