Raising awareness of the fire risks associated with emollients

Abstract

Emollients are widely used by thousands of people on a daily basis to help manage chronic dry skin conditions. However, evidence has been growing in the last 10 to 15 years about the fire risk caused when emollients transfer to and dry on fabric, creating a highly flammable combination that can lead to serious injury or death. This article discusses recent campaigns raising awareness among health professionals and patients about these risks.