Protective creams and emollients

Abstract

The external formulations applied on the skin for the purpose of occupational protection are part of the three-step program: Pre-exposure protective (barrier) creams Mild cleaners Post-exposure skin care (emollients, moisturizers) Such formulations may provide protection only against weak irritants and cannot replace the use of other protective means such as gloves. Published examples show that some external products fail to provide the declared effectiveness and may actually aggravate irritation. It is recommended that the topical preparations within the three-step program should be tested experimentally against the relevant irritants from the occupations they are to be used in. The efficacy of the protective creams is backed up mainly by skin physiology studies with volunteers; only one RCT demonstrates benefit in a real occupational setting. Education of the workers is needed to provide optimal use and achieve the optimal protection from the three-step program.